Used car transfer in Thailand, step by step: papers, fees, insurance
A used car deal moves a lot more money than most secondhand purchases. A paperwork mistake or a skipped inspection can cost tens of thousands of baht. This guide follows the order you should actually work through.
Last updated: 2026-08-31 · Near Dee
1. Inspect the car before discussing the transfer
Before the paperwork stage, inspect the car thoroughly or take it to an independent inspection service (many large garages offer used-car checks). Look for repaired collision damage, check whether the odometer reading matches the wear on the seats and steering wheel, test drive on both smooth and rough roads, and review the service book if the seller has one.
Ask for the original registration book and confirm the registered owner matches the person negotiating the sale. If the car is still on finance, request the finance company's clearance letter before handing over the final payment.
2. Documents the seller needs
- Original vehicle registration book
- Seller's original ID card, plus a signed copy
- Power of attorney (if the seller cannot attend in person), with a copy of the grantor's ID
- Finance clearance letter (if the car was under an instalment plan)
- Latest tax and compulsory insurance receipts
3. Documents the buyer needs
- Original ID card, plus a copy
- Power of attorney (if the buyer cannot attend in person)
- If financing the purchase, the hire-purchase agreement from the new finance company
4. Book an appointment and visit the DLT office
Many transport offices now allow booking online in advance through the Department of Land Transport's website or app. Ideally both buyer and seller attend together with the car, so an officer can verify the chassis and engine numbers at the inspection point before the ownership transfer is processed at the counter.
5. Transfer fees and outstanding tax
The ownership transfer fee is roughly ฿100-300, plus small application and new plate fees if the plate changes — usually a few hundred baht total. If annual tax is overdue, back tax plus a penalty must be paid before the transfer goes through, so check the tax status in advance and factor it into your negotiated price.
6. The tax disc and re-registration after transfer
Once the transfer is complete, the buyer receives a registration book in their own name and should check the tax disc on the windscreen is not close to expiring. Cars over 7 years old must pass a private inspection centre (ตรอ.) check every year before the tax can be renewed.
7. Switch the insurance policy to the buyer's name
Voluntary insurance (Class 1-3) is tied to the vehicle and the previous owner. Contact the insurer to change the named insured immediately after the transfer, or take out a new policy in your own name. If an accident happens before the name is updated, claims can be delayed or disputed over who has an insurable interest.