- Step-by-Step Process for Transferring Car Ownership
- Digital Transfer Options Through Absher
- Post-Transfer Checklist
- FAQ
Looking to transfer car ownership in KSA? This updated 2025 guide simplifies the process with step-by-step instructions, required documents, Absher platform guidance, and practical tips to avoid common mistakes. Follow it to ensure a smooth and efficient transfer.
Step-by-Step Process for Transferring Car Ownership
3 Essential Requirements Before Starting
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary documents and information at hand:
Your original and valid vehicle registration (Istimara).
Both seller’s and buyer’s national IDs or Iqamas.
A current insurance policy with at least third-party coverage.
These steps are crucial before you visit the traffic department in person. Keeping all your documents updated and valid will save you time during the transfer process.
How to Complete the Transfer in 2025
Follow this updated procedure to ensure your vehicle ownership is transferred without any hassles:
Verify Vehicle Status
Check if your vehicle has any outstanding fines using the Absher platform (navigate through Services > Vehicles > Inquiry). You can also verify fines through the MOI mobile app or by visiting your local Saudi traffic police station. Ensuring your vehicle is clear of fines prevents delays in processing your ownership transfer request.
Submit Required Documents
Prepare and submit the following physical copies:
A seller-signed transfer request form.
The original vehicle registration certificate.
A valid insurance certificate showing current coverage.
Passport copies are necessary for expatriate buyers.
By having these documents ready, you eliminate unnecessary back-and-forth visits and speed up the entire procedure.
Payment Breakdown
Expect the following fees in 2025:
Service | Cost (SAR/AED) |
|---|---|
Ownership transfer | 150 SAR / AED |
New registration | 300 SAR / AED |
Plate replacement | 50 SAR / AED |
These fee estimates ensure that you are well-prepared financially when initiating your vehicle transfer process.
Common Issues When Transferring Ownership
Avoid these common pitfalls that often cause delays:
Incomplete or missing seller signatures can invalidate your transfer form.
Using an expired insurance policy may result in a rejected application.
Unpaid traffic violations might block your request in the Absher platform.
Mismatched or incorrect ID numbers can lead to delays during document verification.
Make sure to double-check every document and piece of information before submission.
Digital Transfer Options Through Absher
How to Initiate Online Transfers
Transferring ownership online can be convenient if you follow these steps:
Log into your Absher account with your secure credentials.
Navigate to the Vehicles > Ownership Transfer section.
Input the buyer’s ID information as required.
Upload clear, scanned copies of all essential documents.
Complete the process by paying the fees electronically using your preferred payment method.
This online procedure is streamlined to help you complete the bulk of the transfer without the need for multiple visits to the office.
Mandatory In-Person Appointments
Despite the convenience of the digital process, certain steps require you to be physically present:
Both the buyer and seller must visit the traffic department for final document verification.
Biometric confirmation and the physical handover of vehicle plates are completed in person.
Ensure you schedule your appointment promptly to avoid any delays in your vehicle transfer.
Post-Transfer Checklist
Update These Records Within 14 Days
Once the ownership transfer is completed, update the following records:
Your vehicle insurance policy to reflect the new ownership.
Parking permits linked to the vehicle.
Toll gate accounts such as the Saudi Salik system.
Employer transportation records, if applicable.
Timely updates are necessary to prevent any administrative or legal issues emerging later on.
Legal Protection Tips
To maintain a legally sound transfer, consider these recommendations:
Always keep a notarized Arabic copy of the transfer agreement.
Document the vehicle’s odometer reading at the time of transfer for accuracy.
Save all payment receipts for a minimum of two years.
If applicable, register or update the vehicle’s GPS system details.
Remember, completing the transfer within 30 days of the sale is critical; delays may incur a penalty of 500 SAR/AED under the 2025 regulations.
FAQ
What should I do if my vehicle has outstanding fines?Outstanding fines can create complications when transferring car ownership in KSA. It is essential that you clear any fines before initiating the transfer process. Utilize the Absher platform or visit your local traffic police station to verify your vehicle's status. Resolving these issues ahead of time will ensure a smoother transaction and help avoid any legal penalties. Ensuring your record is clean will boost confidence when finalizing the transfer process.
How can I be certain that all my documents are in order?Double-check every required document before heading to the traffic department. You need to ensure your original registration, valid insurance cover, and both parties’ IDs are current and accurate. It might help to create a checklist to avoid missing essential paperwork. Fans of the Absher platform often recommend verifying document status online first. This practice prevents unnecessary delays during the verification stage at the department.
Can I complete the ownership transfer entirely online?While the initial stages of the transfer can be handled online using the Absher platform, certain steps require in-person confirmation. Both seller and buyer must appear at the traffic department for biometric verification and to receive new vehicle plates. This blend of online efficiency and physical verification ensures security and adherence to Saudi standards. Keeping both options in mind will help you plan the process better.
What happens if the seller cannot be present during the transfer process?If the seller is unable to be present, you might need to provide a power of attorney to authorize the transfer on their behalf. Contact the traffic department to understand the exact requirements in such scenarios. Ensure that all documentation, including notarized authorizations, is prepared ahead of time. This extra precaution helps avoid delays or invalid transfers, making the process as streamlined as possible.
How do I handle discrepancies in vehicle documents like mismatched IDs or outdated insurance details?Any mismatch between information on your documents can lead to delays or a rejection of your transfer request. It is always advisable to correct any errors at the earliest opportunity, whether through updating the Absher profile or contacting the issuing authority. Taking corrective action prior to initiating the transfer can save you time and prevent complications. Always verify every detail carefully to ensure a hassle-free experience.
This article is for reference only. Please follow the latest local laws and regulations.
