Legally reviewed by: Kevin Waddingham Updated:

Failing To Notify DVLA

Failing to notify the DVLA

The Drive and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) are the organisation responsible for motoring issues relating to the taxation, licensing and registration of all vehicles on the road in the UK. If you own a motor vehicle, you must notify the DVLA when you sell it, alter it or scrap it after an accident. If you do not you may face prosecution and a large fine. If you get a summons from the DVLA you should seek legal advice at your earliest convenience. At Cartwright King, we will advise you straight away, and may be able to avoid the case having to go to court.

How we can help you if accused of Failing to Notify the DVLA

Cartwright King takes a non-judgemental and pro-active approach to your case. We listen, we understand and we genuinely care about defending you against accusations of failing to notify the DVLA. Our lawyers are available to liaise with the DVLA to potentially resolve your case before it reaches court. However, in the worst case scenario we offer reliable legal advice to ensure that the best possible action is taken to help prevent prosecution.

Benefit from a free, initial telephone conversation

If you have been accused of failing to notify the DVLA once selling, altering or scrapping your car after an accident, you can benefit from a free, initial telephone call with a specialist Cartwright King Motoring Offence Lawyer to assess your options.

There’s no substitute for speaking to one of our specialist solicitors to get the right advice, and start preparing your defence.

For immediate action, contact us today for your free* initial discussion.

The discussion is completely informal and confidential, and is an opportunity for us to:

  • Get to know you
  • Understand your situation
  • Agree how you want to proceed

*Please be aware that this is a ‘get to know you’ call and no advice will be given.

Why choose Cartwright King for your defence?

Having an experienced Motoring Offence Lawyer representing you is often the difference when it comes to avoiding conviction for failing to notify the DVLA.

We listen, we understand and we genuinely care about protecting you from punishment. That’s why we offer sound, honest, reliable legal advice to ensure that you understand your rights when facing charges for failing to notify the DVLA.

Working with a specialist Cartwright King solicitor gives you the assurance of having access to legal counsel who will advise you at every stage of your case. We know that charges for driving offences can affect your day-to-day life and potentially your job.

That’s why we will do everything we can to clear you of wrongdoing or minimise any action against you.

We’re committed to defending your legal rights and protecting your driving future, ensuring that you’re treated fairly throughout your case. When you need us most, we’ll be there to offer sound, sensible legal advice and sure guidance.

We’re a trusted, resourceful Legal 500 top tier law firm with specialist solicitors that are calm under pressure, giving you defence counsel that you can count on.

We're here for you.

Frequently asked questions.

When should you notify the DVLA?

If you have written your car off in an accident, sold it on or had it seized by an insurance company, by law you must notify the DVLA of the change. It is essential to be aware that it is your responsibility to notify the DVLA, so that they can update their records. You can do this by telephone, by post, or online. Failing to do this is an offence and you can be prosecuted and risk a large fine.

Is there a defence for failing to notify the DVLA?

Although the onus is on you to notify the DVLA, they are a large organisation and do make errors. It is not uncommon for them to not update their system despite you contacting them.  If you contact Cartwright King we will liaise with the DVLA and may be able to persuade them that it is not in the public interest to prosecute you. It is important to keep a full note of all your dealings with the DVLA.

Who are the DVLA?

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is the UK enforced organisation formed in 1965 that is responsible for maintaining the database of drivers and vehicles in Great Britain. The information that they retain, helps them improve road safety, reduce vehicle related crime, support environmental initiatives and limit vehicle tax evasion.

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