Is it acceptable to transfer motorcycle ownership without transferring the insurance?
2 Answers
Second-hand motorcycle ownership transfer, as the name implies, refers to changing the name of the vehicle owner. It is an indispensable procedure in the process of buying and selling used motorcycles. Failure to transfer ownership can cause inconvenience to both the buyer and the seller. If only an agreement is signed without transferring ownership, the previous owner can still use the motorcycle as collateral, potentially harming the interests of the new owner. Relevant regulations: The required procedures for motorcycle ownership transfer are as follows: proof of the motor vehicle's origin; the whole vehicle factory certificate for domestically produced motor vehicles; the tax payment certificate or tax exemption certificate for motor vehicle purchase tax; the compulsory insurance certificate for motor vehicle traffic accident liability; the motor vehicle technical data file; the "Motor Vehicle Registration, Transfer, Cancellation/Transfer Application Form"; the original and copy of the identity proof of the motor vehicle owner; if handled by an agent, the original and copy of the agent's identity proof and the written authorization from the motor vehicle owner must also be submitted.
When I was young, I made this mistake when buying a car—I transferred the motorcycle’s ownership but forgot to transfer the insurance. Later, when I got into a minor scrape, the insurance company outright refused to cover it, citing that the policy was still under the previous owner’s name. The loss was huge, and I had to pay the entire repair cost out of pocket. Now I understand that transferring insurance must be done immediately; otherwise, it’s like driving without any coverage. Legally, it’s also unacceptable, and you could face fines if caught. My advice: after the transfer, head straight to the insurance company to fill out a transfer form—it’s quick and simple, and a small cost now can save you big trouble later. Also, always check your policy’s expiration date to avoid compromising your safe driving.
