Vehicle ownership transfer online: how to proceed in France?

Publié par Eplaque - 6 min de lecture ⏳

Le 30/11/2021 - Mis à jour le 31/08/2023

In France, license plates are assigned to a vehicle, and not to a person. When a vehicle ownership changes, it must be registered within 30 days following the transfer. This is applicable in case of a sale of a used vehicle, a donation or an inheritance. Eplaque is authorized to process online vehicle ownership transfer requests in France. Get support in English from the car registration specialist since 2009. Fast processing, and support in Shakespeare’s language guaranteed! And we can also make your license plates!

Transfer ownership of your car in English

For vehicles still registered in the old registration system (FNI, which is evrything but the SIV « AA-001-AA » French plate format), the change of ownership of a vehicle requires the assignment of a new registration number. However, the process is absolutely identical.

Vehicle ownership transfer online in France: how to change ownership of a car in France?

Eplaque is one of the authorized service providers approved by the Ministry of the Interior to carry out, on behalf of new owners, the procedure for changing the name of the registration certificate holder. With this simplified online procedure, we support you step by step by advising you every document you must submit so that your file is complete at the first shot. When all the papers are in our possession, we take care of submitting your French vehicle ownership transfer request. You don’t need to deal with the ANTS (French only). Once processed, the carte grise will be printed by the Imprimerie Nationale and sent by registered mail to the address of the holder. This takes a few days.

Change vehicle ownership online with the ANTS

You can change the owner of the car certificate yourself through the paperless procedures of the ANTS. Please note that in order to put the registration document in your name with them, you must have the transfer code (code de cession) in your possession. This implies that the previous owner communicated it to you, and that he communicated via this entity the ownership transfer (déclaration de cession). In all cases, you can entrust us with your vehicle ownership transfer in France. We will verify that you are the legitimate purchaser by asking you to provide us with specific documents, such as a copy of the transfer certificate, as well as a proof of identity.

Documents for a transfer of motor vehicle ownership in France

Here are the papers required for a change of vehicle ownership on the “gray card” (carte grise) following the purchase of a used vehicle, or a donation:

A completed Cerfa 13750*07
Filled Cerfa 15776*02 form (document signed by the seller and you, « déclaration de cession »)
The original carte grise crossed out, dated and signed by the previous owner
Driving license (French or foreign) as a proof of identity (because you must anyway provide a copy of your driving license)
Proof of address in France
Proof of insurance
For vehicles subjected to French MOT, proof of less than 6 months (or 2 months if of a follow-up visit has been requested due to faults)
If you bought the car to a dealer, garage, etc. : “déclaration d’achat” (purchase declaration)

Please note that if your driving license is not in French, you must provide a copy of the international driving permit (required to drive in France anyway) or a certified translation.

Confidential code, transfer code and car ownership transfer

If you have sold your car and you wish to declare the ownership transfer, which is mandatory to allow the purchaser of your vehicle to submit his own ownership transfer request, you will have to provide your confidential code. This code was in the envelope that contained your registration certificate. If you lost it, you can request a new confidential code through the ANTS.

To avoid these difficulties, you can also register the déclaration de cession via an authorized service provider such as Plaque. Once the transfer is registered with the ANTS, the system will provide you with a transfer code (code de cession) that you will have to provide the buyer with. This code will be essential for him to reflect the new owner of the registration certificate. However, there is a way to make the change of owner procedure without a transfer code. Namely, making the change of holder through an agent such as Eplaque.

Buying a car in France: what to know as a foreigner, pitfalls

The above concerns the purchase of a vehicle which already has French plates. For foreign cars, please check our page about registering an imported car (with EU car license plates or not).

