Re-registering a car (change of owner)
When buying or selling a used car, the change of owner must be registered with CSDD. You can do it remotely via e-CSDD (easier and usually cheaper) or in person at any CSDD customer centre — the registration fee plus certificate issue in person costs 13.42 EUR in total.
Who this applies to
Step by step
The buyer makes a note in e-CSDD
In their e-CSDD account the buyer files an application note about acquiring the vehicle. Both parties see the notes in their e-CSDD accounts and get e-mail notifications.
The seller confirms the deal
The seller must confirm the note within 5 days — otherwise it is deleted automatically. Upon confirmation the vehicle is deregistered for alienation in Latvia.
Arrange OCTA for the new owner
Immediately after the change of owner the previous OCTA policy becomes invalid — the new owner must arrange insurance at once. If OCTA is concluded before registration, the number of the electronic ownership-change confirmation is used instead of the registration document number.
Register the change and receive the certificate
If the car will be used in traffic, the buyer must register the change within 5 days after confirmation. The new registration certificate can be received at a CSDD centre or by post (postal delivery is a paid service). In person, submit the registration certificate and show a passport or eID.
Common mistakes
Frequently asked questions
How much does re-registering a car cost?
In person at CSDD the registration fee and certificate issue cost 13.42 EUR incl. VAT in total. Via e-CSDD it is usually slightly cheaper; postal delivery of the certificate costs extra.
What if the seller doesn't confirm the deal?
If the seller does not confirm the buyer's note within 5 days, it is deleted. The buyer can delete their own note until the seller confirms it.
Can a car be re-registered fully remotely?
Yes, if the registration certificate contains the VIN and the data matches. Without a VIN an in-person unit-number comparison is required.
Is the procedure the same for inheritance or auctions?
Not quite — ownership change based on a document (inheritance, court ruling, auction deed) has its own procedure, and in some cases must be registered in person at a CSDD centre.