Last updated: October 2026
Quick answer: After buying a used car in Nigeria, you transfer it into your name by: (1) collecting the original vehicle documents and a signed sale agreement from the seller, (2) completing police checks through the e-CMR (cmris.npf.gov.ng), (3) applying for change of ownership at your state licensing office (in Lagos, the MVAA), (4) getting a new Proof of Ownership Certificate in your name, and (5) buying insurance in your own name before you drive.
| Document | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Signed sale agreement / bill of sale | Shows the seller sold the car to you; include both parties’ names, IDs, addresses, price, date, chassis (VIN) and engine numbers |
| Original Proof of Ownership Certificate (POC) | Shows the seller was the registered owner |
| Original vehicle licence and registration papers | Confirms the plate, chassis and engine numbers match the car |
| Customs papers (for imported/Tokunbo cars) | Proves duty was paid; essential for a car first registered after import |
| Seller’s valid ID (copy) | Links the seller to the documents |
| Spare keys and service history | Useful for insurance and resale |
The Nigeria Police Force replaced manual CMR certificates with the digital e-CMR (Central Motor Registry Information System). Police say it validates a vehicle’s genuineness and ownership, helps track stolen vehicles and protects innocent buyers. Services include change of ownership, change of engine and change of chassis/body.
Police said they began enforcing the e-CMR on 29 July 2024, and manual CMR certificates issued earlier are no longer recognised. For support, the police published CMR Command Centre lines for Abuja (08117777666, 09169892000) and Lagos (08117777555, 09169891000).
In Lagos, the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency’s published process for change of ownership includes document checks, a proof of ownership stamp and police inspection. Expect to:
Incomplete documents end the process, so bring originals and copies. Other states follow a similar path through their Board of Internal Revenue or Motor Licensing Office.
Insurance doesn’t transfer automatically. Buy at least third-party cover (₦15,000) in your own name before driving the car away. Under the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025, anyone in control of a vehicle must insure it, and driving uninsured can attract a fine of up to ₦250,000. Compare options in our car insurance in Nigeria guide.
From now on, renew the vehicle licence, roadworthiness, POC and insurance every year in your name. Our vehicle papers renewal guide explains costs and the online portals.
If a bank financed the car, the lender usually keeps an interest in the vehicle until the loan is repaid, and comprehensive insurance is mandatory. See our best car loans in Nigeria guide.
With complete documents, the online e-CMR and licensing steps can be done within days, but document collection and inspections can stretch it to a couple of weeks.
A signed sale agreement, the seller’s original Proof of Ownership Certificate and vehicle papers, your NIN and valid ID, customs papers for imported cars, and your Police e-CMR evidence.
Only with valid insurance in your name and current papers. Complete the transfer as soon as possible to avoid problems at checkpoints and with claims.
The digital Central Motor Registry run by the Nigeria Police Force at cmris.npf.gov.ng. It records vehicle ownership and is used for change of ownership and to check whether a vehicle is stolen.
Usually not. The plate stays with the vehicle; only the ownership records change. A Tokunbo car being registered for the first time gets a new plate as part of registration.
Sources: Nigeria Police Force statements on e-CMR (via ICIR, Vanguard, 21st Century Chronicle); Lagos MVAA Products, Process and Prices (June 2025); Awajis vehicle registration guide (May 2026); BusinessDay on Lagos motorists’ documents; Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025. Processes and fees change; confirm with your licensing office.
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