Thinking of buying or selling a used car in Malaysia?

Hold up - don't let the excitement make you skip the most important step: “properly transferring ownership!”

Yes, I've seen too many friends get stuck with fines, legal headaches, or even lose their new ride because they missed something simple.

Whether you're handing down the family car, scoring a sweet deal from a friend, or buying from a dealer, this guide will walk you through the entire process regardless of your situation.

Let’s get started!

Why Proper Ownership Transfer Matters?

• Legal Requirement - The new owner must register with JPJ within 14 days of sale (Section 14(1), Road Transport Act 1987).
• Avoid Liability - Without transfer, you remain responsible for traffic summonses or accidents.
• Easier Resale - Clean ownership history increases resale value.

Documents Needed for Car Ownership Transfer

For Sellers

• Original Geran (Vehicle Registration Certificate) or Grant Copy (if under bank loan)
• Copy of NRIC (front & back)
• Sales agreement (optional but recommended)
• Valid Motor Insurance (must cover transfer date)

For Buyers

• Original NRIC (or passport for foreigners)
• Road Tax Renewal (can be done after transfer)
• Valid Insurance Cover Note (under buyer’s name)
• PUSPAKOM Inspection Report (if required)

Step-by-Step Car Ownership Transfer Process

Step 1: Verify Vehicle & Seller Details

i) Check Geran matches seller’s IC.

ii) Confirm no outstanding loans (ask for bank release letter if financed).

Run a JPJ e-Bid check (RM10) for,

• Outstanding summonses
• Stolen vehicle status
• Pending legal issues

Step 2: Get PUSPAKOM Inspection (If needed)

Required if,

• Vehicle is 5+ years old
• Commercial vehicles (vans, lorries)
• Modified cars

Cost: RM50-RM100

You can get it at any PUSPAKOM center or at their official site

Step 3: Complete Transfer at JPJ

Option A - Online (via mySikap JPJ e-Services)

• Faster (processed in 1-2 days)
• No queues
• Print new Geran at JPJ later

Option B - In-Person (JPJ Counter)

• Fill JPJ K3A Form (seller & buyer must sign).
• Submit documents + RM100 fee (private cars).
• Get a temporary road tax (if the current one expired).

Step 4: Update Insurance & Road Tax

Buyer must insure the car under their name before driving and renew road tax via MyEG or JPJ portal.

Cost Breakdown (2025 Fees)

• JPJ Ownership Transfer Fee: RM100 (private) / RM200 (commercial)
• PUSPAKOM Inspection: RM50-RM100
• New Road Tax: Depends on engine size
• Insurance: Usually varies by coverage

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping PUSPAKOM (for older cars) - JPJ will reject the transfer.
• Not checking summonses - Buyer may refuse to pay your old fines.
• Delaying transfer - Seller risks liability for accidents/tolls.
• Fake Geran scams - Always verify with JPJ.

Final Tips

Now you know,

What documents you really need (no last-minute panic!)

• Where to save time (online vs counter tricks)
• How to avoid costly mistakes (that most first-timers make)

But wait! Why stress about paperwork at all?

At CarMine, we handle the entire transfer process for you from PUSPAKOM to JPJ paperwork, so you can,

• Skip the queues and headaches
• Get guaranteed FIS/BER certified cars
• Drive off with 100% legal peace of mind

If you are buying elsewhere, use this guide as your checklist! But if you are buying from CarMine, we'll do all this for you while you relax!

Skip the Hassle and visit CarMine today.