Does the Owner Need to Be Present for Vehicle Transfer?
2 Answers
Vehicle transfer can be completed without the owner being present, but the following procedures must be provided: 1. Registration certificate, vehicle license, ID card, and other documents. The buyer must provide an ID card, and if they are from another region, a residence permit or temporary residence permit is required. 2. The vehicle must first undergo an evaluation, with the evaluation fee generally ranging from 1% to 2% of the assessed vehicle value. 3. The original commercial insurance can be canceled (compulsory insurance cannot be canceled), or the insurance can be transferred to the buyer through the insurance company. Vehicle transfer refers to changing the name of the vehicle owner. When buying a used car, besides checking the vehicle condition, the next crucial step is completing the transfer procedures.
I just sold my car not long ago, so I'm quite familiar with the vehicle transfer process. Generally, you need to personally go to the DMV to handle the formalities, bringing along your ID card, vehicle license, and vehicle registration certificate. If you really can't go in person, you can prepare a power of attorney and have a friend or family member take it on your behalf. It's best to have the power of attorney notarized at a notary office to ensure its validity; otherwise, the DMV might not accept it. Remember to check the operating hours and requirements of the local DMV in advance, as some places require appointments, which can save a lot of queuing time. The transfer process is quite straightforward—as long as you have all the documents ready, it can be completed in half a day. But don’t take it lightly; if anything is missing or there are errors in the documents, you might have to make multiple trips, which can be a hassle. I recommend going in person for the safest option, as it allows for direct communication and avoids potential disputes later on. If it's an out-of-town transfer, pay attention to local nuances, and for safety, calling the DMV staff to confirm details is the most reliable approach.
