BRTA issues fresh alert on vehicle ownership transfers

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has urged vehicle owners to complete ownership transfer procedures immediately after selling a motor vehicle, warning that failure to do so could leave former owners liable for taxes, surcharges and other legal obligations.

In an urgent notice published on its verified Facebook page on Wednesday (June 24), the transport regulator said many vehicle buyers continue using purchased vehicles without formally transferring ownership, resulting in financial and legal liabilities remaining attached to the previous owner's name.

According to BRTA, ownership transfer is mandatory under Section 21 of the Road Transport Act, 2018. However, non-compliance with the provision has led to numerous cases where former owners have been required to pay advance income tax, environmental surcharges and, in some instances, additional tax penalties.

To address the issue, BRTA said it has simplified the ownership transfer process. Sellers are required to submit an online application, after which their identity will be verified through biometric fingerprint authentication using a handheld device. Once verification is completed, the ownership transfer can be finalized on the same day.

The authority also noted that buyers can provide their biometric information on the same day to obtain a digital vehicle registration certificate.

BRTA warned that individuals who fail to complete ownership transfer after a vehicle sale may face legal complications in the future. The regulator said necessary legal action could be taken against those found violating the law.

The agency urged both buyers and sellers to ensure ownership transfer formalities are completed within the prescribed timeframe to avoid financial liabilities and potential legal disputes.