
Vehicle transfer does not necessarily require the owner to be present. Below are the specific procedures for vehicle transfer: 1. Submit a relocation application: Go to the vehicle management office to submit an application for relocation, obtain a tracing number card, wait for the tracing, and specify whether it is for relocation or transfer. 2. Submit the required documents: Go to the corresponding window to submit the relocation authorization letter, the 'Motor Vehicle Transfer Application Form', the vehicle license, the vehicle plate, and other documents required by the local vehicle management office. Then pay the corresponding fees and obtain a receipt. 3. Collect the vehicle file: Three working days after submitting the plate, bring the receipt to the main office of the vehicle management office to collect the vehicle file, which includes the 'Motor Vehicle Transfer Application Form', the vehicle inspection form, the chassis number, the vehicle license, and vehicle photos. 4. Surrender the original plate and license: For vehicles that pass inspection, the original plate and license will be surrendered, and the change registration column on the license and the 'Motor Vehicle Registration Application Form' will be annotated with 'Transferred to the Vehicle Management Office of the Public Security Department (Bureau) of a certain province and city', stamped with the issuing authority's seal, and placed in the file along with the 'Motor Vehicle Transfer Notification', then handed over to the owner.

If I need to transfer the ownership of my car but cannot be present in person, it can still be handled. The first step is to prepare a power of attorney, sign it, and confirm it with a fingerprint, then find a trustworthy friend or relative to act as an agent. They should bring a copy of my ID card, the original power of attorney, and the vehicle-related documents to the local DMV for processing. The whole process is actually quite simple—I’ve helped friends with similar matters before. Remember to download the power of attorney template in advance; there are free resources online. If the power of attorney isn’t properly prepared, it might get rejected by the DMV, so it’s best to print two copies as backups. Nowadays, many places also support online appointments, so checking the DMV’s working hours in advance can save a lot of hassle and time. In short, don’t worry about not being present—preparation beforehand is the key.

Based on my experience, it is feasible to transfer vehicle ownership without the original owner being present, but a formal power of attorney is required. The agent must bring the owner's ID copy, the original power of attorney, the vehicle registration certificate, and both parties' documents to the DMV for submission. DMV staff will verify the authenticity and consistency of the documents. I've handled such cases before—if the power of attorney is not notarized, there might be additional checks or delays. Additionally, the owner should ensure the power of attorney clearly specifies the authorized scope to avoid disputes. The entire process usually takes about an hour. Afterward, the owner should confirm the transfer details with the agent and maintain smooth communication to ensure property security.

As the vehicle owner, I was unable to attend the transfer process last time due to a business trip, so I authorized my brother to handle it as my agent. We simply prepared a signed authorization letter from me, and he took my ID copy along with his own documents to the DMV. The transfer procedures were completed on the same day. This shows that the owner's absence isn't an issue as long as the power of attorney is properly prepared and the agent is reliable. Later, I received the updated vehicle certificate. The entire process involved no extra fees and was straightforward and efficient. Don't overcomplicate it, everyone.

For vehicle ownership transfer in the owner's absence, I would remind you to prioritize safety and simplicity. Ensure the power of attorney is formal, preferably notarized, to avoid future disputes; choose a trustworthy agent and bring copies of vehicle documents to prevent loss. Additionally, consult the local DMV hotline first to understand specific requirements and save time. If there's a risk of fraud, such as information leakage, remember to limit the agent's authority in the power of attorney to protect personal property. Prepare all materials one day in advance, and the entire process is generally smooth without worries.


