Transferring car ownership in Nigeria is a necessary process when selling or buying a used vehicle. Without updating the registration details, the car remains legally tied to the previous owner, which can lead to issues with law enforcement, insurance, or resale.
This updated guide outlines the process in simple steps. It involves three main parties: the original car owner (seller), new owner (buyer), and the Central Motor Registry, the regulatory body under the Police Force.
Read Also: Commencement of the electronic central motor registry.
What documents and requirements are needed to transfer vehicle ownership?
Before you commence the process of transferring car ownership, some documents are required for a seamless ownership transfer. These documents include:
- Proof of ownership certificate
- A current certificate of roadworthiness
- The original owner’s receipt of purchase
- Valid means of identity (eg National ID, Driver’s License)
- Third-party insurance for the car
- A police report or vehicle inspection form
- Payment of a processing fee
- A signed affidavit of change of ownership
- Letter of authority acknowledging the transfer of ownership from the current owner to the buyer
- A sworn affidavit by the buyer
- An MVAA 01 registration form
- Original copy of vehicle allocation of plate number form
- A passport photograph of the buyer
What are the steps to transfer car ownership in Nigeria?
When transferring car ownership in Nigeria, both the seller and the new owner buyer have responsibilities. The procedure according to Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette are as follows:
- Notify the Authorities
The seller must complete Form MVA 5 (this is the vehicle change of ownership form) to officially notify the appropriate licensing authority or the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office.
- Payment of Transfer Fees
The buyer is required to pay a prescribed fee set by the Joint Tax Board to finalize the ownership change.
- Update of Registration Book
The seller submits the vehicle’s registration book to the licensing authority, which then updates the ownership details and issues a new registration book to the buyer.
- Deadline for Notification
The ownership change must be notified within 30 days of the sale to avoid penalties or transfer complications.
- Import Duty Requirement (If Applicable)
If the vehicle was originally imported into Nigeria free of import duty, the new owner must obtain a certificate of import duty payment or an exemption certificate from the Nigeria Customs Service before the transfer can be processed.
- Official Update of Ownership Records
Once all the required steps are completed, the licensing authority will update its official vehicle ownership register to reflect the new owner’s details.
- Update of Roadworthiness and Insurance
Once registration transfer is finalized, It is necessary to update the new owner’s information on the vehicle’s insurance policy and roadworthiness certificate. Read on the importance of roadworthiness here
How to process car ownership transfer online in Nigeria?
Transferring car ownership online is a straightforward process which requires the seller and buyer to follow specific steps. The seller must get the necessary certification and apply for ownership change before the buyer can proceed. Here’s how it works:
For the Seller
- Visit the CMR portal and apply for a Motor Vehicle Information certificate.
- Request for Change of Ownership through the same portal
For the Buyer
Once the seller’s application is approved:
- Create a Profile on the CMR Portal and sign up to receive the change of ownership certificate (this will be issued to the buyer’s profile).
This CMR takes about 1-3 days to process and approve applications while the complete transfer process takes about 5-10 days.
By following this guide, both buyers and sellers can complete the process smoothly and legally, ensuring a hassle-free transition of ownership. If you’re unsure about any step, consulting the licensing authority or a professional can help clarify any issues and keep the transfer seamless.
