Vehicle Registration Tax

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 31 March 2022

Thursday, 31 March 2022

Questions (210)

Niall Collins

Question:

210. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport if he will advise on correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17249/22]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Transport

The Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC) issued by my Department, otherwise known as a log book, is the official ownership document of a vehicle in Ireland. It is issued when a vehicle is registered in Ireland and when payment of the initial motor tax has been completed (for both new and imported vehicles) and upon each change of ownership (other than to a motor dealer) thereafter.

The VRC document is not proof that a vehicle ownership transaction has taken place between parties or the correct vehicle registration tax has been paid on the vehicle. The addition of a tearaway piece from the VRC to be transferred to the new owner as proof of purchase would have no legal basis as proof of transfer of ownership of a vehicle as it would not include cost paid or date of transaction details.

The proper procedure for proof of ownership of a vehicle requires a receipt or invoice from whom and when you bought the vehicle. Where a private purchase is completed the buyer should request some sort of written agreement detailing the date of sale, the amount you paid and the method of payment to the seller.