The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has announced that strict enforcement of vehicle transfer regulations will begin on December 1.
Clarifying whether the laws governing vehicle transfers using open papers were being changed, DMT Commissioner General Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Thushara Indunil Fernando said the law remains unchanged and that the requirement is already in place.
He explained that, under the existing provisions, anyone transferring a vehicle registered in their name to another person must submit copies of the MT6 form, the revenue licence and the vehicle’s Certificate of Registration (CR) to the department within 14 days.
He said the requirement is intended to protect the person selling the vehicle.
“That is why we are repeatedly raising awareness. Never hand over open papers when selling a vehicle. Obtain the buyer’s signature and ensure that the fully completed MT6 form is sent to us within 14 days,” he said.
The Commissioner General questioned the practice of handing over open papers, warning that it could leave the original owner exposed to legal complications if the vehicle is subsequently used for unlawful activities.
“Why would people sell vehicles by handing over open papers? That gives someone else the opportunity to misuse the vehicle or carry out transactions involving it. Once you sell your vehicle, the purpose of this requirement is to protect you. If a vehicle is used for any unlawful activity while still under open papers, the person who sold it could face trouble because the legal liability rests with them. That is why we are making this announcement,” he said.
He further stressed that the completed MT6 form must be sent to the department by registered post within 14 days so that its records can be updated to reflect the sale.
“Sometimes, the buyer may come and register the vehicle after the 14-day period. However, we are enforcing this requirement to protect the original owner from potential legal liability. This is expected to be strictly implemented from December 1,” he added. ( Newswire)