[Tips on car transfers] Whether you’re buying or selling a car, you need to know the common problems with vehicle transfers!

1. What is car transfer?

   • Transferring a vehicle is the process of transferring the legal ownership of a vehicle from the original owner to the new owner. This formality must be handled by the Transport Department.
     
     

2. What documents are needed for transfer?

   • Vehicle registration document (license plate)
   • Copies of Hong Kong identity cards or company registration documents of both parties (buyer and seller)
   • Completed "Motor Vehicle Transfer Notification" (TD25 form)
   • Valid third party automobile insurance certificate
   • If the vehicle is mortgaged, a bank consent letter is required
     
     

3. Transfer location and time

   • Transfer of ownership must be done in person at any Licensing Office of the Transport Department or by entrusting an intermediary company to handle the transfer
   • The general service time is from Monday to Saturday. Individual centers have different service hours. It is recommended to make an appointment to queue up.
     
     

4. Does the vehicle need a vehicle inspection?

   • Vehicles older than six years or vehicles designated by the Transport Department must be inspected at an approved vehicle inspection centre before transfer of ownership
   • The transfer procedure can only be processed after the vehicle inspection is passed
     
     

5. Do both the buyer and seller need to be present at the same time?

   • Generally, it is recommended that both the buyer and the seller be present at the site to ensure a smooth process and the interests of both parties.
   • If one party is unable to be present, they may authorize another person to do the work on their behalf, but they must produce a letter of authorization and relevant supporting documents.
     
     

6. How much is the transfer fee?

   • The government's vehicle transfer administrative fees vary depending on the type of vehicle.
   • For private cars, trucks and other standard models, there are clear charging standards. You can check with the Transport Department.
     
     

7. How to deal with insurance after transfer

   • After the car owner transfers ownership, there must be valid third-party insurance, otherwise the new owner cannot complete the registration
   • It is recommended that new car owners prepare insurance in advance, which will take effect immediately on the day of transfer.
     
     

8. What happens if you still owe traffic fines?

   • If there are any unpaid traffic fines or other government fees on the vehicle, the Transport Department will refuse to process the transfer.
   • The buyer and seller should confirm that the relevant fees have been paid before the transfer.
     
     

9. Responsibilities after transfer

   • After the transfer is completed, all responsibilities of the vehicle (fines, violations, accidents, etc.) will be the responsibility of the new owner
   • The original owner is still responsible for the responsibilities before the transfer
     
     

10. How to check vehicle registration status after transfer of ownership

    • New vehicle owners can check whether the vehicle has been officially transferred to their name by visiting the Transport Department's website or using the "Vehicle Registration Enquiry" service.
      
      

11. What should you pay special attention to when transferring a used car?

    • The vehicle inspection certificate is usually valid for only a few days and the transfer must be processed within the validity period.
    • Check that the vehicle body number and engine number are consistent with the registration documents
    • Carefully check whether the vehicle has any outstanding mortgages or legal disputes
      
      

12. Can I transfer my ownership online?

    • Currently, most vehicle transfers in Hong Kong still need to be handled in person at the Transport Department, and some procedures can be booked online
    • Document submission and identity verification still require on-site presence

In summary, when transferring ownership of a vehicle in Hong Kong, you should prepare all the necessary documents and both parties should be present at the same time to ensure the transaction is safe and completed smoothly. Before and after the transfer, be sure to check the vehicle's condition and pay all related fees to avoid unnecessary disputes or legal liabilities.

General vehicle transfer fees

Transport Department Transfer Form (TD25)

https://www.td.gov.hk/en/public_forms/td_forms/transfer_of_ownership/index.html