How to License a Used Car?

[VonErin]

To license a used car, visit the vehicle management office or the vehicle management office stationed at the used car trading market to complete the licensing process. Used car transfer process: Sign the used vehicle sales contract. Check for any traffic violations; if there are violations or the vehicle inspection is overdue, the transfer cannot proceed. Go to the used car trading market or any place that can issue an invoice to obtain a transfer invoice. Used car licensing process: Visit the vehicle management office or the vehicle management office stationed at the used car trading market to complete the licensing process. Staff will inspect the vehicle, take rubbings of the vehicle identification number, remove the license plate, and take photos. A fee for the rubbing will be charged. Collect the vehicle photos and attach them to the inspection record form. Check for traffic violations. Once approved, take the relevant documents, the Motor Vehicle Registration, Transfer, Cancellation/Transfer Application Form, and the transfer invoice to the relevant window to complete the process. Submit the original vehicle documents and license plates, select a new number, receive a new vehicle license, tax registration certificate, and new license plates. Purchase the appropriate insurance according to the relevant regulations.

[EvelynRose]

As a newbie who just bought a used car, I’d like to share my license plate registration experience with you. First, make sure the vehicle has no issues—check for accident history or unauthorized modifications. Don’t skip this step, or the DMV won’t accept it. Prepare the required documents: a copy of the previous owner’s ID, your original ID, the vehicle registration certificate, the car’s license, and the purchase invoice. It’s best to make a few copies in advance—the queues at the DMV are long, so this saves time. At the DMV, the first step is to submit a transfer application, fill out forms, and pay the fees. The tax is calculated based on the vehicle’s residual value, usually costing a few hundred RMB. Next is the inspection—staff will verify the VIN and engine number match, and test the lights and brakes. If everything checks out, you can pick a new license plate number, either randomly or by custom selection. I recommend going random—it’s cheaper and faster. After selecting, wait a few days to collect your new plates and install them at home. The whole process took me a day, so bring snacks and water to avoid hunger. When buying a used car, don’t just chase the lowest price—finding a trustworthy seller makes registration much smoother.

[AdrianaDella]

From my experience, going through the proper procedures for used car registration can save a lot of hassle. First, make an online appointment with the DMV in advance to avoid peak times like Mondays. Bring all required documents: original IDs of both the old and new owners, vehicle registration certificate, driving license, and purchase contract invoice—it's recommended to organize them in a document folder. The first step is transferring ownership and paying taxes, with a tax rate of 1-3% of the transaction price, calculated based on the residual value. During the vehicle inspection, ensure the tires and emissions meet standards, and the exterior is in original condition without rust. Choosing a standard random license plate number is cheaper, while custom plates are more expensive but offer faster personalization. The entire process duration varies; a smooth process can be completed in two to three hours. A key tip: check beforehand for any outstanding violations or liens on the vehicle to avoid wasted trips. Money-saving trick: hiring an agent might be faster, but handling it yourself offers more learning opportunities. Prioritize safety—don’t skip steps to prevent disputes later.

[DiGrace]

Just helped my child buy their first used car, and I taught them the safe and reliable steps for the registration process. Prepare the basic documents: original and photocopies of both parties' ID cards, the vehicle's green registration book, the original license plate registration certificate, and the transaction invoice. Go directly to the official DMV to complete the transfer and pay the purchase tax, which is calculated based on the vehicle's value. The vehicle inspection is essential—check if the body is intact without damage, the lights are bright and undamaged, and the brakes are responsive. Then, choose a new license plate; young people prefer custom numbers, but random plates are affordable and quick. The process takes about half a day, so bring water and be patient. Remember to follow the law strictly and avoid small intermediaries to reduce risks. Checking the car's condition before purchase is crucial to ensure no accident risks.