In Russia, a car can be bought without holding a driver’s license. This surprising possibility has appeared in Russian media, which cites the legal department of a major car importer. The report explains that ownership transfers the moment payment is made, and the buyer becomes the legal owner even before they can drive. After purchase, the vehicle must be registered with the State Traffic Inspectorate and an MTPL policy must be arranged within ten days. Because driving without a license is not allowed, the car may not be driven on public roads until a licensed driver is available. Dealers and brokers sometimes arrange practical options to move or store the car until the licensing steps are complete. These options include delivering the vehicle to a different warehouse through a special transaction, calling a tow truck, or coordinating with someone in the buyer’s circle who has authorization to transport the vehicle. This sequence shows that ownership is a separate right from the ability to operate the vehicle on public streets.
Experts note that the prohibition on driving without a license remains in force. Yet the process of acquiring a car can proceed as normal in terms of ownership. Once payment is made, the buyer becomes the legal owner, and the next steps involve registration with the State Traffic Inspectorate and arranging an MTPL policy within the ten day window. To complete registration, someone must physically bring the car to the traffic police for the necessary inspections and paperwork. In practice, this often means the dealer or another trusted driver coordinates the transport or accompanies the vehicle to the inspection point. The MTPL insurance is mandatory and provides coverage for third party liability in case of an accident. Without it, penalties apply and the ownership cannot be fully registered, delaying lawful operation of the vehicle.
Earlier this year, Russia saw the start of sales for AvtoVAZ’s most expensive model, a move that drew attention to the market’s ongoing evolution. This development signals continued consumer interest in premium configurations from the well known domestic automaker. The broader takeaway remains that ownership processes and the ability to drive are separate issues, especially in the context of licensing rules that affect how vehicles can be moved before license possession is established.