Vehicle registration at the prefecture in 2026: still possible? Legal alternatives
Vehicle Registration Document at the Prefecture in 2026: Still Possible?
Since 2017, prefectures no longer accept vehicle registration document applications at their counters. Discover legal, fast, and remote alternatives.
Why do prefectures no longer handle vehicle registration documents?
As part of the government's digital transformation plan, the Ministry of the Interior has transferred the management of vehicle registrations to the ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) and a network of authorized automotive professionals. The goal is to simplify procedures, reduce waiting times, and allow everything to be done from home.
Since this date, going to the prefecture for a vehicle registration document is useless: agents will exclusively direct you to online solutions.
What are the legal alternatives in 2026?
There are two official solutions to obtain your vehicle registration document:
How to get your vehicle registration document online in 2026?
Whether you go through the ANTS or an approved service provider, the procedure is simple:
File verified by our approved experts. Vehicle registration document delivered to your home within 48–72h. Transparent pricing, no surprises.
Can you still go to the prefecture for a vehicle registration document problem?
Yes, but only for exceptional situations that cannot be processed online. In this case, you must make an appointment in advance on your prefecture's website. The cases concerned are rare and limited.
For the vast majority of situations (used car purchase, change of address, duplicate, inheritance, import), the online process is mandatory and sufficient.
Stuck file or complex situation?
If your file is stuck on ANTS or if you have a particular situation (vehicle registration document in the name of the previous owner, imported vehicle, inheritance...), CarteGriseFrançaise.fr relies on a network of approved and authorized professionals to process your registration procedures in full compliance.
Explain your situation, and we will guide you to the best solution.
Frequently asked questions
Can you still get your vehicle registration document at the prefecture?
No. Since November 6, 2017, prefectures no longer accept vehicle registration document applications at their counters. The process is entirely digital via the ANTS or an approved service provider.
Where can you get your vehicle registration document if not at the prefecture?
You have two options: the ANTS (ants.gouv.fr, free of service charges) or a service provider approved by the Ministry of the Interior like CarteGriseFrançaise.fr (file verified, delivery within 48–72h).
How long does an online vehicle registration document take?
Via an approved service provider: 48 to 72 hours on average. Directly via the ANTS: from a few days to several weeks depending on the period. Consult our guide on ANTS processing times 2026.
Is an approved service provider reliable?
Yes, provided they are authorized by the Ministry of the Interior. These service providers have access to the same system as the ANTS and transmit your file directly to government services. The vehicle registration document received is identical.
Can you drive without a vehicle registration document while waiting?
Yes. After your file is validated, you receive a temporary registration certificate (CPI) which allows you to drive for 1 month while waiting for your definitive vehicle registration document.
🏢 Get your vehicle registration document without traveling
CarteGriseFrançaise.fr relies on a network of approved and authorized professionals to process your registration procedures in full compliance. Vehicle registration document received within 48–72h.
Select my procedure →