Buying a Used Car or Motorcycle in Pakistan? Complete Verification Checklist

Step 1 — Document Verification

• Registration book (log book) — check it's original, not a photocopy or re-issue
• MTMIS verification — go to mtmis.excise.punjab.gov.pk and enter the registration number. Checks title, owner name, token tax status
• For Sindh: excise.sindh.gov.pk for Sindh-registered vehicles
• Chassis number — physically inspect the chassis number on the frame and compare to registration book. A mismatch = stolen or tampered vehicle
• Engine number — compare engine number on the engine block to registration book
• Token tax receipt — all previous years must be paid or you inherit the liability
• Transfer letter — ask seller to prepare this, signed and thumb-impressed
• Seller's CNIC — must match the name on the registration book exactly

Step 2 — Stolen Vehicle Check

• MTMIS stolen vehicle check — search the MTMIS database for 'stolen' status
• Police verification letter — request one from the seller. Worth insisting on for vehicles above PKR 500,000
• Chassis number tampering signs — look for grinding, welding, or repainting around the number area
• Original number plate — verify the plate number matches registration. Fake plates are common on stolen vehicles

Step 3 — Physical Inspection

For Cars

• Body condition — check for panel gaps, repainted sections (sign of accident repair)
• Under the hood — oil level, coolant, any leaks
• Test drive — minimum 20 minutes including highway speed
• Tyres — check tread depth and sidewall cracking
• AC system — test cooling. AC repairs cost PKR 20,000–80,000
• Odometer reading — high mileage is fine if maintained; low mileage on an old car may indicate tampered odometer

For Motorcycles

• Chain condition — slack, rusted, or stretched chain needs immediate replacement
• Front and rear brakes — must engage smoothly with no grinding
• Engine sound — should start first kick and idle smoothly without knocking
• Frame inspection — any bends or welds indicate accident damage

Step 4 — After Purchase

• Transfer at Excise & Taxation Office within 30 days
• New insurance policy in your name (Jubilee, Adamjee, UBL Insurers)
• Update MTMIS — verify the transfer appears in your name online after processing
• Attach a Nishaaan QR tag to vehicle frame for permanent identification