Retail & Consumer Goods

Vehicle Dealer Regulation

Understand FCA authorisation, consumer rights, and trading standards for motor dealers.

UK-wide
Guide summary

If you sell vehicles or offer vehicle finance, you must follow consumer protection laws and may need FCA authorisation. Check vehicles are roadworthy before sale, and know the 30-day right to reject for faults. Online sales have a 14-day cooling-off period.

  • Get FCA authorisation if offering finance or brokering deals
  • Check vehicles meet roadworthiness standards before sale
  • Honour 30-day right to reject for faulty vehicles
  • Allow 14-day cooling-off period for online/phone sales
  • Register with your local authority if required
  • Follow EU block exemption rules for competition law
  • Keep pre-delivery inspection records as industry standard
On this page
UK-wide

Related guides in Vehicle Compliance

Run an MOT Testing Station

Maintain DVSA compliance, manage testers, handle inspections, and avoid disciplinary action as an MOT Authorised Examiner.

Motor dealers must comply with consumer protection law, and those offering vehicle finance need FCA authorisation. Understanding your obligations helps avoid enforcement action and builds customer trust.

Finance offerings

If you introduce customers to lenders or offer credit agreements (hire purchase, PCP, etc.), you need FCA authorisation. This includes acting as a credit broker even if you don't provide finance directly.

For the full set of duties when selling vehicles — material-information disclosure, the new-car CO2 label, FCA finance and type approval — see sell vehicles: rules for dealers and which motor trade rules apply to your business.