● How to buy a car

□Since the process in buying a car is very complicated, it is better to purchase a car from a car dealer.
□In case you buy a car from a dealer, you will pay other charges in addition to the purchase price (including 
other charges aside from the car price, tax, insurance premium for car damage compensation, license plate) but the complicated procedures will be done for you.
□ You will need, among others, a registered seal (jitsuin - the registration of a seal is done by the clerk in charge at　the city registrar’s office), certificate of garage/parking lot (shakoshoomei - to be applied for at the police department that has jurisdiction of the garage/parking lot area).

Sale and Transfer of Cars Between Individuals
The procedures in transferring ownership of a car and in changing insurance name are troublesome, and a seal
certificate and other documents are also needed. Also, if the necessary procedures are not done properly,
it will be difficult to deal with accidents or other problems that may occur. It is, therefore, better to avoid the
private sale and transfer of cars. However, if this cannot be avoided, you had better seek the assistance of
an expert or notary public (with fee).

●Insurance

□ For car insurance, compulsory insurance (jibaiseki – compulsory automobile liability insurance) and optional 
insurance are available. 
□ You are obliged to obtain compulsory insurance when you buy a car.
□ In case of accidents, the compensation from compulsory insurance is not adequate, so it is better to obtain 
optional insurance.
●Car Inspection
□ Car inspection for new cars should be done after three (3) years and every two (2) years thereafter.
□ Car inspection is very costly (inspection registration application fee, compulsory automobile liability insurance,
weight tax, repair cost) so be prepared.
●Automobile Tax
□ Ordinary automobile tax for ordinary cars and compact car tax for compact cars are paid every year.
□ The tax receipt is needed for your car’s inspection so keep it carefully.
●Child Seat
□ Children below 6 years old should be seated on a child seat.
＊ In Sasayama, there is a subsidy system for those who wish to buy a child seat.
▼For inquiries, call the citizen’s section of the city hall ☎079-552-1111
●Car Disposal
□ Undergo the necessary procedures for car disposal.
・You will also have to dispose of the car’s body yourself.
□ When you give the car to somebody, you have to process the transfer of ownership.
＊ If you do not follow the proper procedures for car disposal and transfer of ownership, you will have to 
continue paying automobile tax, insurance and others.