How to Transfer Ownership of a Vehicle in PNG

Transport & logistics Created by @deleted-user

Buyer and seller checklist for transferring the registration of a private motor vehicle through the RTA system, with forms, published fee, time limits and MVIL service information.

Fees, deadlines and important notes

RTA’s published Road Traffic (Fees and Charges) Regulation 2017, Schedule 1 item 24, specifies K115 for transfer of registration. Confirm today’s payable amount with MVIL or the registration service office; insurance, inspection, replacement documents and renewal may cost extra. Both original seller and buyer generally have 14 days from sale/disposal for their required notifications/applications. If a person sells as the owner’s agent, the agent’s notice obligation is 7 days.

Before you start — checklist

  • ☐ Original/current vehicle registration certificate and its reverse-side transfer details.
  • ☐ Registration number; make, model, colour, engine number, chassis number, year and other vehicle particulars.
  • ☐ Buyer’s full name, contact and PNG residential/postal address; acceptable ID as requested by the service agent.
  • ☐ Seller’s particulars, signed sale agreement/receipt recording date and vehicle identity (recommended evidence).
  • ☐ Payment for the transfer; check whether insurance, roadworthiness or registration renewal needs attention.
  • ☐ A written authorisation if someone is disposing of the vehicle on behalf of the owner.
This is a community information guide, not an official notice or legal/tax advice. Requirements and fees may change; confirm details with the responsible agency before applying.
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Guide progress Step 1 of 9

  1. Step 1

    Check the vehicle and paperwork before paying

    Compare the engine and chassis identifiers on the vehicle against the registration certificate. Check that the person selling is the registered owner, confirm registration and insurance status, and ask about finance/security interests. A signed sale receipt is strongly recommended as evidence; it is not a substitute for transfer.

  2. Step 2

    Write a dated sale agreement/receipt

    Record both parties’ names and contact details, registration number, chassis/engine numbers, sale date, amount paid, and signatures. Keep a copy each. For agency sales, obtain written authority from the registered owner.

  3. Step 3

    Seller completes the registration certificate notice

    The registered seller should complete the back of the certificate of registration with the new owner’s name and address and submit/produce it to the registration authority within 14 days. Someone selling on behalf of an owner has a 7-day notification rule and must provide written authority.

  4. Step 4

    Buyer completes Form 8

    Download RTA Form 8: Application for Transfer of Registration of Motor Vehicle. Enter buyer and vehicle particulars accurately, sign in the presence of the required witness as indicated on the form, and check the fee. File within 14 days after purchase.

  5. Step 5

    Lodge with the service-delivery agent and pay

    The RTA sets the rules, while its published page identifies MVIL and some provincial governments as the service-delivery agents. Contact your local MVIL/registration office to confirm counter, appointment, required original documents, any identity/inspection requirements and current payment method. Pay the prescribed transfer fee and get a receipt.

  6. Step 6

    Collect proof registration was updated

    Confirm the registration record and new certificate show the buyer’s correct name and address. Keep a copy of the new certificate and the receipt; ensure third-party insurance and annual registration requirements remain up to date.

  7. Step 7

    Check special-use vehicles separately

    PMVs, taxis and private-hire vehicles can require a separate transport licence transfer and approval. Do not assume ordinary Form 8 alone authorises passenger transport work.

  8. Step 8

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Handing over money without checking the seller’s identity or chassis/engine numbers.
    • Keeping the registration in the old owner’s name after the sale.
    • Confusing private ownership transfer with a PMV/taxi operating-licence transfer.
    • Assuming the published K115 covers unpaid registration renewal, insurance or other service costs.

  9. Step 9

    Official sources and last-reviewed date

    Last researched: 8 October 2026. Verify the current forms, fees and process with the relevant agency or bank before proceeding.

Sources

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