How to Lease a Car with Bad Credit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published 13 March 2025

If you have a poor credit history, you might think leasing a car is out of reach. Many traditional leasing companies rely on strict credit scoring, making it difficult for those with County Court Judgments (CCJs), Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVAs), or even past bankruptcies to get approved. However, at CVS Ltd, we specialise in helping people lease a car despite bad credit. Our process is designed to be straightforward, fair, and accessible, so you can get on the road with confidence.

Can You Lease a Car with Bad Credit?

Yes! Unlike traditional leasing companies, we don’t rely on credit scores to make decisions. Instead, we focus on two key factors:

• Affordability – Can you comfortably manage the lease payments?
• Traceability – Can we confirm your address and employment history?

If you meet these criteria, you can lease a car with us, even if you’ve struggled with credit issues in the past.

Step-by-Step Guide to Leasing a Car with Bad Credit

Step 1: Apply Online – Quick & Commitment-Free

Our online application form is straightforward and takes just a few minutes to complete. You can choose from:

• Personal leasing – For individuals looking to lease a car.
• Joint applications – If you’re applying with someone else.
• Business leasing – For companies needing vehicles.

There’s no obligation—applying simply lets us assess whether you meet our criteria.

Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents

To process your application efficiently, we’ll ask for some key documents:

• Proof of income – Payslips or HMRC SA302 (if self-employed).
• Bank statements – To assess affordability.
• Driving licence – A full UK driving licence.
• Proof of address – A recent utility bill or similar.

Providing these promptly helps us give you a decision as quickly as possible.

Step 3: Get a Quick Decision

Once we’ve reviewed your documents, we aim to give you a decision within two working days. If approved, you’ll receive an agreement in principle and can proceed by paying your first (initial) payment.

Importantly, applying won’t affect your credit score, and you’re not obligated to continue if you change your mind.

Step 4: Tailor Your Lease to Suit You

We offer flexible lease options to fit your needs:

• Choose your vehicle – Select from a range of cars and vans.
• Adjust mileage – 12,000 miles per year is standard, but you can choose more or less.
• Customise payments – Adjust your initial payment to suit your budget.
• Select a lease term – Our standard terms are 48 months.

This flexibility ensures you get a lease agreement that works for your financial situation.

Step 5: Sign Your Lease & Secure Your Vehicle

Once you’re happy with the terms, you’ll sign your lease agreement electronically. It’s quick, simple, and paper-free.

We’ll then purchase the vehicle you’ve selected and lease it to you—whether it’s a car from our listings or a model you’ve requested.

Step 6: Arrange Delivery or Collection

When your car is ready, you can choose how to receive it:

• Collect from our office
• Free local delivery
• Nationwide delivery (available for an additional fee)

Before receiving the vehicle, you’ll need to provide proof of comprehensive insurance.

Step 7: End-of-Lease Options

At the end of your lease, you have several options:

• Return the vehicle – As long as it’s in good condition, simply hand it back.
• Extend your lease – If you love your car, you may be able to keep it longer.
• Upgrade to a new vehicle – Start a fresh lease with a different model.

Why Leasing is a Great Option for Bad Credit Customers

Leasing a car with bad credit has several advantages over trying to buy one outright:

✔ Lower Upfront Costs – Unlike car finance, which often requires a large deposit, leasing lets you drive a new vehicle with a smaller initial payment. ✔ Predictable Monthly Payments – Fixed lease payments make it easier to budget. ✔ Access to Newer Vehicles – Leasing allows you to drive a reliable, modern car rather than an older, riskier second-hand model. ✔ No Depreciation Worries – Since you’re not buying the car, you don’t have to worry about its value dropping over time.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’ve been turned down elsewhere, don’t assume leasing isn’t an option. At CVS Ltd, we specialise in helping people with bad credit get the vehicle they need. Apply today for a stress-free, transparent leasing experience tailored to you.