Vehicle transfer in Cyprus is the official process of changing the ownership of a motor vehicle. Every time a car changes hands, the procedure must be completed correctly to ensure the new ownership is recorded by the Road Transport Department (RTD) and to avoid any legal or financial complications.
At Trust Insurance Cyprus, we provide full guidance so that every stage of the process—from signing the documents to getting on the road—is carried out with the highest possible level of security and legality.
1. Preparation and Essential Documents
Required Documents:
- A. Title Deed (Registration Certificate / Logbook)
Check that the Chassis Number (VIN) and engine details match the vehicle.
- B. TOM 9B Form
This is the official "Application for Transfer of Ownership of a Motor Vehicle" form. It must be completed in capital letters and signed by both the seller and the buyer. If the seller is a company, the stamp and signature of an authorised director are required.
- C. Certificate of Roadworthiness (MOT)
The vehicle must have a valid MOT certificate. The transfer will be blocked if the MOT has expired.
- D. Road Tax Licence
The road tax must be valid. If the vehicle is currently declared as "off the road" (SORN), the arrears must be settled before the transfer.
- E. Motor Insurance in the Buyer’s Name
It is essential to present an original Certificate of Insurance in the name of the new owner, with a minimum duration of 3 months.
- F. Identification Documents
Both parties must provide:
- Identity Card or Passport.
- Alien Registration Certificate (ARC) for non-Cypriot residents.
- G. Vehicle Recalls
Check that there are no outstanding recalls. If there are, forms TOM 369–372 are required available at ev.gov.cy).
2. The Procedure
Step 1: Check for Encumbrances (Memos)
Ensure the vehicle is "clear" and has no bank liens, claims, or court warrants against it.
Step 2: Visit the Competent Authority – By Appointment (if required)
The transfer can be completed at:
- District Offices of the Road Transport Department (RTD).
- Citizen Service Centres (CSC/KEP).
- Citizen Centres (KE.PO) at District Post Offices.
If one party cannot attend in person, a certified signature from a Community Leader (Mukhtar) or a Certifying Officer is required.
Step 3: Payment of Fees
The transfer fee is €8.54, payable on-site by card or cash.
Step 4: Finalising the Change of Ownership
The change is registered in the RTD system. The new owner will receive the new Registration Certificate (logbook) by post.
3. Vehicle Insurance
Insurance contracts are personal. Upon transfer:
- The seller's insurance ceases to be valid.
- The buyer must have issued their own insurance before completing the process (minimum 3-month duration).
Important: The RTD system requires active insurance in the new owner's name to finalise the transfer.
Trust Motor Comprehensive insurance from Trust Insurance offers full coverage from day one, including:
- Damage to your own vehicle.
- Theft and Fire.
- Natural phenomena.
- Windscreen cover.
- 24/7 Breakdown recovery.
4. Special Cases
A. Transfer due to Death
A Grant of Probate or a Will is required, along with documents from the Administrator of the estate.
B. Transfer from/to a Company
Certificates from the Registrar of Companies are required to verify authorised signatures.
C. Imported Used Cars
First registration requires customs clearance documents, a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and an inspection by the RTD.
5. Financial and Technical Inspection
Before the transfer:
- Request a full maintenance history.
- Check the chassis for damage.
- Inspect the mechanical condition.
- Take a test drive.
- Verify the mileage.
6. Common Mistakes
- Paying the seller before signing the official forms.
- Neglecting to update the RTD.
- Incorrect insurance or under-insuring the vehicle.
7. Vehicle Transfer Checklist
- Identity Card / Passport.
- Title Deed (Logbook).
- TOM 9B form (completed and signed).
- Insurance Certificate in the buyer's name (Trust Motor Comprehensive recommended).
- Recall Check and Certificate (TOM 369–372 if applicable).
- Road Tax (Active).
- Encumbrance Check (Memo).
- Valid MOT.
- Authorisation for absence (certified signature).
Tips:
Do not drive without your own insurance and keep a copy of the TOM 9B form until the new logbook is issued.
Until the registration is officially completed at the RTD, the registered owner remains responsible for:
- Traffic violations.
- Fines or fixed penalties.
- Road tax fees.
Promptly completing the transfer protects both parties.
Trust is the Key
Transferring a vehicle in Cyprus is a straightforward process as long as the correct steps are followed. At Trust Insurance Cyprus , our goal is to be your partner on every journey. With our Motor Comprehensive plan , we ensure your new vehicle is protected by a company that combines international expertise with local specialist knowledge. Before your next vehicle transfer, contact us to design the insurance plan that best fits your needs.
FAQs
1. Can a transfer take place without the seller being present?
Yes, provided there is a written authorisation with a certified signature.
2. Where can I complete the vehicle transfer?
At RTD district offices, Citizen Service Centres (CSC), or KE.PO centres at Post Offices.
3. When does the buyer receive the new Registration Certificate (logbook)?
It is sent by post after the procedure is completed.
