How to Transfer an Out-of-Town License Plate to a Local One?
4 Answers
To transfer an out-of-town license plate to a local one, first, check the vehicle's emission standard and consult the local vehicle management office to see if they accept vehicles with that emission standard. If acceptable, you must first go to the vehicle management office where the original license plate was issued to complete the second-hand vehicle transfer procedures. After fulfilling the local requirements, proceed with the vehicle file transfer process. Then, take the vehicle's file to the local municipal public security bureau's vehicle management office to complete the registration process. Provided the vehicle management office approves the transfer, apply for the registration transfer according to the following regulations and locations: 1. Imported vehicles and domestic models such as Shanghai Buick, Guangzhou Honda, Changchun Audi A6L, Fengshen Bluebird, Shanghai Passat, Hainan Mazda, as well as police vehicles, taxis, training vehicles, minibuses, special vehicles, embassy vehicles, and foreign vehicles should be processed at the vehicle management office. 2. Urban areas do not handle the registration of agricultural transport vehicles and various motorcycles. For motorcycles, agricultural transport vehicles, and specialized machinery in suburban districts and counties, go to the local vehicle management station. 3. Other vehicles should be processed at the vehicle management sub-office corresponding to the owner's residential address.
Last year, I transferred my car from Shenzhen to Chongqing, and the process was a bit complicated but worth sharing. First, I went to the Shenzhen Vehicle Management Office where the car was originally registered to complete the transfer-out procedures, bringing the vehicle registration certificate and ID card, and they stamped the cancellation seal. Then, back in Chongqing, I brought all the required materials including a copy of my ID card, proof of residence such as a rental contract, and applied for the transfer-in at the local Vehicle Management Office. The emission standard had to meet at least China V, otherwise it would be difficult to pass. I recommend checking local policies in advance, as places like Beijing and Shanghai are stricter. The whole process took ten days, during which the car couldn't be driven on the road, and the cost was about five hundred yuan, including the license plate fee. After the transfer, remember to update the insurance and switch to a local license plate to avoid the hassle of out-of-town plates.
Just helped a friend with this, and preparing the materials is crucial. You need to gather the vehicle registration certificate, copies of both sides of the owner's ID card, the original purchase invoice or tax payment certificate, as well as the original local residence permit like a temporary residence permit. I forgot to bring the copies and had to make an extra trip, which wasted time. The cost is around 400 yuan, including the transfer fee and inspection. The emissions must meet local standards, so check the list online in advance to ensure all materials are ready. Getting it done in one go saves hassle, and after completion, switching to a local license plate makes travel more convenient.
As someone who knows car repairs, I remind you to pay attention to the vehicle's condition during transfer. Emission standards are key local requirements, such as China V or above. Get the vehicle serviced in advance to ensure the engine is normal—failing the emissions test is a common reason for rejection. Policies vary by region, with stricter enforcement in big cities. Required documents include the registration certificate and ID card. The process involves deregistering from the original location and transferring to the new one, with costs ranging from 300 to 500 yuan. Handle it promptly to avoid extra trouble.
