Does the owner need to be present for vehicle transfer and title change when selling a car?
3 Answers
Presence is not mandatory. Here are the details: Reasons: If the owner genuinely cannot be present, they can authorize an agent to handle the transfer by providing the original ID cards of both the owner (or buyer) and the agent, along with all required vehicle transfer documents. However, it is advisable for both parties to attend in person. This ensures clarity regarding liability transfer of the used vehicle and prevents potential disputes arising from the inability to verify or resolve issues due to absence during the process. Legal Basis: Article 54 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations" states that motor vehicle owners may entrust an agent to handle various motor vehicle registration matters, except for applications to reissue the motor vehicle registration certificate. In cases where the owner cannot be present due to death, overseas travel, serious illness, disability, or force majeure, an agent may apply for reissuance of the registration certificate with relevant proof. Agents handling motor vehicle registration must submit their identification and the owner's written authorization.
I recently sold my car and encountered this issue during the transfer process. If you really can't be present in person, you can actually authorize someone else to handle it for you, but nowadays many local DMVs have strict requirements. From my experience: the vehicle file extraction process can generally be handled by an agent, as long as you prepare a power of attorney, a copy of your ID card, and your signature; however, for the transfer signing process, especially when confirming vehicle details and transaction specifics, it's best for the owner to be present. If you absolutely can't make it, I recommend calling the local DMV in advance to clarify their policies, as rules may vary by region. Don't forget to prepare basic documents like the vehicle registration certificate and license, and make sure both parties have the contract ready to avoid wasting time on unnecessary trips. Last time, I had to make an extra trip because I forgot to bring the transaction invoice.
I'm quite familiar with the relevant regulations regarding vehicle transactions. When the vehicle owner is handling the transfer of vehicle records and ownership, they don't necessarily need to be present throughout the entire process, but it depends on the specific circumstances. The record transfer procedure usually allows for proxy handling with a power of attorney. However, for the final ownership transfer involving signature confirmation, it's strongly recommended that the owner appears in person. This is because DMV staff need to verify identities to prevent disputes. If a buyer or friend is assisting, they must bring the owner's original ID card and notarized power of attorney. Also, don't forget to handle the vehicle purchase tax certificate, as some regions require prior online appointment. Full proxy authorization carries risks, such as delays caused by incorrect information, so personal attendance is the safest option.
