Since the implementation of the new generation prefectures plan, it is no longer possible to submit a registration certificate application at the counter of a prefecture. The change of ownership of the registration certificate now goes through the ANTS website or through an authorized professional.
The digital kiosks installed in certain prefectures are only used to assist users in online entry, not to receive paper documents. This framework changes the way supporting documents are prepared and transmitted.
Legal deadline and provisional registration certificate
The buyer of a used vehicle has one month from the date of transfer to submit their application. After this deadline, they risk a fine. This point is often relegated to the end of the article, whereas it conditions the rest of the application.
During the processing of the application, the ANTS issues a provisional registration certificate (CPI) that allows the vehicle to be driven for one month. This document can be downloaded directly from the user’s ANTS account. It does not replace the final registration certificate, but it allows for legal driving while waiting for its receipt by mail.
The procedure for changing the registration certificate at the prefecture therefore requires anticipation: gathering the documents before signing the transfer certificate avoids losing days on an already tight deadline.
Administrative situation certificate: the document that buyers forget
The administrative situation certificate, commonly known as the non-pledge certificate, must be dated less than fifteen days at the time of transfer. It certifies that the vehicle is not subject to any pledge, opposition, or theft procedure.
It is the seller’s responsibility to provide it. They can download it for free from the ANTS website or via the Histovec portal. The buyer should verify it themselves before signing anything.
A pledged vehicle can be sold, but the pledge must be lifted before any request for a change of ownership. If the administrative situation certificate mentions an active pledge, the registration application will be blocked. Field reports vary on the speed of lifting a pledge with financial institutions: some process the request in a few days, while others take several weeks.
Used vehicle registration file: the documents to digitize
All documents must be submitted in digitized form (scan or readable photo). A blurry or truncated document will result in the rejection of the file and prolong the process. Here are the required documents for a classic change of ownership between individuals:
- The original registration certificate crossed out by the previous owner, bearing the mention “sold on” followed by the date, time, and their signature. If the vehicle has multiple co-owners, each must sign.
- The transfer certificate (cerfa 15776) filled out and signed by the seller and the buyer. At least two original copies should be kept.
- The application for a registration certificate (cerfa 13750), signed by the new owner.
- A valid identity document (national identity card, passport, or residence permit).
- A proof of residence dated less than six months ago (utility bill, tax notice, rent receipt).
- A copy of the new owner’s driving license, corresponding to the vehicle category.
- The vehicle insurance certificate in the name of the new owner.
Technical inspection: when is it required
The technical inspection report is required only if the vehicle is more than four years old. It must be dated less than six months at the time of the request, or less than two months if a re-inspection has been prescribed.
For vehicles less than four years old, no technical inspection is necessary. Classic vehicles and certain agricultural vehicles are subject to specific rules that are not covered by the standard procedure.
Particular cases that complicate the registration file
Co-owners on the new registration certificate
If the vehicle is purchased by a couple or multiple people, each co-owner must provide an identity document. Only the main owner provides proof of residence. However, each co-owner signs the application for the registration certificate.
Vehicle purchased from a professional
When the seller is a mechanic or a car dealer, the transfer certificate bears the stamp and SIRET number of the professional. The registration mandate is often signed in favor of the garage, which carries out the process on behalf of the buyer. In this case, an original registration mandate signed by the buyer is added to the file.
Imported vehicle or never registered in France
The first registration of an imported vehicle requires additional documents: tax clearance issued by public finances, European conformity certificate, and for vehicles outside the EU, a single reception report issued by the DREAL. The available data does not allow for listing all scenarios, as each country of origin may impose different deregistration formalities.
The rejection of a registration file usually comes from a missing or incorrectly filled document, not from a substantive issue. Checking the date of the administrative situation certificate, ensuring that the registration certificate is properly crossed out and signed, digitizing each document in full: these simple reflexes are enough to avoid back-and-forth with the ANTS and to meet the one-month deadline imposed after the purchase.
