Most people focus all their energy on the deal itself — the price, the test drive, maybe a DMR report to check the history — and forget that the ownership transfer afterwards has its own deadline and its own rules. Here's what actually needs to happen, and the two ways to do it.

How long do you have to transfer ownership?

The new owner must re-register or deregister the vehicle within 4 business days of the purchase date. The deadline is short, so it's a good idea to agree with the seller who's handling the transfer as soon as you sign the deal.

Can you do it yourselves?

Yes. If both parties have Danish MitID, the transfer can be completed entirely online via the Motor Register or the Ejerskifte app — both parties confirm the deal, and it typically takes 10-15 minutes. If the car keeps its existing number plates, the state fee is 340 kr.

When does it make sense to use a registration office instead?

If you use a plate registration operator instead — like Aktiv Bilsyn's registration office — the state fee is slightly higher, and the operator adds its own price on top. At Aktiv Bilsyn, the total price is 550 kr., and it's typically relevant if:

  • One party doesn't have Danish MitID or a CPR number
  • The car also needs an inspection the same day — so you get both errands done in one visit
  • You'd simply rather have the paperwork handled by someone who does it every day

What do you need to bring?

Valid ID for both buyer and seller, plus details of the purchase price for the registration. If one party can't be there in person, the other needs to bring a power of attorney.

Do we keep the old number plates?

Yes, by default the existing plates stay with the car for the new owner. If the car needs completely new plates, that's a separate service — see the prices for number plates at the registration office.

Good idea: combine it with a DMR report and inspection

If you're in the process of buying a used car, it's worth ordering a DMR report before you sign — it shows inspection history and mileage development, so you avoid unpleasant surprises. If the car also needs an inspection, you can get the DMR report, inspection and ownership transfer done in the same visit at Aktiv Bilsyn in Rødovre.