How to transfer car ownership between emirates

You have finally found a buyer for your car, but the work has just begun - especially if you are looking to sell the vehicle to someone from another emirate.

Requirements differ across the country, but the process always begins with a trip to the licensing department. In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the traffic authorities require both parties be present, with a completed application form.

In addition to copies of a passport and driving licence, the department will request the vehicle registration card, an insurance policy in the new owner's name and a technical inspection certificate.

You may also need a no objection letter from your bank if there is an outstanding loan on the vehicle.

In Abu Dhabi, the process will cost Dh200 for light vehicles and Dh300 for vehicles heavier than 3 tonnes but less than 12. In Dubai, it will cost Dh430 for new number plates.

Unlike other emirates, Dubai will not provide export number plates to transport the vehicle from Dubai. The new owner must arrange for lorry transport to the new location, which costs Dh400 to Dh600.

"Export number plates are only for transporting outside of the country," a representative from the Roads and Transport Authority said. "These are the rules of Dubai."

The rule has been in place for nearly 10 years but was rarely enforced until this year, residents and towing companies said.

"From one week to the next, the rules changed," said J Mazad, a Dubai resident. "It makes sense that export plates are only for travelling outside the country, but now it is much more hassle to sell from Dubai to other emirates."

If selling the car from Abu Dhabi, the traffic and licensing department will provide export plates for the transport, a municipality official said.

The process would be the same for changing registration between emirates, even if the owner remains the same.

jthomas@thenational.ae