LegalTenantsLeasePlatform

Essential Documents for Vehicle Name Transfer

2 minutes

Listen to the blog audio:

The blog post has been auto-translated.
Essential Documents for Vehicle Name Transfer post illustrative image 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 Identity Card
  • Proof of address issued within the last three months
  • Original Certificate of Allocation of Personalized Registration Mark (if applicable)

Documents Required from the Seller (Previous Owner)

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

Actual Steps (Must Complete Within 72 Hours)

  • Both parties fill out TD25 in person: original copy to the buyer, duplicate copy kept by the seller
  • Buyer must purchase insurance: third-party insurance must be valid on the transfer date; previous policy automatically expires after transfer
  • Visit the Licensing Office together (or via an agent): buyer submits the original TD25 and all proofs, seller submits the duplicate (can queue simultaneously)
  • Payment: HK$1,000 for private cars; HK$250 for motorcycles/trikes

Is the "Clean Record Certificate" Mandatory?

  • Full name: Form TD 87(S) "Application for a Certificate of No Outstanding Fines or Litigation Costs and No Traffic Convictions"
  • Not legally required; Transport Department states buyers "may" (optional) apply before signing the contract
  • If the vehicle has unpaid fines, court-ordered transfer restrictions, or requires inspection, the transfer will be suspended—applying for the certificate helps identify issues early
  • Validity period: 72 hours

When Is the "Clean Record Certificate" Necessary?

  • Private transactions with significantly below-market prices
    • Verify no suspensions or large unpaid fines to avoid hidden issues
  • Older vehicles or modified vehicles
    • Confirm no pending mandatory inspection orders to avoid post-purchase repairs
  • Seller refuses to disclose violation records
    • Use the certificate to confirm all fines are cleared, or demand resolution before transfer.

By following the above steps, both new and old car owners can complete the transfer process in one go, without the need to submit additional documents. If you're looking for a place to live in Hong Kong, why not try ourLetsGetHome KeyHome rental platform!

Rental | Studying in Hong Kong https://www.letsgethome.com/zh-HK/blog

Free self-listing https://www.letsgethome.com/zh-HK/listings/new

LegalTenantsLeasePlatform

Nilclass: Profile picture
By LetsGetHome Rental Platform