Buying a Vehicle , Passing it into your name & "Registering" it.

You are probably wondering what the requirements are to get a vehicle here in El Salvador.  The truth is that the public transportation system is extensive but dangerous in some parts, therefore a vehicle will become necessary if you plan to live and work in El Salvador.

Purchasing a vehicle is quite simple.  You can purchase a vehicle at a car lot or from a private owner.  Car lot's usually prepare the "purchase paperwork" for you.  A private seller does not, you will need to find a lawyer.  It's a simple process.

Step 1.  Make offer on vehicle, shake hands to confirm the sale.

Step 2.  Seller has to go to a lawyer, buyer usually pays the cost of the paperwork ($20-50).  Paperwork basically states that a sale is occurring, it details names of both seller and buyer and the price, VIN of vehicle, etc.

Requirements: You do not need a DUI to purchase a vehicle however you absolutely need a NIT.

Step 3. Goto Sertracen in San Salvador. Think of this as "DMV".  There webpage is here, http://www.sertracen.com.sv/.

When you arrive at Sertracen you will need to present the paperwork from the lawyer, your DUI (or identity document), NIT and the old tarjeta de circulacion which the owner will give you with the vehicle.

They will then change the tarjeta de circulacion to your name or issue a completely new one for the year if the card is about to expire.  Many people will sell their vehicles when the card is about to expire, making the process easier.

The cost varies based on the vehicle, for a 2001 Ford Escape (SUV) it cost $40.21 for everything.  Most vehicles come with license plates, those do not need to be changed.  If you should buy a vehicle without license plates, you will be charged an additional fee at Setracen.

The Tarjeta de Circulacion is ABSOLUTELY required.  Driving without this card will result in severe consequences which include having your vehicle impounded, severe fines and possibly a few days being detained.


You do not need to worry about insurance in El Salvador.  It is simply not required, however it is recommended.  Many people do not use insurance, including myself.  When I went to purchase insurance, it was cheap but covers practically nothing.  The decision is yours, but accidents are more likely here due to the crazy driving.

Once you obtain the Tarjeta de Circulacion it has to remain in the vehicle, like a registration.  It lasts for the year.  That is the only thing you need after buying the vehicle, you are then ready to drive.

The process is truly easy and Sertracen is surprisingly efficent.  It shouldn't take too long in Sertracen.

Once you apply for the tarjeta it does take a week to actually get it.  They run a check to ensure you have no outstanding tickets, etc.

You can check the status of the application online, in real-time.  This is very neat and surprisingly modern.  When you visit the Sertracen building, go alone.  They absolutely do not let guests enter and there is no seating out front, so your friends or family will have to sit on the ground.  Only the person who will be asking for the card is allowed to enter.

(Setracen San Salvador, El Salvador)