When someone is selling you a car in France, make sure of the following:

Get from the seller an MOT (contrôle technique) of less than 6 months. This is mandatory by law, in order to minimize the risk of buying a car with serious problems. To submit a vehicle ownership transfer online in France, you must satisfy this condition. If not, you’ll have to pass a new MOT yourself
Check that the seller’s name on the transfer certificate (certificat de cession) matches with the name on the car registration certificate (unless you buy the car to a garage, see below). The problem is the following: some people don’t register the transfer when they buy a used car, they keep driving with the car registration certificate handed over to them by the seller, without paying due taxes (and avoiding tickets, that are sent to the previous owner). Then they might sell the car « as is » to an uninformed buyer. Once the mismatch is identified, it is impossible to proceed with the transfer because it is all illegal. The seller has to provide to the buyer a new car registration certificate at his name or take back his car. This situation leads to many problems that must be avoided at all costs
Request the “administrative situation certificate” (less than 2 weeks). This document states any encumbrance, financial or legal, related to the vehicle. For example, whether there is an ongoing loan, unpaid tickets, if the vehicle is stolen, salvage status, etc. This certificate must be clear, otherwise you won’t be able to proceed with the ownership transfer request
If you buy a car to a French dealer, it is normal that the “carte grise” holder is another person or legal entity. When a garage buys a used car, it doesn’t have to issue a new car registration certificate. Instead, he must declare the purchase through a special procedure. If you buy a car to a professional, you must get this document (declaration d’achat) in order to register the vehicle in France

Vehicle ownership transfer in France FAQ

ANTS requests from me to authenticate with France Connect: what is it?

France Connect is some kind of unified login. It is a bit similar to using your Facebook account to login to many other websites and services. The difference being that France Connect is an official service. Once you own an account with the few digital identity providers (like the tax office, etc.), you can use it through France Connect network of participants, such as the ANTS. As a foreigner, La Poste is your best bet to open a France Connect account. Such is required to perform most of the car registration requests with the ANTS. Included any online vehicle ownership transfer in France.

Can I transfer ownership of a vehicle online in France?

Yes, you can change ownership of a vehicle online ! Actually, online car ownership transfer is the most common way. With Eplaque, you can even do it in English.

How to change ownership of a car in France ?

The seller has to fill a « cession certificate » (Cerfa 15776) with the buyer. The seller must then declare the car owner change (« enregistrement de cession », we can hande such request). The buyer has to request the vehicle ownership transfer online, for example with us. A new car registration certificate will then be sent to the address of the owner.

How to tax a car after change of ownership in France ?

All taxes due are paid during the change of ownership. There is no yearly car tax in France.

How to change ownership of a car when someone dies ?

How to change ownership of a car after death ? You’ll need special documents from the notary, or authorization from every heir in order to transfer the ownership of a deceased car owner.

What is the ANTS?

It’s a public service that handles French car registration certificates, driving licenses and ID. About its car division, it’s more or less the equivalent of the British DVLA.

Can you change ownership of a vehicle online without v5 (« carte grise »)

As a general rule, no. However, if there are good reasons for this document to be missing, it’s possible. For example when the vehicle is very old. Still, you’ll have to provide evidence that you are the rightful owner to be granted a carte grise.

Can I transfer a registration number to another vehicle?

No, transferring a number plate to another vehicle is not possible in France.

Une question ?

Nous vous répondrons dans les meilleurs délais.

Les questions des utilisateurs

Gianluca

20 septembre 2023

Hello i buy a auto in france and i want to take the auto in my name i have the old papers from the seller that i buy with him signature but i dont know how to proceed to take out the papers in my name. Im waiting for a contact thank you!

Eplaque

21 septembre 2023

Everything is explained on this page, please have a look. If you have further questions we remain at your disposal : 01 84 80 28 27 or contact@eplaque.fr

Kevin Russell

18 septembre 2023

I want to change ownership of a french car which has the old format registration number plate....so it will change. I also want to order new number plates at the same time but the online tool is showing how my number plate will look with the old registration number...which I will not need and don't know the new registration as it has not been allocated yet. Please advise. Kind regards Kevin

Eplaque

19 septembre 2023

I could replicate the issue. I think that you would get the plates with the new registration number (that we cannot know, indeed), but I have contacted our technical team about it. I'll update this message once I know more.

