How to Change Car Ownership in Latvia: Step-by-Step Guide

Just bought or sold a car in Latvia? Great! But now comes the important part — officially changing the ownership. This article explains how to Change Car Ownership in Latvia step by step, so everything stays official, safe, and by the book.

✅ Step 1: Get Your Documents Ready

Before anything else, both the buyer and seller should make sure they’ve got:

  • A valid ID or passport
  • The car’s registration certificate (a.k.a. the “technical passport”)
  • Valid OCTA insurance
  • A technical inspection certificate (if required)
  • A signed purchase agreement or invoice

If you’re buying from a dealership, they’ll often handle most of this for you.


✅ Step 2: Choose How You Want to Transfer Ownership

You’ve got two easy options:

1. Online via e-CSDD (fastest way)

  • The seller logs in to e.csdd.lv and starts the process
  • The buyer logs in and confirms
  • Done! Ownership is officially changed

💡 You’ll need Latvian eID access (Smart-ID, eParaksts, etc.)

2. In-person at a CSDD office

  • Both buyer and seller go together
  • Bring your documents and ID
  • Pay the fee (around €4.27)
  • Walk out with updated ownership!

✅ Step 3: The Buyer Handles the Rest

After the transfer:

  • Make sure OCTA insurance is active
  • Check if a technical inspection is due
  • Pay the vehicle tax (amount depends on your car’s engine and emissions)

Watch Out For These

  • No insurance = no transfer
  • Always sign a contract, even between friends
  • If the car is being exported, more paperwork is needed

Quick Cost Overview

WhatApproximate Cost
Ownership transfer€4.27
Technical inspection (if needed)€30–€50
Annual vehicle taxVaries by car type

Final Thought

To Change Car Ownership in Latvia is actually pretty simple — especially online.
Just make sure everything’s insured, signed, and submitted. Once it’s done, you’re officially the new owner and good to go.

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