To transfer car ownership in Peru you need the valid national ID of both buyer and seller, the original vehicle identification card, a signed sale contract, and registration of the transfer with SUNARP, either through a notary or by filing the Vehicle Transfer Form directly with the registry. The process can be completed in a few days if done through a notary, or take longer if filed directly with SUNARP.
Before signing any contract it is worth checking the vehicle history. A car can have liens, unpaid traffic fines, or a theft report, and all of this can be checked through SUNARP and National Police records. This check protects both buyer and seller and avoids surprises after the deal closes.
Documents needed for the transfer
- Valid national ID of both parties
- Vehicle identification card (formerly called the property card)
- Sale contract or transfer agreement
- Vehicle Transfer Form if the process is done directly with SUNARP
- Confirmation that the vehicle has no liens or pending traffic fines
- Vehicle property tax up to date, which is not always required to register the transfer but is recommended to have in order
Steps in the process
First the vehicle history is checked with SUNARP. Then the sale contract is signed by both parties. Next, either a notary is used to legalize the signatures and process the transfer, or the Registry Form is submitted directly to SUNARP. Registration fees are paid, and finally the transfer is registered in the Vehicle Property Registry, after which the buyer receives a new vehicle identification card in their name.
Going through a notary tends to be faster and more practical for most buyers, while filing directly with SUNARP can be cheaper but requires more time and familiarity with the registry process.
If you are shopping for a vehicle in Peru before starting this process, checking the legal status and history of the car matters as much as comparing prices across sellers. LatiAutos aggregates dealer inventory across several Latin American countries so you can compare options before buying.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a car transfer cost in Peru?
Cost depends on whether you use a notary or file directly with SUNARP, and includes registration fees plus notary charges if that route is used. There is no single fixed fee that applies to every case.
How long does the vehicle transfer take?
Through a notary the process is usually resolved within a few business days. Filing directly with SUNARP can take longer depending on the registry workload.
Do I have to use a notary to transfer a car?
No. You can also process the transfer directly with SUNARP using the Vehicle Transfer Form without going through a notary.
What happens if I do not transfer my car?
The vehicle remains registered under the previous seller's name with SUNARP, meaning that person stays legally responsible for fines, traffic tickets and taxes until the transfer is completed.
Do I need the technical inspection for the transfer?
It is not a mandatory requirement to register the transfer with SUNARP, but it is required to drive the car legally and it is worth checking before buying.