What Documents Do You Need to Buy a Used Car in Thailand? Full Checklist for Cash and Financing to Avoid Scams

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Thinking about buying a used car?

A second-hand car is not only a budget-friendly choice but also a smart long-term investment. However, one of the most crucial steps before finalizing your purchase is preparing the right documents — this ensures a smooth transaction and protects you from potential fraud.

In this article, we’ll walk you through all the essential documents you need for buying a used car in Thailand — whether you're paying in full or via financing — plus tips on how to verify vehicle documents and avoid being tricked into buying a problematic car.

Documents Required for Buying a Used Car with Cash

• Original and copy of your national ID card
• Original and copy of your house registration
• Proof of financial standing (e.g., bank passbook or 6-month bank statements — in some cases)
• Driver’s license (if available)

Documents Required for Buying a Used Car on Finance (Installments)

• Everything required for a cash purchase
• Payslips from the past 3–6 months
• Employment certificate or confirmation letter
• Recent utility bills (e.g., electricity, water) to verify current address
• Other documents as required by the financing institution

Step-by-Step Process for Financing a Used Car in Thailand

1. Choose your car – Inspect its condition and take it for a test drive.
2. Negotiate the price and monthly installment terms.
3. Prepare your documents and submit a loan application to your preferred lender.
4. Wait for loan approval, sign the contract, and pay the down payment.
5. Receive your vehicle, along with all related documents like the registration book and sale contract.

How to Check Used Car Documents and Avoid Scams

• Vehicle Registration Book ("Blue Book")
  • Check the current owner’s name – it should match the seller.
  • Verify chassis number, engine number, model, and color match the actual vehicle.
• Compulsory Insurance (Por Ror Bor) and Voluntary Insurance
  • Check the expiration date and type of coverage.
  • If insurance is close to expiry, ask the seller to renew it before purchase.
• Maintenance Records and Service Book
  • Make sure the car has been regularly serviced (ideally at an authorized center).
  • Be wary of major repairs like engine replacement, which may indicate deeper issues.
• Vehicle Inspection Report
  • Should be no older than 30 days.
  • Review evaluation results, especially engine condition and safety systems.

Documents You Should Receive After Buying a Used Car

• Updated registration book showing your name as the new owner
• Sale contract with full details of the car, seller, buyer, and purchase terms
• Receipt from seller or dealership
• Owner’s manual and spare keys (if available)
• Warranty document (if applicable)
• Loan agreement and payment schedule (if financed)

Additional Costs to Consider When Buying a Used Car

• Ownership transfer fee – approx. 2% of the car’s appraised value
• Annual vehicle tax
• Insurance premium – First-class insurance is recommended for used cars
• Inspection or initial maintenance costs (e.g., oil change, tire replacement, filters)

Buying a used car can be simple and safe as long as you're well-prepared. Gather all the necessary documents, double-check every detail, and if you’re financing, take time to compare lenders for the best deal. Don’t rush! the more careful you are, the more confident you'll feel about your purchase.

Want to check a car’s value, explore financing options, or find quality used cars for sale? Start your car-buying journey with Motorist Thailand — your all-in-one platform for smarter, safer, and more convenient car ownership.

Read More:  5 Reasons Why Buying a Used Car in 2025 Is Smarter Than Going Brand-New

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