How Long Does It Take to Transfer a Vehicle Registration from Another Location to Local?
3 Answers
Vehicle registration transfer and file extraction require three days for approval. Article 13, Paragraph 1 of the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations" stipulates: "The vehicle management office shall, within three days from the date of acceptance, annotate the changes on the motor vehicle registration certificate, retrieve the license plate and vehicle license, issue a temporary license plate valid for 30 days, and hand over the motor vehicle file to the motor vehicle owner." It can be seen that the approval period for file extraction is three days, calculated from the date of acceptance by the vehicle management office. Below is the process for file extraction and transfer: 1. Tracing number: Obtain a tracing number card and trace the number at the transfer hall, indicating that the vehicle is being relocated. 2. Valuation: Take the vehicle license, registration certificate, tracing number slip, invoice or transfer ticket to have the vehicle valued, indicating that the vehicle is being relocated. 3. Obtain processing number: Select the relocation option at the hall entrance according to the vehicle number. 4. Submit documents: Same as local transfer, plus the tracing number and a copy of the vehicle license. 5. Submit license plate: Submit the relocation authorization letter, "Motor Vehicle Transfer Application Form", vehicle license, buyer's ID and two copies, registration certificate, vehicle license plate, and license plate fee at the window, and receive a receipt. 6. File extraction: After submitting the license plate, collect the file from the vehicle management office headquarters after 3 working days. 7. Issue temporary license plate: The vehicle management department issues a temporary license plate to the owner. 8. Destination: After the motor vehicle arrives at the destination, the owner can use the file to complete the transfer-in procedures at the relevant unit.
Last time I helped someone with the process of transferring an out-of-town vehicle to a local one, the whole procedure took about two days, mainly due to waiting in line at the DMV and the vehicle inspection. Normally, if all the documents are complete, the license plate replacement can be done on the same day. However, if it's a busy day, such as before weekends or near holidays, it might take 3-5 days. Preparing the materials is crucial: copies of ID, vehicle registration certificate, insurance policy—none of these can be missing, or you'll have to redo the process. I also recommend making an online appointment with the DMV in advance to avoid long queues. Additionally, checking the vehicle for any issues, like tire wear or broken lights, can speed up the process. Overall, don’t rush it; allowing a buffer of 2-3 days is a safe bet.
The time it takes to transfer the registration of an out-of-town vehicle usually depends on the efficiency of the local DMV and the preparation of documents. In the best-case scenario, the license plate procedures can be completed in a single day, while delays of four to five days are common, often due to peak-hour queues or missing documents. From my experience handling similar cases, I recommend checking the required documents in advance: such as the original owner's ID, purchase tax certificate, etc., and ensuring the vehicle passes basic inspections. If all documents are in order, the process can be completed on the same day. However, delays may occur due to inconvenient transportation or network issues. Try to visit the DMV in the morning to avoid the afternoon rush, and bring a power bank and snacks to avoid hunger and fatigue during the process.
