Buying a used car in Cyprus is straightforward when you know the process. But if you’re new to the island, or buying a higher-value vehicle for the first time, it’s worth understanding a few specifics before you hand over a deposit. The paperwork requirements have also changed in recent years — most recently with a mandatory recall clearance certificate introduced in February 2025 — so even experienced buyers may find some of this useful.

This guide covers what to check before buying, how the ownership transfer works, and what costs to expect beyond the purchase price.

Check the basics before you commit

Whether you’re buying from a dealer or a private seller, these are the non-negotiables to verify before agreeing to any price:

The logbook (Registration Certificate / Άδεια Κυκλοφορίας). This is the official document proving the vehicle’s registration details and ownership history. Ask to see it early and check that the seller’s name matches. If it doesn’t, walk away until it can be explained.

MOT status. Vehicles over a certain age require a valid roadworthiness test (MOT). You cannot complete a registration transfer if the MOT has expired — the test would need to be arranged first. Check the expiry date on the logbook or ask the seller directly.

Road tax. Road tax arrears must be cleared before or during the ownership transfer. Ask whether road tax is paid up to date. If it isn’t, this should be settled — typically by the seller — before the transfer can proceed.

Service history. A documented service history confirms the stated mileage and gives you insight into how the car has been maintained. For high-value vehicles, a full service record is worth insisting on.

Outstanding finance or encumbrances. A vehicle with outstanding finance can technically be sold without the buyer’s knowledge. If you’re buying privately rather than from a dealer, ask for written confirmation that the vehicle is unencumbered.

The ownership transfer process

In Cyprus, you cannot simply hand over cash and drive away. The transfer of ownership must be completed officially, and both buyer and seller — or their authorised representatives with Power of Attorney — need to attend a Road Transport Department (RTD) office or a Citizen Service Centre together.

Documents required for the transfer:

• Form TOM 9B — signed by both buyer and seller
• The original Vehicle Registration Certificate (logbook)
• Valid insurance certificate in the buyer’s name — this must be arranged before attending the RTD, not after
• Identification for both parties (passport or Cyprus ID card)
• Proof of address for the buyer
• A sales contract certified by a Mukhtar (local community official)
• Recall Clearance Certificate (TOM 369 / TOM 370) — mandatory from February 2025. This confirms the vehicle has no outstanding manufacturer recalls and is obtained from the official dealership of the car’s make in Cyprus.

The recall clearance certificate is the newest requirement and one that catches buyers off-guard. If you’re buying a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, or any other brand, contact the official Cyprus importer for that brand in advance to obtain the certificate. The process is usually straightforward but may take a few days to arrange.

When buying from a reputable dealer, much of this paperwork is typically handled for you. The dealer will have the recall certificate, will prepare the TOM 9B, and in many cases can guide you through the registration process or manage it on your behalf.

Costs beyond the purchase price

Budget for these in addition to what you pay for the car:

Road tax. Annual road tax in Cyprus is based on CO₂ emissions. Rates range from under €100 for low-emission vehicles to significantly more for larger engines. The renewal window runs from January to 11 March each year — after that date, a late penalty applies.

Insurance. Comprehensive insurance is strongly recommended for any vehicle of significant value. Get quotes before you agree on a car, as premiums vary based on the vehicle, your driving history, and the insurer. Third-party liability is the legal minimum.

Transfer fee. There is an administrative fee for the ownership transfer at the RTD, calculated on the vehicle’s declared value. It is relatively modest but worth factoring into your budget.

VAT. Used cars purchased from a licensed dealer may be subject to VAT. Private sales between individuals are generally not. If you’re buying from a dealer, clarify whether the listed price includes VAT before negotiating.

Why buying from a licensed dealer makes a difference

Private sales can offer lower prices, but they also put all the due-diligence responsibility on you. You need to verify the vehicle’s history yourself, arrange the recall certificate, ensure road tax and MOT are in order, and trust that the seller has disclosed everything relevant.

A licensed dealer handles most of this before the car goes on sale. For higher-value vehicles in particular — where a hidden mechanical issue or outstanding finance could mean a significant financial loss — the added confidence of a dealer purchase is usually worth any modest price premium.

Dealer-approved vehicles from manufacturer networks go a step further, carrying the official importer’s guarantee of condition and often retaining some or all of the remaining manufacturer warranty. For near-new cars in this category, you’re effectively buying peace of mind alongside the vehicle.

Questions worth asking any seller before you buy

• Is the MOT valid, and when does it expire?
• Is road tax paid up to date?
• Has the recall clearance certificate (TOM 369) been obtained?
• Is there a full service history with the car?
• Is the vehicle owned outright, or is there outstanding finance?
• Has the car been in any accidents? If so, what repairs were carried out?
• For dealer purchases: is VAT included in the listed price?

NXM Empire sells quality used and near-new vehicles from our Limassol showroom. Our current stock includes dealer-approved models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Toyota, and Jeep — most with full service history, low mileage, and remaining manufacturer warranty. To arrange a viewing or ask about a specific vehicle, call or WhatsApp us on 99 13 13 20, or browse the full inventory here.