Car Registration in Lithuania 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick answer

Registering a car in Lithuania costs €14-30 at Regitra (plus €10-15 for plates) and takes 1-2 hours with all documents ready. According to WHEELSTREET data, the most common mistake buyers make is forgetting the pollution tax certificate — imported cars over 3 years old require a valid technical inspection before registration.

Have you just bought a car or are planning to do so in the coming weeks? Then you will inevitably face one question: how do you properly register a vehicle? The process may seem complicated -- documents, fees, queues at Regitra -- but in reality it is simpler than most people think. You just need to know the correct order of steps.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about car registration in Lithuania in 2026: from registering a new car to importing from Germany, from temporary plates to special cases. We will explain each step in detail, with exact fees and deadlines.

What you will find in this article:

• The general registration process and what Regitra is
• New car registration
• Used car transfer (change of ownership)
• Car registration from abroad (import)
• Temporary and transit plates
• All fees and prices for 2026 -- tables
• Online registration
• Special cases: inheritance, leasing, company car
• Frequently asked questions

Car Registration in Lithuania: The General Process

What Is Regitra and What Is Its Role?

Regitra (official name -- AB "Regitra") is the state enterprise responsible for vehicle registration in Lithuania. This is where the entire process takes place: from vehicle identity verification to the issuance of license plates and preparation of the registration certificate.

Regitra has branches throughout Lithuania -- in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda, Siauliai, Panevezys, Alytus, Marijampole, Taurage, Telsiai, Utena, and other cities. You can book a visit online or come in person.

When Do You Need to Register a Car?

Car registration is mandatory in the following cases:

1. You are buying a new car -- first-time registration in Lithuania
2. You are buying a used car from another person in Lithuania -- change of ownership (transfer)
3. You are importing a car from abroad -- first-time registration from another country
4. You inherit a car -- change of ownership based on inheritance documents
5. The vehicle holder changes -- e.g., transferred to another family member or a company

Important Deadline: 10 Days

Under Lithuanian law, car registration (change of ownership) must be completed within 10 calendar days from the date the purchase-sale contract is signed. Late registration may result in a fine.

SDK -- Owner Declaration Code

Since May 1, 2021, Lithuania has an SDK (owner declaration code) system. This is a unique eight-letter code generated every time a vehicle changes ownership.

How does it work?

1. The seller declares the sale of the vehicle (an SDK code is generated)
2. The buyer confirms the acquisition and receives the SDK code
3. The buyer uses this code to apply for registration at Regitra

The SDK code can be obtained free of charge online via the Regitra self-service portal or at a Regitra branch (EUR 4.20). This system was created to combat the shadow trade in cars and to protect buyers.

Important: If you are buying a car from abroad, the SDK code must also be obtained before importing the vehicle into Lithuanian territory.

New Car Registration

Are you buying a brand-new car from an official dealership in Lithuania? This is the simplest registration scenario, as the dealership handles most of the formalities.

Step by Step

1. You sign the purchase contract at the dealership

The dealership prepares all required documents: the purchase-sale contract, COC (certificate of conformity), and the invoice.

2. The dealership handles the registration

Most official dealerships in Lithuania offer registration as a service. They will:

• Declare ownership and obtain the SDK code
• Submit documents to Regitra
• Order license plates
• Obtain the registration certificate

3. You receive the car with plates

Usually within 1--5 business days, the car will be ready with license plates and a registration certificate.

Required Documents

How Much Does It Cost?

New car registration costs approximately EUR 30--60 (Regitra service fee + license plates + registration certificate). However, if the car's CO2 emissions exceed 130 g/km, you will also need to pay a registration tax (more details in the fees section below).

Tip: Dealerships often include registration fees in the car price. Before signing the contract, ask whether registration is included or will be charged separately.

Used Car Transfer

This is the most common scenario in Lithuania -- you buy a used car from another Lithuanian resident and need to transfer it to your name. The process is straightforward, but it is important to follow the correct order.

