Learn the legal steps of transferring car ownership in Malawi, including required documents, fees, and procedures for both buyer and seller. Stay compliant and avoid legal trouble.

Why Car Ownership Transfer Matters in Malawi

Whether you're buying or selling a used car in Malawi, properly transferring ownership is not just a formality — it’s a legal obligation. Without a formal transfer, the registered owner remains liable for any road offenses, taxes, or accidents involving the vehicle.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand how to legally transfer car ownership in Malawi, ensuring that both the buyer and seller stay protected.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before initiating the transfer, both parties must have the necessary documents ready.

Documents Required from the Seller:

  • Original Vehicle Registration Certificate

  • Proof of Identity (National ID or Passport)

  • Proof of Sale (a signed sale agreement)

  • Roadworthy Certificate (valid within the past 30 days)

Documents Required from the Buyer:

  • National ID or Passport

  • Proof of Payment (receipt or bank slip)

  • Completed Application for Transfer of Ownership (available from Road Traffic Directorate - RTD)

🔗 Helpful tip: Platforms like Caryanga.com often offer downloadable templates for car sale agreements.

Step 2: Draft a Sale Agreement

A written agreement protects both buyer and seller.

Essential Elements:

  • Full names and ID numbers of buyer and seller

  • Vehicle details (Make, Model, Year, VIN, Engine Number)

  • Agreed sale price

  • Date of sale

  • Signatures of both parties

Pro Tip: Include a clause confirming that the car is being sold “as is,” and both parties have agreed to the condition.

 Step 3: Visit the Road Traffic Directorate (RTD)

The buyer and seller must visit the RTD office together to initiate the ownership transfer.

What happens at RTD:

  • Buyer submits application for ownership transfer

  • RTD verifies all documents

  • Inspection may be conducted (in some cases)

  • Buyer pays the transfer fee

Estimated Fees (as of 2025):

  • Ownership Transfer Fee: MWK 25,000–50,000 (depending on vehicle class)

  • Admin/Service Fee: MWK 5,000–10,000

📍 Where to Go: Main RTD offices are located in Lilongwe, Blantyre, Mzuzu, and selected district centers.

Step 4: Vehicle Verification and Clearance

In some cases, especially for imported or older vehicles, the RTD may require:

  • Police clearance (to confirm the car is not stolen)

  • MRA (Malawi Revenue Authority) clearance for customs verification

This process may take 1–3 days. Always ensure the engine and chassis numbers match the documents.

 Step 5: Issuance of New Registration Certificate

Once all documents are approved:

  • A new Vehicle Registration Certificate (Blue Book) is issued in the buyer’s name.

  • The number plate remains the same, unless the buyer requests a change.

🔁 The car is now legally under the buyer's ownership. The seller is no longer liable for traffic or legal issues associated with the vehicle.

 Step 6: Update Insurance and Road Tax

After ownership transfer:

  • The new owner must register insurance under their name.

  • Update the road tax records to avoid penalties.

It’s recommended to visit your insurance provider the same day as the RTD transfer to avoid any gaps in coverage.

 Important Legal Notes

  • Do not delay the transfer. Malawian law requires that vehicle ownership be transferred within 14 days of the sale.

  • Selling a vehicle without disclosing issues (e.g., mechanical faults, loan liens) can lead to legal disputes.

  • Always deal in writing and avoid verbal-only agreements.

 Buyer and Seller Checklist

Task Seller Buyer Provide original registration ✅   Sign sale agreement ✅ ✅ Bring ID to RTD ✅ ✅ Complete transfer application   ✅ Pay transfer fees   ✅ Update insurance   ✅

 Where to Get Help

  • Road Traffic Directorate Website: www.rtda.gov.mw

  • MRA Customs Help Desk: For import verification

  • Caryanga.com: For used car listings, seller guides, and vehicle verification tips

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I transfer car ownership without the seller?

No. Both buyer and seller must be present at the RTD for verification.

2. How long does the transfer process take?

Usually 1–3 working days, depending on inspection or clearance requirements.

3. Can I do the transfer online?

Currently, in-person visits to RTD are required in Malawi. However, RTD is working on digital services.

4. What happens if I delay ownership transfer?

You may face fines, and the car may still be legally tied to the seller in the system.

5. Who pays the ownership transfer fee?

By default, the buyer pays, but it can be negotiated in the sale agreement.

6. What if the seller has lost the registration certificate?

They must request a duplicate from the RTD before the transfer can be processed.

Conclusion

Transferring car ownership in Malawi doesn’t have to be complicated — but it must be done legally and properly. By following the steps above, both buyers and sellers can protect themselves, avoid fines, and stay compliant with national laws.

If you’re currently in the market to buy or sell a vehicle, visit Caryanga.com — Malawi’s trusted platform for used car listings, buyer guides, and automotive resources.