Buying a Car in Turkey as a Foreigner (2025 Guide)
Tax-Free Vehicles, Registration, and Insurance Explained
Buying a car in Turkey as a foreigner is easier than you might expect — especially in 2025, where simplified processes, growing expat communities, and tax exemptions make it an appealing option. Whether you’re planning to live in Turkey long-term or want the convenience of your own vehicle during your stay, this guide walks you through everything from purchasing options to registration and insurance.
🚘 Can Foreigners Buy Cars in Turkey?
Yes, foreigners can legally purchase cars in Turkey, either brand-new or second-hand. You don’t need to be a Turkish citizen to own a vehicle. However, your legal status (residency permit vs. tourist visa) will impact your eligibility for certain benefits such as tax-free vehicle options and long-term registration.
🔵 Option 1: Tax-Free “Blue Plate” Vehicles (Mavi Plaka)
If you're a foreigner with legal residence in Turkey (short- or long-term), you may be eligible to import or buy a tax-exempt vehicle, known as a “Mavi Plaka” car.
💡 What Is a Blue Plate Car?
Vehicles that are exempt from ÖTV (Special Consumption Tax) and KDV (Value Added Tax)
Meant only for foreigners who do not hold Turkish citizenship
Assigned a special blue-background license plate
Cannot be used by Turkish citizens or rented out
Must be registered with TRAFİK TESCİL ŞUBE and customs authorities
Who Qualifies?
To buy or import a tax-free car in Turkey, you must be:
A foreign citizen with a valid residence permit
Registered with the Tourism, Trade, or Education sectors (such as a teacher, diplomat, student, or business owner)
Planning to stay in Turkey for at least 1 year or more
🟠 Option 2: Regular Car Purchase in Turkey
If you're not eligible for a blue plate vehicle or simply prefer to buy a car directly in Turkey like a local, you can do so with full taxes applied.
Requirements:
Valid passport
Tax ID number
Turkish residence address (rental contract or tapu)
Turkish mobile number
If second-hand: signed sales agreement from notary or via e-Devlet
Most dealerships and second-hand marketplaces such as Sahibinden.com, Letgo, or Galeriler assist foreigners with these processes.
🛂 Registration Process (Step-by-Step)
Obtain a Turkish Tax Number from your local tax office or online at ivd.gib.gov.tr
Choose a car and negotiate the deal
Have the vehicle inspected at Tüvtürk (required for older cars)
Complete the sales transaction via notary or e-Government system
Register the vehicle under your name at the Trafik Tescil (Traffic Registry Office)
Get your license plates and registration documents
Take out mandatory traffic insurance (zorunlu trafik sigortası) and optionally comprehensive insurance (kasko)
🚦 Driving with Foreign License or Turkish License?
You can use your foreign driver’s license for up to 6 months
After that, you must either:
Convert your license (if your country has a bilateral agreement)
Take the Turkish driving test to obtain a local license
Pro tip: Translation and notarization of your foreign license is often required when registering your car.
💰 Cost Breakdown
ExpenseEstimated Cost (TRY)Tax ID NumberFreeNotary/Transfer Fee (Second-hand)1,000 – 3,000Registration & License Plates2,500 – 5,000Compulsory Insurance (Zorunlu)2,000 – 4,000/yearOptional Comprehensive Insurance4,000 – 10,000/yearVehicle Inspection (TÜVTÜRK)~1,500
🔐 Important Notes
Blue plate vehicles cannot be sold to Turkish citizens
If you leave Turkey permanently, the tax-free car must be exported, transferred, or taxed
Always check the vehicle’s debt status, fines, and accident history before buying (can be done through e-Devlet)
Foreigners cannot register a car to a business name unless they own the company
🚗 Leasing or Renting Alternatives
Not ready to buy? You can also lease or rent a car long-term from expat-friendly services. Many car rental companies now offer discounted rates for residence permit holders and long-term visitors.
✅ Final Thoughts
Owning a car in Turkey as a foreigner is a great way to gain independence, especially if you're outside big cities like Istanbul. The key is knowing whether you qualify for tax-exempt status and understanding the registration process.
Our legal office can assist you with:
Verifying car purchase contracts
Blue plate registration eligibility
Traffic violations or disputes
Driver’s license conversion
Legal support in accidents or insurance claims
📌 Need help buying a car in Turkey legally and smoothly?
Get in touch for professional support:
🌐 www.ensariyigitcancakmak.av.tr
ensaricakmak@istanbulbarosu.org.tr
📞 +90 533 194 52 14