Required Documents

From the seller:

• Vehicle registration certificate (technical passport)
• Purchase-sale contract (2 copies)
• SDK code (generated by the seller via the Regitra self-service portal)

From the buyer:

• Identity document (passport or ID card)
• Valid vehicle inspection (TA) -- if it has expired, it must be renewed before registration
• Valid MTPL insurance (mandatory third-party liability insurance)

Step by Step

1. Sign the purchase-sale contract

The contract must include: seller and buyer details, car make, model, VIN number, license plate number, sale price, date, and signatures. The contract can be downloaded from the Regitra website or drafted in free form.

2. The seller declares the sale (SDK)

The seller declares the vehicle transfer via the Regitra self-service portal (savitarna.regitra.lt). An SDK code is generated and passed to the buyer.

3. The buyer confirms the acquisition

The buyer confirms the vehicle acquisition via the Regitra self-service portal using the SDK code received.

4. Check the validity of TA and MTPL insurance

• Vehicle inspection (TA): check if it is still valid. If not -- complete it before visiting Regitra. More about TA: Vehicle Inspection 2026: Prices and Requirements
• MTPL insurance: must be valid in your (the new owner's) name. You can purchase insurance online in a few minutes.

5. Book a visit at Regitra

Go to regitra.lt and book a visit at the nearest branch. This will save you waiting time. You can also come without a reservation, but you may have to wait.

6. Visit Regitra with your documents

At Regitra:

• The vehicle identity is verified (VIN number)
• Documents are checked
• A new registration certificate is issued
• License plates are assigned (if new ones are needed)

7. Pay the fees

Fees can be paid on-site by card or bank transfer.

What Changes During a Transfer?

How Long Does It Take?

If all documents are in order, the transfer at Regitra takes 30--60 minutes. You will receive the registration certificate on-site or within a few business days by post/courier.

How Much Does a Used Car Transfer Cost?

Approximate prices:

Important: The registration tax depends on the vehicle's CO2 emissions and fuel type. For cars with emissions up to 130 g/km, no registration tax applies.

Car Registration From Abroad

Importing a car from Germany, Poland, or another EU country? The process is somewhat more complex than a local transfer, but entirely manageable. The key is knowing the correct sequence of steps.

Read more about the actual buying process in Germany here: Buying a Car in Germany 2026: Complete Guide

Importing From EU Countries (Germany, Poland, France, etc.)

Since Lithuania is an EU member, importing a car from another EU country does not require paying customs duty. However, there are other mandatory steps.

Required Documents for EU Import

Step by Step: EU Import

1. Buy the car abroad

Sign the purchase-sale contract and collect all documents: the registration certificate, COC certificate (if available), and service documentation.

2. Obtain the SDK code (before importing!)

Declare the vehicle acquisition via the Regitra self-service portal and obtain the SDK code. This can be done free of charge online before bringing the car to Lithuania. This has been a mandatory step since 2021.

3. Deliver the car to Lithuania

You can drive it yourself (with foreign plates or transit plates) or transport it on a trailer. If driving yourself, do not forget insurance valid for the entire route.

4. Complete the vehicle inspection (TA)

An imported car must pass a vehicle inspection in Lithuania. TA stations check the vehicle's technical condition, identification data (VIN), and compliance with Lithuanian road traffic requirements.

TA prices in 2026:

• Petrol car: ~EUR 25--35
• Diesel car: ~EUR 29--35
• LPG/CNG car: ~EUR 31--35

More: Vehicle Inspection 2026: Prices and Requirements

5. Pay the registration tax

The registration tax depends on the vehicle's CO2 emissions and fuel type. If CO2 emissions do not exceed 130 g/km -- there is no tax. You can calculate and pay the tax via the Regitra self-service portal.

6. Book a visit at Regitra and go

Submit all documents. At Regitra:

• The vehicle identity is established
• TA, insurance, and documents are verified
• Remaining fees are paid (plates, registration certificate)
• Lithuanian license plates and a registration certificate are issued

When There Is No COC Certificate

COC (Certificate of Conformity) is a manufacturer's document confirming that the car meets EU requirements. It is necessary when registering an imported car for the first time.

