Essential Documents for Vehicle Name Transfer in HK

What documents do sellers and buyers need to bring for the name transfer?

Documents required for the buyer (new owner)

• Original copy of the "Vehicle Transfer Notification" TD25 (signed by both parties)
• Original copy of the valid car insurance policy
• Original vehicle registration document (must be signed by the seller)
• Original Hong Kong ID card
• Proof of address within the last three months
• Original copy of the personalized registration number allocation certificate (if applicable)

Documents required for the seller (previous owner)

• Copy of the "Vehicle Transfer Notification" TD25 (must be signed by the previous owner)
• Submit the copy of TD25 to the "Vehicle Registration Office" within 72 hours after handover
• Vehicle registration document (to be given to the buyer only after confirmation by the Transport Department)

Practical Steps (To Be Completed Within 72 Hours)

• Both parties fill out TD25 in person: Original copy goes to the buyer, duplicate copy stays with the seller
• Buyer must purchase insurance: Third-party insurance must be valid on the day of transfer; old policy automatically becomes void after transfer
• Together (or through an agent) go to the Licensing Office, buyer submits original TD25 and all proofs, seller submits duplicate, can queue simultaneously
• Payment: Private car transfer HK$1,000; motorcycle / motor tricycle HK$250

Is applying for a "Clean Record Certificate" necessary?

• Full name: TD 87(S) "Application for a Certificate of No Unpaid Fines or Litigation Fees and No Violation Record"
• Not legally mandatory; the Transport Department states that buyers "may" (optional) apply before signing the contract
• If the vehicle has unpaid fines, is court-prohibited from transfer, or requires inspection, the Transport Department will suspend the transfer process; applying for a Clean Record Certificate allows early awareness
• Valid for 72 hours

Under what circumstances is it necessary to obtain a "Certificate of Clearance"?

• Private transactions, prices significantly below market value
• First verify that there is no suspension or large unpaid fines to avoid "falling into a trap"
• High vehicle age or previously modified
• Check if there are any outstanding mandatory vehicle inspection orders to avoid having to repair after taking over.
• Seller unwilling to disclose violation records
• Use the certificate to confirm all fines have been paid, otherwise request the seller to handle them before handing over the vehicle.

Follow the above steps, and both new and old owners can complete the transfer in one go without worrying about additional documents. If you're looking for a place to live in Hong Kong, why not try ourLetsGetHome Golden Key House rental platform!

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