How to Transfer Car Ownership in Ireland

The change of car ownership in Ireland is a significant step for anyone behind the wheel. Whether you're gearing up to buy, sell or simply transfer ownership, understanding the process is crucial. In this guide, we'll explore the details of changing car ownership in Ireland. So, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need for a seamless transition. As your go-to car insurance provider, we're here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you're covered and confident on the road ahead. 

 

Understanding the Basics

When it comes to the change of car ownership in Ireland, understanding the fundamentals is key. Ownership isn't just about possession; it entails a bundle of legal rights and responsibilities, allowing individuals to use, control, and dispose of their vehicles. The change of car ownership involves the lawful handover of these rights from one party to another. This often occurs through a sale, gift, or inheritance. Understanding these fundamental principles is essential for a smooth and legally sound change of car ownership in Ireland. 

 

Documentation Required

Before you kickstart the change of car ownership journey in Ireland, it's crucial to ensure your paperwork, particularly the log book, is in order. The logbook holds pivotal information such as the vehicle's
registration number, make and model, engine specifications, and the identity of its current custodian. Additionally, a valid form of identification, such as a driver's licence or passport, serves as the passport to verify the identities of the parties involved in the ownership tango. 

 

What’s New: Online Change of Ownership for Private Sales

Previously, private sellers and buyers had to fill out the back of the Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) and post it to the Department of Transport in Shannon.

Now, as of late 2024, private (non-trade) vehicle ownership transfers can be done entirely online. 

The new Online Change of Vehicle Ownership service is live at vehicleservices.gov.ie/cvo or accessible through MotorTax.ie. It allows real-time transfers between private individuals and gives buyers access to useful vehicle info before purchase, including motor tax status, number of previous owners, test status, and whether the vehicle was imported.

Here’s how it works:

1. The seller logs in and enters vehicle details to generate a unique one-time transfer code.

2. The buyer receives the code, logs in via MyGovID, and completes the transfer online.

This gives instant confirmation for both parties and eliminates the need to post forms or visit an office. It’s a faster, more transparent process – especially useful in the case of private sales.

Selling Your Vehicle: Private Sale vs. Motor Dealer Sale

A. If you buy or sell a vehicle privately

You can now complete the entire process online using the new digital service (see above), but if you still have a physical VRC and choose to do it the traditional way, the steps remain: 

1. Complete and sign the change of car ownership section on the back of the Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC).

2. The buyer must also sign the same form.

3. Send the completed form to:

Department of Transport, Shannon Town Centre, Shannon, Clare, Ireland 

4. The Department will then post the VRC to the new owner

To learn more about buying a second-hand vehicle in Ireland, visit our guide.  

 

B. If you sell your vehicle to a motor dealer

When selling your vehicle to a motor dealer, the process differs slightly: 

1. Hand over the Vehicle Registration Certificate to the dealer.

2. Both the seller and the dealer must complete the Form RF105.  

3. An approved dealer can use the online trade portal to notify the change. Alternatively, the seller must post the RF105 to the Department of Transport.

By following these steps diligently, you can ensure a hassle-free transfer of ownership, whether selling privately or to a motor dealer.
 

Online Options

The move to digital is a welcome one for car owners across Ireland. While MotorTax.ie previously only offered guidance, you can now complete private transfers directly online through the new vehicle services portal.

MotorTax.ie still serves as a helpful hub for:

• Vehicle registration guidance

• Replacement VRC applications

• Info on vehicles never before taxed or registered before Jan 1st, 1993

• Ownership changes following the death of the owner

 

Additional Resources

Looking for more detail? These official sites have up-to-date info on transferring car ownership in Ireland:

• Gov.ie – Change of Vehicle Ownership

• Citizens Information – Change of Ownership

• MotorTax.ie – Vehicle Ownership Guide

Replacement Documents for Vehicle Ownership Changes

Need to replace important vehicle documents due to ownership changes? Here's what you need to know about the replacement process: 

 

Replacement Documents and Costs

a. Registration book: Replacement cost of €12 

b. Vehicle Registration Certificate: Replacement cost of €12 

c. Tax disc: Replacement cost of €6 

 

Obtaining Replacement Documents

a. Download and complete form RF134 (pdf). 

b. Head to your local Garda station to have the form witnessed by a member of the Garda Síochána. 

c. Send the completed form, along with the applicable fee, to your nearby motor tax office. 

 

Payment Methods

Cheques, postal orders, or bank drafts made payable to your local motor tax office are accepted.

 

As you wrap up this journey through the ins and outs of the change of car ownership in Ireland, remember the importance of protecting your wheels. Make sure your ride is covered with top-notch car insurance from CoverInAClick.ie, your go-to ally in the world of vehicle protection. Ready to snag a custom car insurance quote? Explore our website today!