Transferring car ownership in Colombia means completing the traspaso through the RUNT, the national vehicle registry, so the car legally changes hands from seller to buyer. Colombian law sets a deadline of a few business days after signing the sale contract to complete this, and until it is done the seller can still be held legally responsible for the vehicle.
This is not an optional formality. If you buy a used car and do not register the transfer on time, you risk fines and complications if the vehicle has outstanding traffic violations under the previous owner's name. If you are selling, skipping the transfer means you remain liable for anything the new owner does with the car until the change is officially recorded.
Documents needed for the transfer
- Original national ID (cédula) of both buyer and seller
- Original vehicle registration card (tarjeta de propiedad)
- Signed sale contract, notarized with both parties' signatures
- Valid SOAT insurance
- Valid technical and emissions inspection certificate, when required by the vehicle's age
- Proof that vehicle taxes are paid up to date in the department where it is registered
- Proof that there are no outstanding traffic fines linked to the vehicle
Steps to complete the transfer
Before signing anything, it is worth checking the vehicle's history in the RUNT to confirm there are no liens, embargoes, or theft reports. Then the sale contract is signed, the documents above are gathered, and the transfer is filed with an authorized traffic office or through an enabled digital platform. Once approved, the buyer receives an updated registration card in their name.
Why this matters when buying a used car
Skipping a RUNT check is one of the most common mistakes when buying a used vehicle in Colombia. A car with unresolved liens, embargoes, or fines can turn an attractive price into a costly problem after the purchase. Verifying this information is just as important as checking the vehicle's mechanical condition.
At LatiAutos we always recommend confirming a vehicle's legal status before moving forward with a purchase, no matter which country in the region you are buying in, because transfer rules and liability differ by place but the risk of skipping verification does not.
Frequently asked questions
What is the RUNT car transfer in Colombia?
It is the legal process that registers a change of vehicle ownership with Colombia's national traffic registry, moving legal responsibility from the seller to the buyer.
How much time do I have to transfer car ownership in Colombia?
The law requires the transfer within a few business days of signing the sale contract. Until it is registered, the seller can still be held legally responsible for the vehicle.
What documents do I need for a car transfer?
You need both parties' national IDs, the original registration card, a notarized sale contract, valid SOAT insurance, a valid technical inspection certificate if required, and proof taxes and fines are paid.
How much does a car ownership transfer cost in Colombia?
Cost varies by traffic office and city, and includes processing fees plus any outstanding taxes or fines that must be settled before the transfer is approved.
Can I transfer a car online in Colombia?
Some cities offer digital platforms for vehicle transfers, but it is best to confirm with the local traffic office which parts of the process they accept online.