The seller’s tax does not come with the car
Once DVLA is told about the sale, the former keeper can receive a refund for complete remaining months. The new keeper must tax the car in their own name before using or keeping it on a public road, unless a specific exemption applies.
You can normally use the reference number on the green new keeper slip. Keep that document safe until your new V5C arrives.
Use the official service
The government’s vehicle tax service explains how to tax a vehicle and which reference number to use. Check the web address before entering payment details. Unofficial sites can look convincing and may add a fee for something you can do directly.
If the reference is rejected, recheck every digit and the document being used. If it still fails, do not drive the car while hoping to sort it out later.
Tax and insurance are separate
Taxing the vehicle does not insure it, and buying insurance does not tax it. You need to deal with both. You will also need a valid MOT when one is required.
Need temporary insurance? Get a quote →Quotes are provided by Ramasis Limited. Eligibility and policy terms apply. Prudent Plus Limited may receive commission if you buy, with no increase to your premium.
If the car cannot be taxed
Arrange for it to be transported to private land rather than driven. Declaring a vehicle SORN is not a way to drive it home; a SORN vehicle generally cannot be used or kept on a public road, apart from narrow exceptions such as travelling to a pre-booked test where the legal conditions are met.
Do not rely on advice from an advert or social-media post when an official DVLA service is available.