How to Transfer Bike Ownership in Pakistan

If you sell a bike but don’t transfer the ownership, that bike is still registered under your name in the Excise records. This means if the new rider breaks traffic laws, gets into an accident, or even commits a crime using that bike, you could get into legal trouble. On the other hand, if you are a buyer, not transferring the bike to your name can create problems when selling it again or claiming insurance.

In this article, we explore the step-by-step process of transferring bike ownership in Pakistan, explain the required documents, fees, and common mistakes you should avoid.

Why Bike Ownership Transfer is Important?

Many people ignore the ownership transfer process after selling or buying a bike, thinking it’s not necessary. But here’s why it matters:

• Legal Safety → Any challan, accident, or crime involving the bike will go to the name registered in Excise records.
• Peace of Mind → The seller won’t get into trouble for something the new buyer does.
• Easy Resale → Bikes with updated ownership records sell faster.
• Insurance Claims → Insurance companies only honor claims if ownership is in the current rider’s name.

Required Documents for Bike Ownership Transfer

Before you visit the Excise & Taxation Department, make sure you have the following documents ready:

1. Original Registration Book / Smart Card
2. Sale Deed or Transfer Letter (attested by both seller and buyer)
3. Seller’s and Buyer’s CNIC Copies
4. Original CNICs for Verification
5. Passport-size Photographs (usually 2 each)
6. Valid Token Tax Payment Record
7. BIKE File (if old system is used)

Step-by-Step Process of Bike Ownership Transfer

Here’s the simple breakdown of how bike ownership is transferred in Pakistan:

Step 1: Visit Excise & Taxation Department

Both the buyer and seller should visit the nearest Excise office together. Some provinces now also support online appointment booking.

Step 2: Fill Transfer Application Form

Obtain the transfer form from the office or download it online (if available in your province). Both parties need to sign it.

Step 3: Biometric Verification

Excise offices now use biometric verification of both seller and buyer. Without this step, the transfer will not be processed.

Step 4: Pay Transfer Fee

The fee depends on the bike’s engine capacity (cc). On average:

• 70cc – 125cc → Around PKR 1,500 – PKR 2,000
• 150cc and above → PKR 2,500 – PKR 5,000 (may vary by province)

Step 5: Submit Documents

Attach all documents with the transfer form and submit them at the designated counter.

Step 6: Receive Transfer Receipt

The department will give you a receipt as proof of transfer application submission.

Step 7: Collect Updated Registration

Within a few days (varies from 7 to 15 working days), the new owner will receive an updated registration smart card showing their name.

Online Bike Ownership Transfer (In Some Provinces)

Some provinces like Punjab are now shifting towards online services via the Punjab Excise e-Portal and Raast system. This allows:

• Checking pending challans before transfer.
• Paying token tax online.
• Booking appointment slots.

Mistakes to Avoid During Ownership Transfer

• Not completing transfer immediately after sale/purchase
• Skipping biometric verification (transfer won’t be valid).
• Using fake or incomplete documents, which may lead to legal penalties.
• Relying on agents, who may charge extra for work you can do yourself.
• Not verifying challans or token taxes, which can delay the transfer.

Conclusion

Transferring bike ownership in Pakistan is not just a formality—it’s a legal responsibility. Whether you’re a seller or a buyer, completing this process protects both parties from future trouble. With biometric verification and online systems, the process is now faster and more transparent in 2025.

If you’re buying or selling a bike, don’t delay the transfer. It ensures peace of mind, legal safety, and smooth future resale.

FAQs

Can I transfer bike ownership without the seller?
No, both the seller and buyer must be present for biometric verification.

How much does bike ownership transfer cost in Pakistan?
It varies by engine size and province, usually between PKR 1,500 – PKR 5,000

Can I transfer bike ownership online?
Partially. You can pay taxes and book appointments online, but biometric verification still requires visiting the Excise office.