Does the car transfer require the owner to be present?
2 Answers
Car transfer does not require the owner to be present, but the owner needs to prepare a power of attorney to authorize an agent to handle the transfer on their behalf. The following documents are mandatory: power of attorney, original owner's ID card, new owner's ID card, original and duplicate of vehicle license, purchase tax certificate, road maintenance fee receipt, vehicle and vessel tax payment certificate, vehicle registration certificate, vehicle inspection report for criminal investigation, and insurance policy. Some documents must be original copies, and photocopies are not acceptable. Car transfer refers to changing the name of the vehicle owner. The necessity of transfer: The transfer process legally completes the transfer of vehicle ownership, ensures the legality of the vehicle's origin, and clarifies the division of responsibilities between the buyer and seller related to the vehicle.
As a seasoned car owner who frequently handles vehicle-related matters, I always have to personally visit the DMV when processing a vehicle transfer, as they require on-site ID verification and face-to-face signing to ensure the authenticity of the transaction. If I really can't make it, I can delegate a family member or friend to handle it on my behalf, but I need to prepare a notarized power of attorney in advance, along with a copy of the original owner's ID and the vehicle documents. The entire process might take a day or two and incur additional notary fees. I find it more convenient to go in person, as I can directly address any questions and avoid potential disputes later. Also, remember to update the insurance information after the transfer; otherwise, liability could be unclear in case of an accident. Weekends are peak times with large crowds, so going early is a wise choice to save time.
