No motorcyclist wants to consider selling their beloved bike, but if you ever find yourself in that position, you will need specific documentation to facilitate the sale. These documents go much further than just the ownership papers.
Related: What documents do I need to provide to the buyer of my bike?
It doesn't matter if you are selling to a dealership or selling privately; you should have all these documents on hand to speed up the sale. Not only are many of these documents legally required, but they can also create a sense of confidence in a buyer by proving you are a good owner on top of your bike ownership.
Should I sell my motorbike privately or trade it in at a dealership?
Identification
Have a copy of your ID or licence ready to give to the buyer, and make sure to ask for the buyer’s ID as well if it's a private sale. If they have a copy, that is even better. If not, take a clear picture of their ID, licence, or passport with your smartphone.
A settlement letter
This is only needed if you still owe money on the bike. The settlement letter will state the outstanding amount so the buyer can see for himself.
RWC (Roadworthy Certificate)
For registration purposes, the buyer will need a current RWC within 21 days of the sale. This is mainly for private sales; for sales to a dealer, the business may take on the RWC themselves when they sell the bike later. If your RWC has expired, you can obtain an updated one for the buyer. Take the bike to the testing station with your ID, vehicle registration, and completed Application for Roadworthiness Certification.
Proof of ownership certificate
You will only have this if the document is for the bike if it is fully paid up. Typically, a letter from the bank certifying that the motorcycle is truly yours goes along with this. If you are without these documents, contact the relevant financial institution to obtain them. To learn more about the ownership certificate, click here.
Notification of Change of Ownership
Unless you want to be held responsible for the new bike owner's traffic fines, you must fill out a Notification of Change of Ownership (NCO) form (see above), available to download online or pick up at any traffic department. The seller and the buyer need their signatures on this form, and the buyer will need his copy. The Department of Transport will receive a copy of the NCO form for the transfer to the buyer’s name.
Vehicle Registration Certificate
The new owner will need your original Vehicle Registration Certificate to register the bike. You should also keep a copy for the de-registration of the bike you are selling, and one more to keep on file, just in case.
Service history and receipts
This is extremely valuable. Some people won’t buy a used bike without a full-service history. If the motorcycle still has a warranty, hand over all receipts and any documentation.
Proof of sale
Once the deal is sealed, get a receipt acknowledging the date, the amount paid, the make and model of the bike, the motorcycle's registration, VIN, and the buyer's and seller's names and contact details/addresses. Make two copies so you and the buyer both have one. This serves as proof of sale for your own and the buyer’s protection. It is not a legal requirement, but it’s important in case something fishy arises.
