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Selling a used car in Algeria: New registration system and penalty rules

As of April 2026, Algeria has implemented a nationwide digital system for vehicle registration and ownership transfer. Sellers holding older vehicle registration documents are required to update them to the new digital format, which includes a QR code, prior to initiating a sale. Current traffic laws mandate a valid technical inspection certificate at the time of any ownership change. The application for a new registration must be submitted to the local municipality, requiring the biometric ID cards of both the buyer and the seller. The system now automatically generates the sale declaration, streamlining the process. Buyers have a one-month window to finalize the ownership transfer; failing to meet this deadline results in a 4,000 DA fine, which doubles if not paid within 45 days. Potential buyers are advised to verify that the vehicle's chassis number matches the documentation and that the vehicle is free of any legal liens or encumbrances before proceeding.