Sara

15 septembre 2023

Hello! I bought a used car from Mercedes, and only have a digital version of the old carte grise (from 2022). Here, it says I need "The original carte grise crossed out, dated and signed by the previous owner". How can I do this when I only have a digital version?

Eplaque

18 septembre 2023

In principe yes, you need the physical carte grise, for 2 reasons: 1. Because it has the "coupon detachable", that piece of paper mentioning the name of the new owner, that must be kept in order to drive the car until the new carte grise is issued 2. To go in the paperwork required for the ownership transfer if you deal with a physical company specialized in registration However, if you submit electronically the ownership transfer request, it's not required.
Sara

18 septembre 2023

Thank you for the reply! I intend to use your, eplaque´s, service. Just to be sure, so I need it then?

Eplaque

19 septembre 2023

Yes, because legally we have to follow the rules.

Abigail Summer

8 août 2023

I have agreed to buy a car from the heirs of a person who sadly died more than three months ago. The heirs live in the UK and no-one has driven the car on a public road. The car has a valid CT, more than six months old. The heirs do not want to change the ownership to them or drive the car, but I believe the car must have a CT less then six months. I have agreed to insure the car in my name before the transfer of ownership to get a new CT. Is this the right thing to do? Otherwise how can a new CT be obtained without actually driving the car?

Eplaque

8 août 2023

The law says that the car cannot be used, which is not really specific in terms of usage. My understanding is that the vehicle cannot be used for personal purposes. If you just drive the car to get the MOT, it remains in the spirit of the law as you perform a task to facilitate the transaction. Otherwise, to follow it to the letter the car would have to be towed.
Abigail Summer

26 août 2023

Thank you. That is exactly what I did and all seems to be good.

Dorey-Adams

5 août 2023

Can a co titulaire sell a second hand vehicle without the heirs consent and what documentation is requred

Eplaque

7 août 2023

No, the ownership transfer won't be allowed without their written consent.

Kerry Clarke

3 août 2023

Hi There, I have purchased a car from a friend who had to leave France for Australia. The car has run out of CT and the carte gris is in the previous owners name. It is clear that my friend did not change the carte gris into his name. What is the best way for me to change official ownership to myself? Should I get a CT done first? At least if I get contra visite I can change ownership with the previous owner no? I will appreciate any help.. Kerry

Eplaque

4 août 2023

Unfortunately you won't be able to change ownership if the carte grise holder's name doesn't match with the seller's name. Either you need a "certificat de cession" signed by the previous owner (and that would only work if he didn't register the sale on your friend's name at the time), or you friend must get a new carte grise on his name and hand it over to you.

shlomo Taasan

7 juillet 2023

How to add my partner (spouse) as an owner of my car

Eplaque

10 juillet 2023

There is a procedure called "ajout de cotitulaire sur la carte grise" to add a co-owner. We can do it for you in English, email us if you are interested.

Jerrin

22 février 2023

Hi, I had a motor bike, and sold, but the buyer has not yet changed the paper. There I received the speed fine to my address. What should I do?

Eplaque

23 février 2023

Did you notify your vehicle ownership transfer? It seems that you didn't, therefore it has to be done ASAP. Meanwhile, you can dispute the fine by denouncing him.

Stephen Broadbent

19 février 2023

I am buying a car from a friend in France and I am going to use your service, (thank heaven it's available 😊 What paperwork do I need to fill in and what other paperwork will you need from me and the seller. Also is it just a matter of scanning whatever is needed and the emailed to you or is it by post. I am in department 16. Regards Steve

Eplaque

20 février 2023

Thanks for your trust. Required paperwork is listed on this page under the title: "Documents for a transfer of motor vehicle ownership in France". You can scan them or send them by post, it's up to you.

