Thinking of buying used cars in Qatar? Before you close the deal, it’s important to check the vehicle’s ownership history to avoid hidden fines, unknown loans, or any registration issues. Here’s how to check them and transfer the vehicle successfully.

To transfer the car ownership in Qatar, you need to collect the following documents:

• Vehicle registration card (Istimara) — ensure it is up to date
• Copies of the buyer’s and seller’s QID
• Valid car insurance under the new owner’s name
• Ownership transfer authorization from the mortgagee — for mortgaged vehicles only

The vehicle shouldn’t have outstanding traffic violations or unpaid fines. The system blocks the transfer until they are all cleared. If you are an expat, you no longer need to provide a no-objection certificate for car ownership transfer. 

Transferring a car that’s registered under a company’s name to an individual requires some additional documents. You’ll need to provide a copy of the company registration card and a signed transportation approval letter from the company.

If you buy a vehicle through a car agency, you’ll need an authorization card or invoice stamped and signed by the dealership confirming the sale. 

When buying cars sold through court auctions, ownership can be changed without returning the car to their previous owners, provided there is a letter from the competent authority or a court order.

Another convenient way to complete this procedure is through the Metrash app. If you don’t have it on your smartphone, download it from the MOI website, Google Play, or App Store. Please note that only smart QID holders can complete the procedure by following these steps:

1. Sign in to your Metrash account using your QID

2. From the home page, tap the "Traffic" icon

3. Select "Vehicles" and "Vehicle Ownership Transfer." Your vehicles under your ownership will be displayed on the screen

4. Select the vehicle plate number of the car you want to transfer

5. Enter the buyer's QID, their mobile phone number, and your car's license plate number

6. The buyer will receive a notification in their Metrash app and must approve the transfer

7. Pay for the service using your credit or debit card (QAR 200)

8. Choose how the documents will be delivered through QPOST or by personal visit to the headquarters in Madinat Khalifa

Upon completion, the buyer will receive an in-app message indicating their new Istimara is ready. You can have it delivered, or you can pick it up yourself at the traffic office.

If the vehicle is under a comprehensive insurance policy, the insurance must first be transferred to your name before the ownership can be transferred via Metrash. Once that’s done, you can go ahead with renewing or updating the insurance. You may choose to keep the existing policy or purchase a new one. For newer or high-value vehicles, comprehensive insurance is generally recommended. Insurance can be arranged through local providers — either online or in person. 

If the vehicle is insured through QIC, the policy can be transferred to the new owner directly in the QIC App via mobile phone. The previous owner must initiate the transfer through their account. Once the new owner logs in, their active QIC policy will be added to their account in QIC App, where they can view and manage key coverage details.