In brief:
- 4 documents should always be requested: registration certificate, roadworthiness test, no-liens certificate, maintenance logbook.
- The roadworthiness test must be less than 6 months old for any vehicle over 4 years.
- A test drive of at least 15 minutes reveals most common mechanical defects.
Why a checklist is essential
Buying a used car remains the riskiest purchase on the car market for an individual: no manufacturer warranty, a history that is sometimes unclear, and a seller who does not always have an interest in revealing everything. A structured checklist limits the risk of mechanical or administrative surprises.
Documents to check before anything else
The registration certificate
It must match the vehicle exactly (serial number, plate) and be crossed out with the mention “sold on” followed by the date and the seller’s signature.
- Compliant, crossed-out registration certificate
- Roadworthiness test less than 6 months old
- No-liens certificate less than 15 days old
- Up-to-date maintenance logbook
Mechanical inspection
What to test during the test drive
A drive of at least 15 minutes, on the road and at different speeds, reveals suspicious noises, gearbox jolts or brake pulling.
| Checkpoint | What it reveals | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| Exhaust smoke | Engine condition | Thick blue or white smoke |
| Steering play | Steering wear | More than 2 cm of play on the wheel |
| Marks under the vehicle | Leaks | Oil or coolant stains |
After the purchase: registration
Once the purchase is completed, the new owner has a legal deadline of one month to register the vehicle in their name. See our guide on ownership transfer procedures for the full process.
Frequently asked questions
What documents should you ask for before buying a used car?
You should require the crossed-out and signed registration certificate, a roadworthiness test less than 6 months old, a no-liens certificate and the maintenance logbook.
Is a roadworthiness test mandatory to sell a used car?
Yes, once the vehicle is more than 4 years old, a roadworthiness test less than 6 months old is mandatory for the sale.
How do you check that a used car has no outstanding liens?
The seller must provide an administrative status certificate less than 15 days old, obtained free of charge online from the official registration agency.