In brief:
- 4 documents are mandatory: transfer certificate, crossed-out registration certificate, no-liens certificate, roadworthiness test.
- The seller has 15 days to declare the transfer after the sale.
- Without declaration, the seller remains liable for offences committed by the new buyer.
Documents to hand over to the buyer
The transfer certificate
The official transfer certificate is a mandatory document, filled in and signed in two copies: one for the seller, one for the buyer.
- Official transfer certificate, in 2 copies
- Crossed-out, dated and signed registration certificate
- Administrative status certificate less than 15 days old
- Roadworthiness test less than 6 months old (vehicle over 4 years)
Declaring the transfer online
A 15-day deadline to respect
| Step | Deadline | Who does it |
|---|---|---|
| Online transfer declaration | 15 days after the sale | The seller |
| Registration in their name | 1 month after the purchase | The buyer |
| Handing over the no-liens certificate | The day of the sale | The seller |
The online declaration generates a transfer code to pass on to the buyer. If it is lost or never sent, the buyer is not stuck: see vehicle registration without a transfer code. On a registration certificate issued before 2009, the document number requested during the declaration does not exist, which is normal: see vehicle registration without a document number.
Why this deadline matters
Without a transfer declaration, the seller remains legally liable for any use of the vehicle, including traffic offences committed by the new owner.
Handling the paperwork without traveling
These procedures can be completed entirely online, without visiting a government office in person. Providers officially authorized by the State, such as Cartegrise.com, let you submit the transfer file and get an acknowledgment within minutes. See also our guide on online vehicle registration.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are mandatory to sell your car privately?
You must provide the official transfer certificate, the crossed-out registration certificate, a no-liens certificate less than 15 days old, and the roadworthiness test if applicable.
Do you have to declare the sale of the vehicle to the registration agency?
Yes, the seller must declare the transfer within 15 days of the sale, to be released from liability in case of an offence committed by the new buyer.
What does a seller risk by not declaring the transfer of their vehicle?
They remain liable for fines and offences committed with the vehicle after the sale, until the new owner registers the car in their name.