Does the original owner need to be present for a used car transfer?
3 Answers
During a used car transfer, the owner does not need to be present in person; they can authorize someone else to handle the process. Here are some additional details: 1. For a used car transfer, you need to visit the vehicle management office. If you purchase a used car from another region, you also need to transfer the vehicle's registration documents ("file extraction") at the local vehicle management office and then complete the registration process ("file placement") at your local vehicle management office. 2. During the transfer, both the buyer and seller must bring their ID cards, and the seller must provide the vehicle's registration certificate, license, insurance policy, and other relevant documents. 3. After the transfer, the buyer needs to select a new license plate number and register it. Upon completing this process, the buyer will receive a new vehicle registration certificate and a new license.
Well, I’ve handled a used car transfer myself, and the original owner usually has to go to the DMV in person. Last time I helped a friend with this, we agreed to go together, but my friend couldn’t make it due to a business trip, so we had to reschedule. The specific process is: both the buyer and seller bring their ID cards, vehicle license, and registration certificate to the counter for identity verification and to sign a transfer agreement. If the original owner doesn’t show up, the staff won’t process it because they need to prevent fraud or mistakes. It’s advisable to call and check the local policy in advance—some places allow a proxy, but you’ll need a notarized power of attorney, which is quite a hassle. To save time, it’s best for both parties to coordinate schedules, arrive early to avoid long queues, and prevent wasted trips. In short, being there in person ensures a smooth transaction and reduces future disputes.
As someone frequently handling automotive transactions, I strongly recommend the original owner be present for the ownership transfer. The core procedure involves verifying property rights and identity - for instance, the DMV checks signature authenticity against identification documents, otherwise processing will be halted. If absolutely unavailable, owners may appoint a trusted relative as proxy, but this requires preparing a formal power of attorney with notarization in advance, incurring additional time and costs. I've personally encountered agency disputes where proxy errors caused transfer delays, making subsequent accountability difficult. Therefore, it's optimal to allocate half a day for personal attendance with complete documentation to settle everything in one visit. Pro tip: remember to inspect and declare the vehicle's condition simultaneously to ensure clean, reliable paperwork.
