What procedures are required for out-of-town residents to purchase and license a car locally?
3 Answers
Out-of-town residents need the following procedures to purchase and license a car locally: 1. Owner's ID card (local residents can use a residence permit for local licensing); 2. Vehicle certificate and parameter table; 3. Car purchase invoice; 4. Proof of vehicle purchase tax payment and invoice; 5. Car insurance policy and invoice. Things to note when buying a car: 1. Choose the brand and model; 2. Select the price range; 3. Communicate rationally with the salesperson; 4. Choose the configuration; 5. Pay attention to the contract; 6. Check if the car-related documents are complete; 7. Inspect the exterior paint and interior for any damage; 8. Verify if the production date on the vehicle nameplate matches the related documents; 9. Check if the engine is working properly and if the basic functions of the vehicle are normal.
I just bought and registered a car locally last year as an out-of-towner. The procedures weren't as scary as I thought. First step was getting proof of local residence - I used my rental contract and utility bills signed by the landlord to get a temporary residence permit from the community office, which cost me 50 yuan. Second step when buying the car: don't rush to drive it away immediately. You need to get the official purchase invoice and vehicle qualification certificate first. Third step is immediately getting compulsory traffic insurance, about 500 yuan. Fourth step is going to the DMV - remember to bring original and photocopy of ID card, temporary residence permit, invoice and insurance policy. After queuing to pay the purchase tax (10% of new car price) and filling out an application form, you can select license plates once the staff finishes inspecting the vehicle. The whole process took me two days - mornings are crowded, so I recommend going in the afternoon. Requirements vary significantly between cities - Beijing requires online appointment in advance while Guangzhou is more relaxed. After getting it done, commuting became much more convenient. Total cost besides the car price was around 1,000 yuan.
I'm very familiar with this process, having helped several friends obtain local license plates as out-of-towners. The key is proving your local residency: First, get a residence certificate from the police station or community center—just bring your ID card and photos. After purchasing the car, quickly obtain the invoice and secure valid compulsory traffic insurance. Next, head to the DMV; paying the 10% purchase tax is crucial. Required documents include a copy of your ID, residence certificate, original purchase invoice, insurance policy, and vehicle technical parameter sheet. It’s wise to prepare a vehicle identification rubbing as a backup. The DMV will inspect the car and check the VIN, after which you can select your plate number. The entire process can be completed in half a day if smooth, but avoid peak hours on Mondays or book an online appointment to save time. Requirements vary by region—Shenzhen is stricter than Chengdu, requiring additional social security records. Having all documents ready is essential; don’t delay.
