Do You Need to Drive the Car for Vehicle File Transfer?

[RyanLee]

Vehicle file transfer requires driving the car. Below is the relevant information about vehicle file transfer: Vehicle file transfer process: Obtain a used car transaction invoice, imprint the chassis and engine numbers (if not visible to the naked eye, go to a repair shop to get an imprint copy), remove the license plate and take photos, verify the files at the archives office, inspect the vehicle, process the application at the vehicle management office, and package the vehicle management office files, known as the "major file." Documents required for vehicle file transfer: Vehicle file transfer requires the buyer's and seller's ID cards, vehicle license, vehicle grade certificate, and the vehicle itself to be present at the vehicle management office to complete the file transfer procedures. The file bag will specify a deadline for registration, usually two weeks or one month. The buyer must complete the relevant procedures at the vehicle management office within this period; otherwise, they will need to return to the original vehicle management office to re-initiate the file transfer process.

[DeGia]

Last year when I handled the vehicle transfer and file extraction, I found that the entire process didn't require driving the car to the DMV at all. I just took my ID card, vehicle registration certificate, and purchase contract, went to the local DMV to fill out forms and pay fees. After the staff verified the materials, they directly sealed the archive bag for me, and the whole process only took half an hour. Driving the car itself was completely irrelevant because the file transfer is purely a paperwork procedure, not a physical inspection of the vehicle. Many first-timers worry about needing to drive the car there, which is completely unnecessary. After receiving the file, I immediately had the new owner drive to another location for re-registration to prevent expiration. The file extraction process is quite convenient—as long as you have all the required documents, driving actually wastes time, especially in urban traffic jams. Just walk there.

[StJohnny]

As someone who frequently handles vehicle-related procedures for friends, I believe there's no need to drive the car for vehicle file transfer. The process is essentially about document handover at the DMV - you just need to submit the original owner's documents and required materials. Once approved, you can take the files. Driving there is completely unnecessary and may add parking hassles. The whole procedure is simple: queue on-site, submit documents, and wait for stamping. The car is only needed later for license plate registration. If the file transfer is delayed, it might affect plate replacement. I recommend checking the local DMV website in advance and preparing all materials to get it done in one trip. Driving wastes gasoline - better save it and complete the task early.

[RichardLee]

I have worked near the DMV for many years and understand that vehicle record transfer doesn't require the car to be present. First, prepare documents including the owner's ID, vehicle registration certificate, and application form; then personally or through an agent go to the counter for processing. After the materials are verified, you'll receive a sealed archive bag. Driving the car isn't involved in any step because the record processing is an internal procedure. After successful transfer, it's best to drive the car to the destination location for license plate registration within 30 days to avoid expiration. Remember some cities require appointments, but the entire process involves zero driving participation - efficient and hassle-free.