Improving Motor Vehicle Ownership Transfer Process

Written Reply to Parliamentary Question

Ms Denise Phua Lay Peng asked the Acting Minister for Transport whether LTA can consider improving the motor vehicle ownership transfer process including by (i) adding more safeguards in addition to SingPass authentication, to avoid giving sellers a false sense of security (ii) having stronger advisories to warn against transferring ownership before payment and (iii) requiring motor dealers conducting such transactions to be licensed, registered, or accredited to enhance consumer protection.

Reply by Acting Minister for Transport Jeffrey Siow:

1.      Besides the mandatory SingPass authentication for the seller and buyer, there is a two-step confirmation by both parties before the motor vehicle ownership transfer process is completed. Advisories can be found on the Land Transport Authority's (LTA's) OneMotoring website, urging sellers to transfer motor vehicle ownership only after receiving payment and to exercise caution before making any transaction.

2.      There is a CaseTrust-Singapore Vehicle Traders Association accreditation for second-hand motor dealers, who are assessed for fair business practices, transparency, and dispute resolution. Members of the public are encouraged to engage with these dealers for greater assurance.