Publication date: 30.01.2026
The change the owner of the car in Poland is a mandatory administrative procedure after every sale, donation, inheritance, or any other form of vehicle transfer. Failure to complete this process properly may result in financial penalties, insurance problems, and legal responsibility. Transferring a car to another person without updating official records exposes both the buyer and seller to unnecessary risks.
The procedure includes not only registration updates but also the change of car owner and insurance, proper notification of authorities, and correct handling of vehicle documentation.
When is a re-registering the car required?
A change of car owner is required in the following situations:
- purchase or sale of a vehicle,
- donation or inheritance,
- transfer of a car to another person,
- division of property,
- corporate ownership restructuring.
Special cases require additional attention and documentation: The change of ownership of a classic car involves additional formalities, including confirmation of historic vehicle status and registration updates. This process requires precise documentation and compliance with heritage vehicle regulations. The change of car co-ownership to sole ownership occurs when one co-owner acquires full rights to the vehicle. This often applies to divorce settlements, inheritance cases, or ownership buyouts.
Change of car ownership and insurance obligations
After purchasing a vehicle, the change of car owner and insurance must be addressed immediately. The new owner must decide whether to: keep the existing insurance policy, sign a new insurance contract.
Transfer of Third-Party Insurance After Purchase
The transfer of OC insurance is legally allowed. However, insurers may recalculate premiums or adjust policy conditions depending on the new owner’s profile. The transfer of car insurance and insurance transfer after purchase do not automatically guarantee the same coverage terms. Reviewing policy details is essential to avoid coverage gaps.
Car transfer – formal obligations
After the car transfer, the new owner must:
- report the ownership change to the registration authority,
- update vehicle registration data,
- finalize insurance documentation.
- Failure to meet these obligations may result in administrative fines and legal complications.
Most common mistakes
During the Process During the change of car owner, the most frequent issues include:
- incorrect purchase agreements,
- missing transfer of third-party insurance after purchase,
- outdated owner records,
- incomplete documentation during change of classic car owner procedures.
Proper preparation significantly reduces administrative risks.
Who we are?
We are a professional team supporting clients with administrative vehicle procedures in Poland. We assist with processes such as car transfer, ownership changes, registration formalities, and insurance coordination.
Our goal is to ensure legal security, efficiency, and compliance with regulations throughout every stage of the process.
A properly completed change of car owner and insurance, timely transfer of a car to another person, and correct insurance transfer after purchase are essential for lawful vehicle use in Poland. Following formal procedures protects vehicle owners from penalties, insurance disputes, and registration problems. If you are planning a change of car owner, car transfer, or car insurance transfer, contact us to complete the process safely and efficiently without unnecessary risks.
FAQ — frequently asked questions
Question
Is changing the car owner mandatory?
Answer
Yes. The change of car owner is legally required and must be reported within statutory deadlines.
Question
Can car insurance be transferred?
Answer
Yes. Transfer of car insurance is allowed, but insurers may modify policy terms.
Question
Does the procedure differ for classic vehicles?
Answer
Yes. The change of classic car owner requires additional documentation.
Question
How does co-ownership conversion work?
Answer
The change of car co-ownership to sole ownership requires legal agreements or court decisions.
