What documentation is required to transfer ownership of a private hire vehicle?

The transfer file consists of three sections, and there is one golden rule: submit it complete the first time, or you’ll have to come back to rectify it — and each rectification takes weeks. The checklist:

From the seller:

• Documentation of authorisation (the VTC licence) and proof of ownership: National Identity Card (DNI) if an individual; deeds, valid powers of attorney and identification of the signatory if a company.
• Certificates confirming that all tax and social security obligations are up to date — the owner’s outstanding debts are the classic last-minute stumbling block.
• Proof of the most recent roadworthiness test passed.
• If a vehicle is included: vehicle registration certificate, technical specifications and a valid MOT certificate.
• If there is a current lease: the lease agreement, to arrange for the buyer to take over the lease.

From the buyer:

• Identification (DNI or NIE) and, where applicable, the articles of association and powers of attorney for the purchasing company.
• Business registration and certificates confirming that all obligations are up to date — these requirements must be met at the time of the transfer, not ‘I’ll sort it out later’.
• Vehicle to be registered that meets the community’s conditions, with passenger insurance.

Regarding the transaction:

• Sale and purchase contract (and the deposit agreement).
• Application for transfer using the form provided by the relevant transport authority and proof of payment of fees.
• Settlement of the applicable tax — VAT or ITP as the case may be; the specific details are set out in your own question.

Each region has its own forms and specific nuances, so the final list depends on the specific authority — this is part of the work carried out at the secure office by a team that submits applications every week: the difference between a 15-day transfer and an 8-day one almost always lies in this paperwork, as we explain in the complete step-by-step guide.