Each move has its share of administrative procedures to carry out. But forgetting to do this on time means exposing yourself to a fine of 135 euros.
Moving is a thousand little things to think about. Besides the organization itself – with sorting things, boxes to move or even renting a truck for large furniture for example – there is also the administrative angle, which creates a lot of sweat for most of us. And if certain steps are self-evident, because their necessity becomes apparent very quickly, such as establishing a new contract with an electricity supplier, others, however, are less obvious.
Declare your change of address to the Post Office, the Caf, taxes and all the necessary organizations, notify your employer, renew your home insurance, register on the electoral lists in the event of a change of municipality… So many details, however essential, that we tend to forget or put off indefinitely. Few know it, but this procrastination can be costly. Because failing to launch certain procedures on time can result in a fine.
This is particularly the case for a change that no one thinks about: that of the registration certificate, formerly called the registration document. All car owners or lessees who move are required to report their change of address, under penalty of being punished with the fine provided for fourth class fines, namely 135 euros. And the deadline to do so is tight to say the least: only one month. The process is free for up to three change of address declarations, but costs 2.76 euros from the fourth time, or if you have old registration plates dating from before 2009. The change of address must be carried out on the internet or with an authorized professional, who can be found on the website of the National Agency for Secure Titles (ANTS). In both cases, some documents are required: proof of the new address less than six months old, a valid identity document and of course, the existing registration certificate.
However, some exceptions apply: in the case of a leasing or long-term rental (LLD) vehicle, it is the lending organization which must take the step. Also, if it is a move to France after living abroad, specific rules must be taken into account. The change is always mandatory and must also be made within one month, but the documents required depend on the country of origin of the registration plates, and the price of the new registration document depends on the type of vehicle. Simulators are set up on the public service site to find out the details of the approach in each individual situation.
