What procedures are required for license plate transfer?
3 Answers
The procedures required for transferring a car license plate are as follows: 1. The required documents for license plate transfer include: the original ID card of the seller (copy required); the original ID card of the buyer (copy required); the original vehicle purchase invoice or the last transfer invoice (copy acceptable). 2. Other procedures and materials: the motor vehicle registration certificate of the vehicle to be transferred (copy required); the original vehicle license (copy required); the used vehicle sales contract and other materials. 3. License plate transfer between spouses is possible: Spouses can transfer license plates to each other. Taking Shenzhen as an example, according to Article 50 of the "Shenzhen Small Passenger Car Increment Regulation Management Implementation Rules," if one spouse transfers a locally registered vehicle under their name to the other spouse who has no car and no valid quota, the transfer can be directly processed with valid documents such as a marriage certificate, without the need to apply for a quota. This means that as long as the other party has no car and has not applied for a quota, the vehicle can be transferred to their name at any time.
I recently helped a friend with a license plate transfer, and the process was quite involved. Both parties need to bring their original ID cards, and the vehicle registration certificate and driving license are also required. First, you have to get a transaction invoice from the used car market, then drive to the DMV for a vehicle inspection, where staff will verify details like the VIN and engine number. It's best to bring the compulsory traffic insurance policy too, as some places may check it. Make sure all traffic violations are cleared on the transfer day, or the process could be delayed. The new owner should also confirm whether they have a local car purchase quota, especially in cities with license plate restrictions. The whole process is time-consuming, so it's advisable to book a DMV appointment in advance. Also, a reminder: the original license plate usually can't be kept, and the new owner will need to select a new number and register it.
Last time when transferring the ownership of my old car, I went through quite a few detours. Actually, the license plate transfer follows the vehicle, requiring the ID proofs of both buyer and seller, as well as the vehicle's green book and registration certificate. First, you need to go to the trading hall to issue the transfer invoice, then complete the vehicle transfer registration at the DMV. During the vehicle inspection, the license plate needs to be removed for photos, one each from the front and back. The license plate itself cannot be transferred separately, so it remains under the original owner's name. I recommend both parties to be present in person, as authorizing someone else requires notarization, which is troublesome. It's best to prepare several copies of the documents, as the service counters often ask for additional materials. The cost is minimal, mainly just the administrative fees. After completion, remember to change the insurance beneficiary to the new owner's name to avoid future claim issues.
