Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
The excitement of buying a new car can quickly turn to stress when you realise you need to get it home legally and safely. Whether you’re purchasing from a dealer, private seller, or online marketplace, taking time to prepare properly can save you from fines, invalid insurance claims, or unnecessary delays on what should be a memorable journey.
1. Check the paperwork before you collect
Before collecting your vehicle, make sure all essential documents are ready and accurate. The V5C logbook should reflect correct ownership details, whilst the MOT certificate must be valid with sufficient time remaining. Your sales receipt is an important proof of purchase and protects you if questions arise later about ownership or transaction details. Government guidance on learning to drive emphasises the importance of proper documentation, and this principle extends to car purchases, where incomplete paperwork can cause problems down the line.
2. Get insurance in place
Insurance is the most critical aspect of driving your new car home, yet it’s often overlooked until the last minute. If you don’t have an existing annual policy that covers the new vehicle, one-day car insurance gives you an ideal solution to bridge this gap. This temporary cover proves valuable when buying from private sellers over weekends, collecting vehicles outside normal business hours, or when your main insurance policy doesn’t start immediately. Many buyers assume their existing insurance automatically covers new purchases, but this isn’t always the case, making short-term cover essential for legal compliance.
3. Plan your route home
Pre-planning your journey prevents unnecessary stress during your first drive in an unfamiliar vehicle. Use route planning tools to identify potential roadworks, traffic congestion, or challenging road conditions that might prove difficult whilst adjusting to new controls and handling characteristics. Consider fuel stops along the way, especially if you’re unsure about the vehicle’s fuel efficiency or current tank level. Recent data from the Association of British Insurers shows motor claims reached £11.7 billion in 2024, with the average claim rising 13% to £4.9k, highlighting how important it is to avoid unnecessary risks during vulnerable periods like first drives.
4. Take it steady on the first drive
Every vehicle handles differently, so allow time to familiarise yourself with the controls before setting off. Adjust mirrors, seats, and steering wheel position to guarantee comfort and visibility. Take note of brake sensitivity, steering response, and gear changes if driving a manual transmission. Avoid distractions like mobile phones or complex navigation systems until you’re comfortable with the vehicle’s basic operation. Start with gentle acceleration and braking to understand the car’s characteristics, building confidence gradually instead of rushing the journey home.
Successfully collecting and driving your new car home requires preparation, proper documentation, and adequate insurance coverage. When following these steps, you can change a potentially stressful experience into the enjoyable milestone it should be.
