Buying a used car and transferring ownership in Egypt
The key steps for a used-car purchase, based on what traffic authorities publish. This is an overview; the final document list is whatever the traffic unit asks for on the day.
Inspect and verify
- Match the chassis and engine numbers on the licence with the car itself.
- The Ministry of Interior offers an online check that a vehicle licence is genuine. Use it before you buy.
- Ask the seller for a traffic-violations clearance certificate.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the car before you agree.
Transfer steps
- Buyer and seller sign and notarise the sale contract at a Real Estate Publicity and notary office.
- The buyer applies at the traffic unit for their home address with form 251, ID and the notarised contract.
- The car gets a technical inspection that matches chassis and engine numbers, plus the environmental and fire-extinguisher checks.
- Update the compulsory insurance, settle what is due, and collect the licence in the new owner's name.
Deadlines and risks
- Article 19 of the Traffic Law requires the transfer within 30 days of the transfer deed becoming valid. Otherwise the licence is treated as cancelled.
- Do not rely on a power of attorney to drive someone else's car long term. Liability for fines and accidents becomes unclear.
- Foreigners need a valid driving licence in Egypt. See the driving-licence guide on this site.
Related shops and markets
Souq El-Herafiyeen (car parts)
Cairo · Shopping area / market
Car spare-parts and repair cluster on the edge of Cairo (media guide, 2018). Match part numbers and keep the receipt.
Nasr City car market
Cairo · Nasr City · Shopping area / market
Used-car market by the Shinzo Abe axis, Nasr City (OpenStreetMap). Check papers and transfer ownership as described in the vehicles guide.
Hours and what is sold can change, so check before you go. Wang Fu has no business relationship with the places listed and does not vouch for their goods.
Official and public sources
- Ministry of Interior (traffic services)
- Alexandria Governorate: vehicle ownership transfer steps
- Digital Egypt portal
Need an interpreter to come along, or want to post a real sale or rental?