Vehicle Ownership

Before managing the deceased's vehicle, you must first obtain the legal right to do so.

Overview

CPF Nomination

If the deceased has left behind vehicle(s), the beneficiaries may choose to (i) take over and continue to drive or keep the vehicle, (ii) sell the vehicle, or (iii) deregister and dispose of the vehicle.

First Steps

Was there a Will?

Before managing the deceased vehicle ownership, ensure that:

You have applied for a Grant of Probate and are the executor in accordance with the will. (See: Grant of Probate); or
If the deceased has passed on intestate (without a will), ensure that you have applied for Letters of Administration and are the administrator. (See: Letter of Administration)

As the executor or administrator, you may apply for transfer of vehicle ownership with the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

Transfer of Ownership

As abovementioned, only the administrator or executor of the estate of the deceased may transfer the ownership of a vehicle belonging to a deceased vehicle owner.

The administrator or executor of the estate may apply to transfer the vehicle ownership online using their Singpass. The following information is required to perform the transaction:

The next owner name, identification number and mobile number in which the vehicle ownership will be transferred to ("Next Owner"); and
Certified True Copy of Grant of Letters of Administration, or Grant of Probate, or a copy that is included in the Authentic Court Order (ACO) system, or Letter from the Public Trustee on the administration of the estate of the deceased owner as the case maybe.
Original motor insurance certificate in the new owner's name, covering the full period of the vehicle's road tax.

Important Notes:

1. Grant of Letters of Administration or Grant of Probate that were obtained overseas must be resealed by the Singapore Courts

2. If the vehicle is a light goods vehicle, the vehicle has to be transferred to a business, company or an individual with a valid hawker or farm licence.

Vehicle with Hire Purchase/Loan

If the vehicle is under hire-purchase, you must settle all outstanding financial matters with the hire-purchase company before submitting a transfer application.

Final Notes:

If a loved one has just passed on, it can be an overwhelming and emotionally difficult task for the family members to deal with the deceased’s estate. If you require assistance in selling or deregistering the vehicle, you may enquire our service to get in touch with a car dealer. The car dealer will strive to provides a professional and compassionate service to clients who have lost loved ones, and require assistance with selling or deregistering the vehicle.