Question 1

What is a DVLA check?

Accepted Answer

This type of check refers to a verification process by accessing information from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) which provides essential details about a vehicle, such as vehicle tax status, MOT expiry, and current registration information. It ensures that the information provided by the seller or owner of the car matches the official records held by the DVLA, offering reassurance to potential buyers. Therefore, conducting a DVLA check is highly beneficial when buying a used vehicle to confirm its legitimacy. You can also check the registered keeper separately, but you must have reasonable cause to access this information.

Question 2

What is a car history check?

Accepted Answer

A car history check, also known as a vehicle history report or a VIN check, is a comprehensive examination of a used vehicle's past and present information. It involves accessing a database that compiles data from the DVLA but also from various sources, including Government records, insurance companies, dealerships, leasing companies and other data providers. It means you can access information about insurance write-offs, theft notices, outstanding finance, MOT history, and so much more.

Question 3

How do I find the previous owners of my car?

Accepted Answer

Under data protection laws, it simply isn't possible to access the personal details of previous vehicle owners unless you have reasonable cause to do so, such as a vehicle being involved in an accident. And the only place you can request vehicle owner information would be through the DVLA. However, through a Motorscan comprehensive vehicle history check, you'll be able to see how many owners a vehicle has had, along with a timeline showing how long each owner held the car, which can be beneficial in working out whether the vehicle is typically reliable. It may indicate reliability if previous owners have retained the car for substantial periods.

Question 4

How to make a request on your data with DVLA

Accepted Answer

Under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR), you have the right to request the personal data the DVLA holds about you as a driver. If you want to check what information they keep, you can request this by completing the DVLA Subject Access Request form and submitting it via email or post to the DVLA, which is included on the form.

Question 5

How can I check if my car is scrapped?

Accepted Answer

If you're concerned that the vehicle you purchased in good faith may have been previously scrapped or in an accident, there are avenues you can look at to try and confirm your suspicions. For example, looking at previous MOT records, contacting local scrap dealers or insurance companies may shed light. However, the easiest and quickest way would be to perform a premium full car history check, which will tell you instantly if your vehicle has previously been scrapped along with the scrappage category or involved in an accident, including details about the damage caused.

Question 6

What's the difference between a DVLA car check and a car check?

Accepted Answer

Ultimately, checking with the DVLA will give you access to basic vehicle specifications, road tax, and MOT statuses. Carrying out a car check will provide you with much more, including historical vehicle data, MOT history, outstanding finance, theft, scrapped status, plate changes, and so much more.

Question 7

Motorscan vs DVLA Car check

Accepted Answer

Motorscan partners with many institutions to bring you the most comprehensive vehicle report, including auction houses, leasing companies, Government records, insurance companies, and others. So, you can see the valuable information available by choosing a car check with a reputable company like Motorscan rather than a basic DVLA check; we've set out the differences below. And don't forget, even our free car check will give you access to additional beneficial data, including everything the DVLA holds.   Motorscan Premium Full Car Check:  Vehicle specifications Tax &amp; MOT status Theft report Outstanding finance VIN Check Running costs, including emissions ULEZ /Clean Air Zone compliant MOT and mileage history Number of keeps and keeper timeline Plate changes Ex-taxi, Police, Fire or NHS vehicle Scrapped status Imported or exported Five band valuation 30k data guarantee   DVLA Check:  Vehicle specifications Tax &amp; MOT status V5C Logbook last updated date Export marker

How to make a request on your data with DVLA

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