Selling a car in Thailand involves a transfer of ownership at the Department of Land Transport (กรมการขนส่งทางบก — DLT). Understanding the required documents and steps in advance means the sale can be completed smoothly in a single visit.
Vehicle registration book (สมุดคู่มือจดทะเบียนรถ)
The vehicle registration book (สมุดคู่มือจดทะเบียนรถ) is the single most important document for any car sale in Thailand. It records the vehicle's details and current owner, and is managed by the DLT.
- Must be handed to the buyer: The registration book is transferred to the new owner as part of the ownership change process.
- Registration must be current: Annual registration tax (ภาษีรถ) must be paid and up to date. Overdue registration tax must be paid before the transfer.
- Lost registration book: Apply for a replacement at your DLT office before listing the car.
Compulsory motor insurance (พ.ร.บ.)
The compulsory motor insurance (พ.ร.บ. — Por Ror Bor) is mandatory for all vehicles in Thailand and must be valid at the time of the registration transfer.
- Valid certificate required: The DLT checks that the compulsory insurance is current during the transfer process.
- Annual renewal: Compulsory insurance is renewed annually, typically at the same time as the vehicle registration tax.
Ownership transfer at the DLT
Ownership transfer must be completed at the DLT provincial office (สำนักงานขนส่งจังหวัด) in the province where the vehicle is registered.
- Both parties present: Both seller and buyer (or their authorised representatives) must attend in person.
- Documents required: Vehicle registration book, national ID cards (บัตรประชาชน) for both parties, a signed Sales Agreement, valid compulsory insurance, and no outstanding registration tax.
- Transfer fee: The DLT charges a transfer fee based on vehicle age and engine size.
Sales Agreement and practical tips
- Always prepare a written Sales Agreement (สัญญาซื้อขาย) with vehicle details, price, date, and signatures of both parties.
- Check the vehicle for any outstanding fines or encumbrances before listing — the buyer can verify this at the DLT.
- If the vehicle is under a hire purchase (leasing/financing), you must fully settle and obtain a release before selling.