Home » Jamaica » Jamaica – Buying or Importing a Car

Jamaica – Buying or Importing a Car

Buying a Car in Jamaica

If you are looking to buy a car in Jamaica, there are several steps you need to follow. Here is a step-by-step guide to buying a car in Jamaica:

Step 1: Find a car

The first step is to find a car that meets your needs and budget. You can search for cars through online classifieds, car dealerships, or auctions.

Step 2: Inspect the car

Before buying a car, it is important to inspect it thoroughly. You can do this yourself or hire a mechanic to inspect the car for you. This will help you identify any potential issues with the car and negotiate the price accordingly.

Step 3: Negotiate the price


Get Our Best Articles Every Month!

Get our free moving abroad email course AND our top stories in your inbox every month


Unsubscribe any time. We respect your privacy - read our privacy policy.


Once you have found a car and inspected it, you need to negotiate the price with the seller. It is common to haggle over the price, so be prepared to negotiate.

Step 4: Complete the paperwork

After agreeing on the price, you need to complete the paperwork. This includes the bill of sale and the transfer of ownership documents.

Step 5: Register the car

Once you have completed the paperwork, you need to register the car with the relevant government agency. You will need to provide proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and pay the applicable fees.

Importing a Car in Jamaica

If you are planning to import a car into Jamaica, there are several steps you need to follow. Here is a step-by-step guide to importing a car into Jamaica:

Step 1: Check eligibility

Before importing a car into Jamaica, you need to check if the car is eligible for import. You can do this by contacting the Trade Board Limited or the Jamaica Customs Agency.

Step 2: Obtain necessary documents

You will need to obtain several documents before importing a car into Jamaica. These include the original registration certificate, proof of ownership, and a certificate of roadworthiness.

Step 3: Pay import duties and taxes

When importing a car into Jamaica, you will need to pay import duties and taxes. These can vary depending on the make and model of the car, so it is important to check the rates before importing.

Step 4: Inspect the car

Before the car can be released from customs, it must undergo an inspection by the Jamaican authorities to ensure that it meets local safety and environmental standards.

Step 5: Register the car

After the car has been released from customs and inspected, you will need to register it with the relevant government agency. You will need to provide proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and pay the applicable fees.

Selling a Car in Jamaica

If you are selling a car in Jamaica, there are several steps you need to follow. Here is a step-by-step guide to selling a car in Jamaica:

Step 1: Obtain necessary documents

Before selling a car, you need to obtain the necessary documents. These include the registration certificate, proof of ownership, and proof of payment of any outstanding taxes or fees.

Step 2: Advertise the car

To sell the car, you need to advertise it. You can do this through online car sales platforms, classified ads in local newspapers, or by placing a “For Sale” sign on the car.

Step 3: Negotiate the price

Once you have found a potential buyer, you need to negotiate the price. It is common to haggle over the price, so be prepared to negotiate.

Step 4: Complete the paperwork

After agreeing on the price, you need to complete the paperwork. You will need to transfer ownership of the car to the buyer and provide them with the necessary documents.

Step 5: Cancel insurance

Finally, you will need to cancel your insurance for the car. Be sure to notify your insurance provider of the sale and cancel your policy to avoid paying for coverage on a car you no longer own.

Buying, importing, or selling a car in Jamaica can be a complex process, but by following the necessary steps and obtaining the required documents, it can be done successfully. It is important to be aware of the specific requirements and procedures in Jamaica to ensure a smooth transaction. If you have any questions or concerns, it is recommended to contact the relevant government agencies or seek legal advice.