If the seller does not have the COC:

• You can order it from the manufacturer's representative (dealer) in Germany or another country. It costs approximately EUR 100--300.
• In some cases, Regitra may register the car without a COC, but additional expertise may be required.

Tip: Always request the COC certificate before buying the car. This will save time and money during registration.

Importing From Non-EU Countries (UK, USA, Ukraine, etc.)

If the car is purchased from a non-EU / non-EEA country, the process is more complex:

1. Customs procedures -- you must declare the import at customs and pay customs duty (usually 10%) and VAT (21%)
2. Technical expertise -- a specialist's assessment of the vehicle's technical condition and compliance is required
3. Customs documents -- import declaration (SAD)
4. The remaining steps are the same: TA, SDK, Regitra

Real Cost Example: BMW 320d Import From Germany

Let's see how much it actually costs to import and register a popular car -- BMW 320d (G20), 2019, 150 g/km CO2, diesel.

Note: In this example, the car is from an EU country, so there is no customs duty. If the CO2 emissions were lower (e.g., 125 g/km), the registration tax would be EUR 0, and the total would be significantly lower.

Considering buying a car from Germany? Our team can help you find the best option -- learn more about the car sourcing service.

Temporary Plates

Transit Plates -- What Are They?

Transit (temporary) plates are temporary license plates intended for a vehicle that is not yet fully registered in Lithuania. They allow temporary use of the vehicle on Lithuanian territory or its transport.

When Do You Need Transit Plates?

• You are importing a car from abroad and have not yet fully registered it
• The car is waiting for a vehicle inspection
• The car is being bought/sold and has not yet been transferred
• The vehicle is being transported from one location to another

Transit Plate Validity

How to Get Transit Plates?

1. Contact a Regitra branch or use the self-service portal
2. Submit: identity document, vehicle origin document (purchase-sale contract, foreign registration certificate), valid MTPL insurance
3. Pay the fee
4. Receive transit plates and a temporary registration certificate

How Much Do Transit Plates Cost?

Fines for Expired Transit Plates

Driving with expired transit plates is an offence:

• Fine: EUR 60--120
• Additionally: driving privileges may be suspended for 1 to 3 months

Tip: Do not delay registration. Transit plates are a temporary solution, not a way to "stretch out" the registration process. The sooner you sort everything out, the more at ease you will feel on the road.

Dealer (Temporary) Plates

In addition to transit plates, there are also dealer (temporary) plates intended for car dealerships. They allow one set of plates to be used for multiple vehicles (for demonstration, test drives, etc.). Dealer plates are issued only to legal entities holding a car trading license.

Registration Fees and Prices 2026

One of the most common questions: how much does car registration cost? The answer depends on several factors. Below -- all fees in one place.

1. Regitra Service Fees

Important: When registration services are performed online (via the Regitra self-service portal), a 20% discount applies.

2. License Plate Prices

Note: From January 1, 2026, prices for reservable and personalised plates have changed. Personalised plates increased from EUR 1,500 to EUR 2,500.

3. Registration Tax (Based on CO2 Emissions)

The registration tax applies only to passenger cars when their CO2 emissions exceed 130 g/km. The tax is paid:

• When registering a new car for the first time
• When registering an imported car
• When changing the vehicle's owner/holder

2025--2026 registration tax rates:

Electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids with 0 g/km CO2 emissions do not pay the registration tax.

How to find your car's CO2 emissions? They are stated on the registration certificate (in the "Marks" field or V.7 field). You can also check via the Regitra self-service portal or in the manufacturer's specifications.

4. Vehicle Inspection (TA)

5. MTPL Insurance

MTPL (mandatory third-party liability insurance) is required for every car. The price varies greatly depending on the driver's age, experience, vehicle type, and insurance history.

