What paperwork when buying?

What paperwork is needed when buying a used car in a private sale? Bizarre this is not discussed anywhere (or, if it is, not easily discoverable!) In the US you get the car title and a bill of sale, but in Ireland I believe it is different.

11.04.2017

Our answer:

Hi Paul,

Well, it’s pretty straightforward. Each car has a Vehicle Licensing Certificate — essentially the same thing as a US title document, and when buying a used car you and the vendor fill in the form at the back of the Certificate, and send it off to the Driver and Vehicle Computer Services Division of the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, which is in Shannon. It will then be sent back to you with your name as the new owner of the vehicle.

While there is no official requirement for a Bill Of Sale or equivalent, if you’re buying from a dealer you will be issued with some form or receipt of sale, normally an invoice stamped as paid, and you should always ask for some form of written, signed receipt when buying from a private seller.

Beyond that, you should also be looking for the rest of the car’s paperwork, including proof of prior motor tax, any NCT certificates, the all-important service history and any other proofs of maintenance or repair.

Answered by Shane O'Donoghue
18.04.2017

Have a motoring question? Ask us here!

Ask us anything motoring related and please provide as much information as possible so we can give you the most accurate advice.