Can National IV Emission Standard Vehicles Still Be Transferred and Licensed?
4 Answers
Local vehicle transfers can proceed normally as long as the vehicle hasn't reached mandatory scrapping standards. However, for used cars being transferred from other regions, they must comply with the local emission standard policies to be eligible for transfer. The transfer process is as follows: 1. Go to the relevant department's transfer hall, present the required documents to obtain the "Used Motor Vehicle Sales Contract", and have both parties fill out their respective information. (Take all completed documents to process the "transfer acceptance") 2. Drive the vehicle to the transfer inspection area where staff will conduct checks, take imprints, remove license plates, and take photos. After obtaining vehicle photos, attach them to the inspection record form. (After completion, park the vehicle and proceed to the transfer hall for further procedures) 3. Take a number from the dispenser and queue with relevant documents to pay transfer fees. 4. The owner should take all related files back to the local vehicle management office where the vehicle will be registered and complete the licensing procedures.
The registration and transfer of China IV vehicles indeed depend on local policies. As an experienced driver for many years, I can tell you that in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, China IV vehicles are basically blocked because they fail to meet emission standards and will be rejected for transfer. However, in suburban areas or small cities, like counties in Guangxi, you might still get by. Last year, I helped a friend transfer a China IV car—we had to go to an inspection station first for an emission test and obtain a green label. If it exceeded the standard, all the effort would be in vain. I suggest checking the official website of the local DMV before buying or selling, and don’t believe rumors. Also, take this opportunity to consider upgrading to a more eco-friendly model. New energy vehicles now come with many subsidies, saving both money and hassle. In the long run, the policy will definitely tighten, so it’s better to prepare early than regret later.
As a newcomer to the used car market, I recently researched whether China IV emission standard vehicles can be transferred, and the findings weren't promising. Most license plate-restricted cities have already banned them. For instance, in places like Guangzhou and Shenzhen, policies state that China IV vehicles cannot be transferred there. If you're determined to buy one, you must carefully verify the vehicle's documents and confirm it meets emission standards before discussing the deal. The DMV will definitely scrutinize the transfer process, and the fees might be higher. My personal advice is not to go for the cheaper option; instead, consider China V or newer standards to avoid hassle. Additionally, some areas have transitional measures, but the information is chaotic. The safest bet is to check official mini-programs on your phone. Safe driving comes first—don't take unnecessary risks.
Having been in the used car market for a long time, I see some flexibility in the transfer issues of China IV emission standard vehicles. It really depends on your location: developed regions have more restrictions, but remote cities like Inner Mongolia and Guizhou are more lenient. In practice, buyers need to ensure the vehicle passes the emission test, otherwise the DMV won't issue plates. The transaction can be completed in a few days if everything goes smoothly; delays usually happen due to documentation issues. It's advisable for both parties to sign an agreement specifying emission responsibilities, with sellers preferably bearing the risks. As for costs, don't skimp on inspection and transfer fees - a few hundred yuan is a small matter. The long-term trend is phasing out China IV vehicles, so it's better to clear inventory quickly or help customers upgrade.
