Do I Need to Drive the Car for Vehicle File Transfer?
2 Answers
Vehicle file transfer requires driving the car to the location. Vehicle file transfer refers to the process of relocating the vehicle's records from the local vehicle management office during a used car transaction, which can be transferred to a designated new registration area and owner. The vehicle file transfer procedure requires both the buyer's and seller's identification cards, vehicle license, vehicle grade certificate, and the vehicle itself to be presented at the vehicle management office. Points to note for vehicle file transfer: Vehicle file transfer applies to used cars; it is a procedure required only for used car transactions. The original owner must be present for the vehicle file transfer. Without the original owner's relevant identification documents, the file transfer procedure cannot be processed. Normally, the file bag will specify a deadline for registration. The buyer must complete the relevant procedures at the vehicle management office within this period; otherwise, they will need to return to the original registration office to reapply for the file transfer. For a vehicle applying for file transfer and ownership change, the vehicle owner must fill out an application form, present the vehicle for inspection, and submit the required proofs and documents.
Last time I bought a used car and went through the transfer process, I really had to drive to the DMV. The DMV staff required an on-site inspection of the vehicle's engine number and VIN to compare with the records, ensuring no modifications or issues. Otherwise, the transfer couldn't proceed. Don't think about cutting corners—prepare the vehicle registration certificate, ID copies, and the original owner's documents in advance. If you don't drive there, you might waste a trip, lose time, and have to reschedule. For safety, it's best to go on a weekday to avoid peak hours. When there are fewer cars, the inspection is faster, and you can also ask about the next steps. Of course, policies vary slightly by location, but in most cases, you must be present, especially for transfers or relocating out of the city. Remember to check the vehicle for any issues before driving—don't let a smoking problem slow you down.