Tip: Use online insurance calculators for comparison -- the price difference between insurers can be 2--3 times.

Total Registration Cost: 3 Scenarios

Scenario 1: Used car from Lithuania (CO2 up to 130 g/km)

Scenario 2: Used car from Lithuania (CO2 160 g/km, petrol)

Scenario 3: Import from Germany (CO2 180 g/km, diesel)

Online Registration

Regitra is constantly expanding its range of electronic services. Here is what can be done online, without visiting a branch:

What Can Be Done Via the Regitra Self-Service Portal (savitarna.regitra.lt)?

• Declare ownership (obtain the SDK code) -- free of charge
• Confirm vehicle acquisition -- free of charge
• Extend transit plate validity -- from home
• Pay the registration tax -- via electronic banking
• Book a visit at a Regitra branch -- choose a date and time
• Order registration certificate delivery by courier (~EUR 3.40) or to a parcel terminal (~EUR 2.70)
• View vehicle data -- TA validity, registration history
• Check the registration tax -- calculator based on vehicle data

What Cannot Be Done Online Yet?

• Vehicle identity verification -- a physical visit is still required so that a specialist can check the VIN number
• Receiving license plates -- physically collected at a branch or sent by post/courier
• First-time registration of an imported vehicle -- a physical visit is required for identity verification

20% Online Discount

When registration services are performed via the self-service portal, a 20% discount applies to registration service fees (registration certificate, certain administrative services). This is a real opportunity to save a few euros.

Login

The Regitra self-service portal can be accessed via:

• Electronic banking
• Mobile signature
• ID card with a reader

Registration Process at Regitra: Step by Step

Here is a detailed plan for a registration visit to Regitra, so you know what to expect.

Before the Visit

During the Visit

Total Time

• Preparation at home: 30 min -- 2 hrs (depending on TA needs)
• Visit to Regitra: 30--60 min (with a booking)
• Visit without a booking: up to 2--3 hrs (depending on queues)

Tip: Arrive in the morning, right when they open -- fewer people. And always book online -- you will save not only time but also money (20% discount).

Special Cases

Inherited Vehicle

If you received a car as an inheritance, the registration process differs slightly:

Required documents:

• Notarially certified certificate of inheritance
• Identity document
• Vehicle registration certificate (if available)
• Valid TA and MTPL insurance

Process:

1. A notary certifies the right of inheritance
2. You go to Regitra with the inheritance certificate
3. The vehicle is transferred to your name
4. The registration tax is paid (if applicable based on CO2)

Deadline: The vehicle must be re-registered within 30 days from receiving the certificate of inheritance.

Important: In the case of inheritance, the SDK system does not apply in the standard manner -- the transfer of ownership occurs based on the notarial document.

Leased Vehicle

A common question: who registers a leased car -- me or the leasing company?

Answer: A leased car is registered in the leasing company's name as the holder. You are listed as the user. The leasing company typically handles all the registration itself.

What you need to know:

• The registration certificate will list the leasing company as the holder
• MTPL insurance is usually taken out in your name
• When you buy out the car, you need to complete a transfer to your name -- this follows the standard ownership change procedure
• The registration tax is paid at the time of first registration (usually already included in the leasing payments)

More about leasing: Car Financing: Leasing or Loan?

Company Vehicle (Legal Entity)

When registering a car in a company's name, the process is essentially the same, but there are a few differences:

Additional documents:

• Company registration certificate or extract from the Register of Legal Entities
• Document confirming the right of representation (power of attorney or protocol)
• Identity document of the person carrying out the registration

What is different:

• The vehicle is registered in the legal entity's name
• The registration tax applies under the same rules
• TA and MTPL insurance requirements are the same
• VAT deduction nuances may apply (consult your accountant)

Vehicle Without Plates

What to do if you purchased a car without license plates?

