How to Check If a Vehicle Has Been Transferred to Someone Else?
2 Answers
You can bring your ID to the vehicle management office to inquire about the vehicle information under your name, or check with the local traffic police team to see if you have any cars registered under your name. On the vehicle violation inquiry platform, enter the vehicle information and license plate number. If you can only retrieve the information by entering the original owner's vehicle details, it indicates that the transfer has not been completed successfully. You can also inquire with the insurance company about the vehicle's insurance personnel to determine whether the vehicle has been transferred. When there are issues with the vehicle, such as involvement in a car accident, failure to undergo annual inspection, stolen vehicles, or smuggled vehicles, the transfer cannot be processed through normal procedures.
When I first bought a car, I was also curious about how to check the transfer history. Typically, the most reliable method is to review the vehicle registration certificate, which clearly states the latest owner information. If the certificate is lost or suspected to be fake, you should bring your ID card, vehicle license, and purchase contract to the local vehicle management office. The staff will help you check the transfer records—this service is free but may involve long queues. Nowadays, many cities offer online platforms, such as the Traffic Management 12123 app, where you can input the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to view the transfer history in real-time. Don’t overlook this verification, as incomplete transfer procedures could lead to unclear accident liability or legal disputes for the new owner. It’s advisable to verify before and after the transaction to avoid potential conflicts. Requesting the seller to provide transfer proof or a receipt during the purchase can also save trouble. Remember to update the vehicle transfer promptly to protect yourself from losses.