Mike Delves

5 février 2023

Hi, My friend is giving me a French registered car, no money involved, do I need to complete Cerfa 13750*07 for this? Thanks Mike

Eplaque

6 février 2023

Yes, this form must always be filled since it is meant to inform authorities about ownership transfer (whether the car is sold, given for free, scrapped...).

Peter

17 janvier 2023

Good morning, Joachim I was in touch before with you. My car, on French plates, broke down after I moved back to England and I had to get it scrapped in England at an official UK Government approved site. I wrote to ANTS in November 2022 but had no reply? After research and contacting you I am trying to register the destruction online with ANTS but find there are certain sections I cannot complete as they assume scrapping took place in France and make no allowance I can see for scrapping in another country? If I need to complete the Form 15776 how do I send it to them and also how do I send ANTS the crossed-through Certificat d'Immatriculation and which address? I have 33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris? I am really stuck and wondered if you can help or guide me? Also, I cannot find an email contact for ANTS so I can advise them of the situation? Very grateful if you can assist me in any way? Sincerely Peter

Eplaque

18 janvier 2023

You cannot just send the document. You have to do a "declaration de cession", which is about ownership transfer (scrapping falls into that, the new "owner" being the scrapping company). If you struggle with the ANTS, you can use our service to do it. We can even assist in English, mail us at contact@eplaque.fr and we will sort it out for you.

Yasen

16 janvier 2023

Hello, I would like to buy a caravan from France and export it in EU. Where I can get an insurance for the travel.

Eplaque

16 janvier 2023

You can ask a quote to any French insurance company.

craig

5 janvier 2023

Hello im an australian with German residencie i am selling my German registered car to a French person in France, how do i go about the transfer/sales process,

Eplaque

5 janvier 2023

You have to follow the rules in Germany. The buyer will probably ask you to fill a "certificat de cession" to facilitate the registration process in France, or at least an invoice.

Sarah Jarvis

16 décembre 2022

I own a 2001 Renault Laguna Estate purchased in France when I was there in 2008. it has been in storage in Merano, Italy since 2012 and only used once there in 2015 as i tried to sell it . I am a resident of New Zealand and now have no address in any EU country. Can I cancel the French registration and register the car in Italy even on a temporary basis with their "EE" Plates so it can be used or sold. I can get the 'Revision ' done in Italy but driving it to France to do this seems a mission.

Eplaque

19 décembre 2022

Yes you can proceed like this.

stefan

14 décembre 2022

i would like to inport a car from germany. do you do transit plates as well?

Eplaque

15 décembre 2022

We deal with WW plates, but bear in mind that those cannot be used to drive the car from Germany to France, you can only use them once the car has crossed the border (and then you can go back to Germany with them; as absurd as it sounds, it's the rule. Some people do get French WW and use them from Germany, still it's not legal). To that end you need German temporary plates.

Lynn

22 novembre 2022

I bought a used car from a garage it was almost 8 weeks and still no carte gris. I have emailed several times and they say the system is slow. Is this correct, can I. Intact ants direct to see where the carte gris is? Thank you

Eplaque

22 novembre 2022

If it is an imported car, it is probably true, it takes time. If the car was already registered in France, it's not normal. Best is to inquire with the ANTS, to check if a request exists and what is going on.

Mary

9 novembre 2022

My former partner and myself are registered on the carte gris as joint owners of a vehicle which he still drives. We are separated and I now live in the UK. We agree that my name should be removed from the carte gris. How do we do this and Which forms do I need to sign?

Eplaque

10 novembre 2022

It depends, who is the "main owner" (titulaire) on the certificate?

Julie Ryves

31 octobre 2022

Hi iam being gifted a motor home that is in France and registered there. What documents do I need to sign and check so I know the vehicle will belong to me when it's arrived in England.

