New Rules for Imported Vehicles Under 3 Years Old in Algeria
Algeria has introduced a special schedule for processing registration applications for vehicles less than three years old imported by Algerians, according to an announcement made on Friday by Farida Lataoui, Deputy Director of Property and Traffic at the Ministry of Interior, Local Authorities, and Regional Planning.”No application will be excluded. Commissions have been established in all wilayas to ensure the smooth execution of this operation,” Lataoui told the official news agency.Special Schedule for Imported Vehicles Under 3 Years Old
The special plan aims to manage the influx of registration applications efficiently. Lataoui explained that applications for vehicles cleared through customs before December 31, 2024, have been accepted since May 11, 2025, while those cleared on or after January 1, 2025, have been processed since June 22, 2025. Owners who have not yet submitted their applications for vehicle registration can do so at a later date.National Vehicle Registration Database Launched
In May 2025, a national vehicle registration database was activated, containing comprehensive information about vehicles and their owners, including the national vehicle identification number (registration number). This database is linked to the Algerian Customs Service’s database for imported vehicles, ensuring greater accuracy, transparency, and instant processing through digitization, according to Lataoui.Restrictions on Vehicles Cleared After January 1, 2025
For vehicles cleared through customs on or after January 1, 2025, their registration certificates will include a “non-transferable for 36 months” restriction, as stipulated by the 2025 Finance Law. This restriction can be lifted in two cases: after the 36-month period expires or upon repayment of the tax benefits granted by the state. Vehicles cleared before December 31, 2024, are exempt from this measure, which was introduced to prevent speculation in the automotive market.Vehicle Sales Now Possible Nationwide
Another key feature of the new national registration database is that vehicle sales can now be conducted in any commune across Algeria, regardless of the seller’s or buyer’s place of residence. Previously, vehicle sales had to be processed at the municipality of the owner’s residence, marking a significant change in the process.
