How to Transfer Your Car to the New Owner

How to transfer your car in T&T.

You must register a vehicle transfer with the Trinidad & Tobago Transport Division any time you wish to buy, sell or change ownership of a motor vehicle. The registered owner and the new owner together must apply for a change of ownership within seven days of the sale or transfer. You must be at least 17 years old to change ownership of a vehicle. Changing ownership of a motor vehicle safety inspection can only be done at the Port of Spain, San Fernando and Tobago Licensing Offices.

How do I change ownership?

The registered owner and the new owner must complete the transfer together and submit the following documents to the Transport Division office.

  • Complete Change of Ownership Form No. 11
  • Vehicle registration certificate and valid insurance certificate.
  • Valid national ID card or passport for both the registered and new owner.
  • Receipt of sale (where applicable).
  • Prescribed transfer tax and fee.

The application is processed on the same day.

How much does it cost?

The transfer fee is TT$10.00. The transfer taxes vary according to the (license) age of the vehicle:

New Transfer Taxes (as of October 1 2009):

Cars

Procedure:

  • Complete the Transfer Form which is obtained at the information counter
  • Take the vehicle to the Inspection Shed
  • Return to the main office until called to the transfer counter
  • Pay at cashier (usually closes at 3:00 pm)
  • Done

Note:

  • Both parties must be present at the counter
  • Both parties must each have two (2) forms of identification
  • A Receipt with the new owner’s name must be presented
  • Insurance in the name of the buyer must be presented (cover note will suffice)
  • Transfer must be effected within seven days of Sales Receipt

Licensing Offices in T&T where transfers can be done:

  • Wrightson Road, Port of Spain
  • By-Pass, San Fernando
  • Milford Road, Tobago

Taxes are applied to date of 1st registration in Trinidad & Tobago (license plate series), not year of manufacture.

T&T License Plate/Age Guide