Eplaque

1 novembre 2022

You have to fill a "certificat de cession" (Cerfa 15776) with the giver, get the registration certificate of the motor home (crossed, signed and dated by the previous owner) and the "certificat de situation administrative".

Lulio

4 octobre 2022

My mom, a resident in France wants to give her car to me, but I don't have a residency in France. Is it still possible?

Eplaque

5 octobre 2022

She can give it to you, but you'll have to register it in your home country; you need a French proof of address to register a car in France.

Keith

26 août 2022

My friends are trying to give me their car because they're going back to the UK and don't need it. They don't have a France Connect account, so I've helped them begin the ANTS process - they now have an account at ANTS and we've started filling in the online form. Now the website is asking for the confidential code, which they don't have, and I have clicked the link for 'Demander un nouveau code'. It's supposed to be sent by email within 24 hours, but that was 2 days ago and it hasn't arrived. They are leaving in a week's time. Is the ANTS service reliable and will we get the code in time? If not, what should we do?

Eplaque

29 août 2022

Emails should be instant. Have they checked in their spam folder? Unfortunately there are "hiccups". That's why private services like our exist. If you don't manage with them, we can handle the transfer.

Ann Justice

8 juillet 2022

Jusqu'à maintenant ma voiture a fait l'objet d'un contrat de location mais nous avons maintenant effectué le paiement final afin qu'elle soit la propriété de mon mari. L’entreprise de la finance m'a informé qu'ils enverront le certificat de cession dans environ trois semaines afin que nous puissions changer la carte grise. Nous serons à l'étranger lorsque le certificat arrivera et nous reviendrons le 17 août. Pourrons-nous encore conduire la voiture d'ici là et serons-nous toujours assurés pour le faire ? Merci beaucoup pour vos conseils.

Eplaque

11 juillet 2022

Until the ownership transfer is official, the car remains the property of the leasing company, with you as "user". From that perspective, all is good. Of course, the vehicle must be insured. We assume it will be until the ownership transfer is official, however we advise you to double check with the leasing company.

ANTHONY HEATH

30 juin 2022

I wish to change the name on the carte grise from mine to that of my wife.

Eplaque

30 juin 2022

You have to fill with your wife a Cerfa 15776 form, declare online the "cession", then change the owner on the carte grise (changement de titulaire).

TIJANI

11 mai 2022

Je n'ai pas encore de document français mais j'ai un passeport nigérian, j'achète une voiture en France s'il vous plaît puis-je changer de propriétaire à mon nom ?

Eplaque

12 mai 2022

Oui, un passeport étranger est un justificatif d'identité valable.

Christine Winter

12 avril 2022

can the paperwork be sent and where to I am unabler to do on line

Eplaque

12 avril 2022

Yes of course, the address is Eplaque - 34, rue de la forêt - 91860 Epinay-Sous-Sénart.

John gorman

19 mars 2022

Due to a mix up my vehicle ended up being registered in my brothers name, I have a bill of sale in my name he has since gone to the Middle East (uncontactable) can I get it reregistered in my name???

Eplaque

20 mars 2022

No, his signature on a "certificat de cession" is needed in order to transfer ownership.

Rhona Gray

15 mars 2022

We believe we transferred ownership online but never received a new registration document. Can you check whether the change of ownership did actually happen?

Eplaque

16 mars 2022

You should check the status of the request in your ANTS account or contact them. Alternatively, you can try to request a "certificat de situation adminitrative" based on the old carte grise here. If you can get the document, it means that the change of ownership is not registered.

Paul langley

12 mars 2022

Can I put my wife on the carte gris or give her my car free and what will the costs be

Eplaque

14 mars 2022

Yes. In each case you'll have to pay the full transfer costs, that depends on the administrative power of the car (chevaux fiscaux, you can check it out in P.6 on the carte grise) and the region where you live. It's from 30 to 50 EUR per CV + flat fee of EUR 13.76.