To legally own a car in Zambia, your name must appear on the registration certificate (the white book). Simply buying a car is not enough; you must complete a formal transfer at the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA). The process is governed by the [Road Traffic Act No. 11 of 2002].
What you need to do:
Both buyer and seller must work together on steps 1 to 6. First, complete a signed Letter of Sale (or a donation letter if the car is a gift). Then take the car for inspection at any RTSA office and collect your inspection report. The seller must obtain a tax clearance certificate for change of ownership from ZRA (you will need a TPIN). The buyer must get a Police anti-theft clearance report and swear a General Affidavit before a Commissioner for Oaths. Fill in Form MVR 1, signed by both parties. Finally, both of you go to RTSA with the original white book, both NRCs, and all documents listed above, pay the fee, and receive a new white book in the buyer's name. The seller must then file a separate online "Notification of Change of Ownership" at rtsa.org.zm to remove their liability.
Important notes:
Confirm the current transfer fee with RTSA before you pay (fees are set under SI No. 25 of 2024 and change regularly). The car must have valid road tax and a fitness certificate before transfer. Your insurance automatically ends when ownership changes, so you must arrange new cover immediately.