Does the vehicle registration require the owner to be present?
4 Answers
Vehicle registration does not require the owner to be present. Many 4S stores or other car dealers provide vehicle registration agency services, but this service requires a certain service fee, and the price is not low. You can also entrust a friend to be fully responsible, just need to sign a power of attorney. According to the regulations: to apply for registration, the owner of the motor vehicle shall fill in the application form, inspect the motor vehicle, and submit the following certificates and documents: 1. The identity certificate of the owner of the motor vehicle; 2. The certificate of origin of the motor vehicle such as the purchase invoice; 3. The certificate of conformity of the whole vehicle of the motor vehicle or the import certificate of the imported motor vehicle; 4. The certificate of payment of vehicle purchase tax or the tax exemption certificate; 5. The certificate of compulsory insurance for motor vehicle traffic accidents; 6. The certificate of payment of vehicle and vessel tax or the tax exemption certificate; 7. Other certificates and documents that shall be submitted when registering the motor vehicle as stipulated by laws and administrative regulations.
As an ordinary car owner, I'd like to share my personal experience. Last year when I bought a new car, I did visit the DMV in person for registration because on-site ID verification and document signatures were required to prevent fraud. The whole process wasn't complicated – just bring the car purchase invoice, ID card, and vehicle registration certificate, and it took about half an hour to complete. However, sometimes when there's a long queue, it might take nearly an hour. If you're busy with work or don't have time, you can ask family or friends to handle it for you, but you'll need to prepare a power of attorney in advance with your handwritten signature and a copy of the agent's ID card. Don't forget that regulations vary by region – for example, big cities might have an online pre-review system that can save you a lot of trouble. All in all, for safety and security, I recommend going in person for peace of mind, at least for the first new car registration – don't be lazy about it.
Let me share from personal experience. I once helped a neighbor with the registration of a used car since he was away on business. The DMV staff mentioned that a proxy is acceptable, but requires original and photocopied IDs of both parties, the vehicle purchase contract, and a stamped authorization letter. The process was quick, completed in under ten minutes, with staff carefully verifying details to prevent fraud. Note that new car transfers usually require the owner's physical presence for identity verification, while older cars or simple modifications may have more lenient rules. It's wise to regularly check the local DMV's official website or social media for updated regulations to avoid surprises. Don't believe rumors that all procedures can be delegated—certain steps like emergency handling still require the owner's presence to prevent disputes affecting rights.
In the past, vehicle registration required personal attendance, but now the rules have changed significantly. I remember when I bought my first car in my youth, I had to stand in line to get stamps and signatures, which was exhausting. However, last year when transferring a car for my grandson, who couldn't make it back, I handled it on his behalf. With a signed power of attorney from him, my ID, and the vehicle documents, the process at the DMV window was straightforward. The key is having all the necessary documents, including the car purchase invoice and a copy of the insurance policy—missing any would mean multiple trips. Although it's more convenient now, it's safer to be present for initial registration or new vehicle transfers, especially during identity verification, as impersonation can lead to issues. It's always good to consult experienced friends or check official channels for updated information when you have time.