Possible scenarios:

• The car was deregistered (plates returned to Regitra)
• Plates were lost or stolen
• An imported car with foreign plates that need to be replaced

Solution:

1. Obtain transit plates (if you need to drive to TA or Regitra)
2. Transport the car by trailer to the TA station and/or Regitra
3. During registration, Regitra will issue new license plates

Price: A new pair of standard license plates -- EUR 7.20.

Right-Hand Drive Vehicle

Right-hand drive vehicles can be registered in Lithuania, but they must meet additional requirements:

• Headlight adjustment (must illuminate to the right side, adapted for right-hand traffic)
• Additional expertise may be required
• Headlight suitability is checked during TA

FAQ -- Frequently Asked Questions

How soon do I need to register a purchased car?

Within 10 calendar days from signing the purchase-sale contract (local purchase). For an imported car -- within 10 days from declaring ownership.

How much does car registration cost in Lithuania?

The approximate cost is from EUR 20 to EUR 800+, depending on the car's CO2 emissions, fuel type, and whether new license plates are needed. If CO2 emissions do not exceed 130 g/km -- only ~EUR 20--35 (excluding MTPL insurance).

Can I register a car online?

Part of the process -- yes: SDK declaration, registration tax payment, visit booking, and transit plate extension. However, a physical visit to Regitra is still required for identity verification and receiving plates.

Can I keep the old plates when transferring a car?

Yes, when transferring a used car in Lithuania, the plates usually remain the same. If you want different plates -- you can order new ones.

Can I transfer my plates to a different car?

Yes, this is called a license plate transfer. Regitra provides the option to transfer your favourite plates to a new car. An administration fee of EUR 6.66 applies.

What is an SDK code and do I need one?

SDK (owner declaration code) is a mandatory eight-letter code generated every time a vehicle changes ownership. Yes, it is required for every car purchase-sale since 2021.

What should I do if I lost my registration certificate?

Contact Regitra for a duplicate. Submit your identity document and fill out an application. The duplicate costs approximately EUR 11 (with an online discount -- ~EUR 9).

Do I need a vehicle inspection when transferring a car?

If the current TA is valid -- no additional TA is needed. If the TA has expired -- it must be completed before registration.

How long are transit plates valid?

30 days. They can be extended once for another 30 days. Maximum period -- 60 days.

Do electric vehicles pay the registration tax?

No. Electric vehicles with 0 g/km CO2 emissions do not pay the registration tax.

How much does it cost to register a car from abroad?

Approximate cost (excluding the car itself and transport): EUR 50--800+, depending on CO2 emissions. The main expenses are: TA (~EUR 25--35), registration tax (EUR 0--753), Regitra services (~EUR 30--40), MTPL insurance (~EUR 80--200).

Can I register a car at a branch other than my place of residence?

Yes, you can apply at any Regitra branch in Lithuania, regardless of your registered address.

Summary

Car registration in Lithuania in 2026 is a clear and structured process that can be completed smoothly if you know the correct sequence of steps:

Key things to remember:

1. SDK code -- mandatory for every car purchase-sale. Obtain it first (free of charge online).
2. 10-day deadline -- do not delay registration after purchase.
3. TA and MTPL insurance -- arrange these before visiting Regitra.
4. Registration tax -- depends on CO2 emissions. Up to 130 g/km -- no tax.
5. Book your visit online -- you will save both time and money (20% discount).
6. For importers -- obtain the SDK code before bringing the car in, and do not forget the COC certificate.

The entire process, from purchase to a fully registered car with Lithuanian plates, can be completed in 1--3 days (if all documents are in order).

Looking for a car? Our team helps find the best car for your budget and needs -- both from Lithuania and from abroad. Contact us or learn more about the car sourcing service.

You may also find useful:

• 🏆 Car Registration in Lithuania -- complete registration guide
• 🚗 Buying a Car From Germany -- import guide
• 🔍 WheelStreet Car Sourcing -- we buy and handle all documentation
• 💰 Used Cars at WHEELSTREET -- cars with prepared documents
• 📚 VIN Check -- Glossary
• 📚 Leasing -- Glossary

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