Lost Your Car Registration? Your Guide to Getting a Replacement

Losing important documents can be stressful, especially when it comes to your car registration. Don’t worry, this guide provides a step-by-step process on how to get a replacement car registration quickly and easily in Vietnam.

Car Registration Replacement: What You Need to Know

When Do You Need a Replacement Car Registration?

Several situations may require you to apply for a replacement car registration:

• Lost Registration: This is the most common reason, often due to misplacement or theft.
• Damaged Registration: Water damage, fire, or tearing can render your registration illegible.

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth process, gather the following documents:

• Application for Replacement: This form is available at vehicle registration offices or on the Vietnam Register website.
• National ID Card/Citizen Identity Card: A photocopy and the original for verification.
• Household Registration Book: Required for individual car owners. Businesses need to provide a Business Registration Certificate.
• Lost Registration Report: Obtain this from the nearest police station after reporting the loss.
• Damaged Registration (if applicable): Provide the damaged document if it’s still partially intact.

Application Process

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Submit your complete application to the Traffic Police Department (PC08) in the province/city where your car is registered.

Step 2: Pay the Fee

You’ll be directed to pay the replacement fee, which varies depending on the vehicle type and is publicly listed.

Step 3: Receive a Receipt

After completing the procedures, you’ll receive a receipt with a pick-up date. The waiting period is typically 3-5 business days.

Step 4: Collect Your New Registration

On the specified date, bring your receipt and ID card/Citizen Identity Card to the submission location to collect your new car registration.

People submitting car registration replacement applications

Important Reminders

• Double-check your application before submitting to avoid multiple trips.
• Visit the relevant authorities in person for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
• Avoid using unofficial intermediaries (“cò mồi”) to prevent scams.
• Many truck owners in Hanoi believe in choosing auspicious dates and license plates for good luck and prosperity. Mr. Tuan, a transport business owner on Nguyen Trai Street, shared, “Since I changed my license plate based on feng shui, my business has been much smoother.”