How Many Days Does It Usually Take for the Archives to Be Mailed Out When Transferring a Used Car?
3 Answers
It usually takes three working days for the archives to be mailed out when transferring a used car. Preparation Work: Check if the vehicle's tires have been replaced, whether the tire model matches the one on the driving license, and verify if the vehicle has any mortgage or overdue inspection issues. Major modifications to the vehicle are also not allowed for transfer. If any of the above situations occur, the transfer cannot be processed normally. Therefore, before handling the used car transfer, it is advisable to inspect the vehicle and its documentation first. Processing Time: If you are handling the transfer procedures to another location, the vehicle management office usually processes the application within three days after submission (the transaction and archive transfer can be completed on the same day, while the license plate replacement is handled after the archives are received).
When I previously handled the transfer of used car records, I found that the time depends on how efficient the DMV is and the mailing method. Generally, after completing the procedures at the local DMV, the records can be mailed out within three days. However, during peak periods with long queues or if the documents are not filled out correctly, it might take up to a week. A useful tip is not to skimp on mailing costs by choosing regular mail; instead, opt for EMS or SF Land Transport. With expedited processing, you can receive the records within five days at the latest. The file bag contains the vehicle's registration certificate, transfer proof, and other necessary documents. Without these, subsequent license plate transfers and ownership changes cannot proceed. So, if there’s no movement after four days, it’s best to call the local DMV to check on the status.
I just went through a used car file transfer last month, and the entire process took four days for the files to be sent out. The DMV said this speed is within the normal operational range, as they first need to verify the historical records internally before packaging and handing them over to the courier. To save time, it's best to prepare all the documents in advance to avoid any rework by the staff. There are indeed differences between cities—for example, when I was in the south, the files were sent out in just two days, but a friend in the north had to wait over a week last time. Such delays can be quite frustrating. The key is to check the tracking number promptly after the files are sent out.
