Ownership transfer
Transfer of car ownership (meigi henko) in Japan
After buying from a private seller or receiving a car, the ownership must be transferred within 15 days.
Contents3
When
Private sale, gift between family or friends, inheritance… The transfer (移転登録) is done within 15 days at the Transport Bureau office covering the new owner’s .
The deadline: 15 days from the transfer
Sale, gift, inheritance
Transfer
Buyer
Garage certificate
From the seller
Get the documents
Transport Bureau
Register the transfer
Documents (regular car)
| Document | |
|---|---|
| Seller | |
| Transfer certificate (譲渡証明書) stamped with the registered seal | |
| Seal certificate (印鑑証明書, issued within 3 months) | |
| Power of attorney if someone applies on their behalf | |
| Buyer | |
| Seal certificate (within 3 months) | |
| Garage certificate (issued within about 1 month) | |
| Power of attorney if needed | |
| Both | |
| Vehicle inspection certificate () | |
| Forms available at the Transport Bureau | |
Foreign residents: you can register a personal seal (印鑑登録) at your city hall to obtain the seal certificate.
Kei cars
Kei car transfers are done at the 軽自動車検査協会 and are simpler: a resident record instead of a seal certificate, and an ordinary stamp.
FAQ
Can someone do it for me?
This site explains the general procedure and provides a tool to help you prepare your own documents. Forms, fees and required documents may differ by prefecture, police station or Transport Bureau office. Always check with the office in charge before applying.