HOW TO CHANGE CAR OWNERSHIP IN NIGERIA
To change car ownership in Nigeria, you need to follow a specific process. Here are the general steps involved:
1. Obtain the necessary documents: Make sure you have all the required documents for transferring car ownership. These typically include the following:
· Vehicle’s original registration documents
· Vehicle license (up-to-date)
· Valid proof of insurance
· Valid proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale, receipt)
· Visit the local motor vehicle licensing office: Locate the nearest office of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) or the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) in your state. Visit the office during working hours.
2. Obtain the transfer form: Request the “Vehicle Transfer Form” from the FRSC or MVAA office. Fill out the form accurately with the necessary details.
3. Provide required documents: Submit the completed transfer form along with the following documents:
· Proof of identification (e.g., valid driver’s license, international passport)
· Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
· Previous owner’s ID card
· Current vehicle license and registration papers
· Proof of insurance
4. Pay the necessary fees: Inquire about the applicable fees for changing car ownership and pay the required amount at the designated payment point within the licensing office. Get a receipt as proof of payment.
5. Verification and inspection: The licensing office may conduct a physical inspection of the vehicle to verify its condition and details provided. Ensure that the vehicle is in good working order and meets the necessary requirements.
6. Obtain new registration documents: After completing the verification process, the licensing office will issue new registration documents in the new owner’s name. These documents include a new vehicle license, registration certificate, and proof of ownership.
7. Update insurance details: Contact your insurance company to update the policy details with the new owner’s information. Provide them with the updated registration documents as proof of ownership.
It is important to note that the process and specific requirements may vary slightly depending on the state or location within Nigeria. Therefore, it is advisable to contact your local motor vehicle licensing office or FRSC for precise instructions and any additional steps specific to your area.
Conclusion:
Changing car ownership in Nigeria is more than just handing over keys—it is a legal process that ensures the rightful transfer of responsibility and ownership. Proper documentation is crucial, including the original purchase receipt, proof of ownership, valid roadworthiness certificate, insurance policy, and vehicle registration documents. Without these, a new owner may face legal disputes or difficulties in renewing the vehicle’s papers.
The process typically involves visiting the State Vehicle Licensing Office (VLO) or the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to officially update records. Additionally, obtaining a notarized sales agreement or affidavit can further validate the transaction, ensuring there are no future claims on the vehicle. Buyers should also confirm that there are no outstanding fines or encumbrances on the car before finalizing the transfer.
As digitalization improves government services, some states now allow online applications for vehicle transfers, making the process more efficient. However, fraudulent practices remain a challenge, with unauthorized agents offering shortcuts that often lead to problems. It is advisable to engage only certified officials or legal professionals to handle the process correctly.
For imported vehicles, clearing documents and custom duty verification are additional steps that cannot be overlooked. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) provides platforms to check whether a car has been properly cleared before purchase.
In conclusion, successfully transferring car ownership in Nigeria requires diligence, legal compliance, and proper documentation. Buyers and sellers must take necessary precautions to ensure a seamless, fraud-free, and legally binding transaction. By following the correct procedures, vehicle owners can avoid unnecessary fines, disputes, or legal complications in the future.