Blog

Useful articles related to our services

How do I transfer ownership of a car in Thailand, Pattaya?

Many people dream of coming to Thailand. Some even decide to move here for a longer time and start a new life in Thailand. Whether you simply come here as a tourist for a two-week holiday or you wish to apply for residency, owning a car will make your stay more comfortable. Therefore, it is important to know how to transfer ownership of a car in Thailand. It is essential information to make your stay in Pattaya, Thailand legal and enjoyable. When buying a car, it is recommended to transfer its ownership to your name to avoid unpleasant surprises. It is not a difficult process and it also applies to motorcycles. 

We will provide you with all the information you need such as the documents you need for car ownership transfer in Thailand, Pattaya, where you should apply for it, and also the car tax and insurance. 

Are you interested in buying a car? Then you need to be informed about how to transfer ownership in Thailand. J&E Concierge is always ready to help you and provide you with the best legal services in Thailand.

What documents do you need to transfer ownership of a car in Thailand, Pattaya?

The first and most important information refers to the documents you have to present to transfer the ownership of a car in Thailand. Similar to other countries, you will have to prepare the documents in advance and present them to the authorized offices of the Department of Land Transport. You will have to request all the documents you need from the seller as he is not required to join you at the Department of Land Transport when you solicit the transfer of car ownership in Thailand. 

Transfer ownership of a new car in Thailand, Pattaya

If you decide to buy a new car from an authorized dealership, they will provide you with all the documents you need at the Department of Land Transport. Foreigners who decide to buy a new car in Thailand and register it to their name are required to present the following documents:

Once you have these documents you can register the car in your name and authorities will issue the Blue Book. You will be issued red numbers that are only temporary and white numbers will only be issued once the process is completed. Keep in mind that it may take up to six weeks. Also, cars with red temporary number plates can be driven only between 6 am and 6 pm. 

Buying a used car in Thailand

If you decide to buy a used car that is already registered in Thailand, you will have to present the following documents to transfer ownership of a car to your name in Thailand. 

  • If the buyer or seller are foreigner, you need to provide authorized copies of your passport, non-immigrant visa, work permit, or proof of residency
  • If the buyer or seller are Thai national, you need to present the ID card and House Registration Document 
  • Vehicle’s Blue Book provided by the seller
  • The car will have to pass a roadworthiness test if it is more than seven years old. 

The Blue Book is the official document of any car in Thailand. The transfer of ownership of a car in Thailand cannot be completed without it. It contains important information about all previous owners’ names and addresses as well as information about all taxes paid for that vehicle. Moreover, the Blue Book is a safety measure that will prove that the car has not been stolen. 

You can also read about How to obtain a Thai driving license

Where to solicit the transfer ownership of a car in Thailand?

The Department of Land Transport is the only institution authorized to transfer ownership of a car in Thailand. They have offices in every city in Thailand. However, you have to apply for ownership transfer of the car at the location where the car has been first registered. The process can take up to one to six weeks, depending on the number of people soliciting this service. The process is considered completed only after the permanent white numbers have been issued and your name has been registered in the Blue Book. 

If you have decided to transfer ownership of a car in Thailand, contact J&E Concierge Pattaya and avoid misinformation. We will provide you with the help you need and up-to-date information. 

You can also read about All The Information You Need for your Drivers License Extension in Pattaya

About car tax and car insurance in Thailand

Why are car tax and car insurance important when you transfer ownership of a car in Thailand? The car tax is an annual Thai tax that all car owners have to pay. You can easily check this as the car should have a sticker on the windscreen. This tax remains valid until it expires even though the car owner changes. To pay this tax you need to bring the vehicle’s Blue Book and car insurance to the Department of Land Transport. It is a mandatory tax in Thailand. 

Car insurance in Thailand or Compulsory Motor Insurance can be bought at any Department of Land Transport office or car and insurance dealership. It has to be renewed annually and three levels of insurance describe the degree of coverage: 1st class, 2nd class, and 3rd class. 

You can also read about All the useful information to renew the Thai driving license

How can J&E Concierge Pattaya help you transfer ownership of a car in Thailand?

J&E Concierge Pattaya can help you transfer ownership of a car in Thailand. It is not a complicated process once all your documents are well prepared. Your file will be analyzed and you will be issued the Blue Book of your vehicle. Now you can travel across Thailand and visit the most beautiful places the country has to offer. You can make the most of your time spent in Thailand without worrying about transport.