If you own a car in Malaysia, you’ve probably heard the term “car grant” or geran before.
Officially known as the Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC), this document is essential for proving ownership of your vehicle.
Whether you’re a first-time car owner or someone who misplaced their grant, understanding what it is, why it matters, and how to replace it is crucial.
Fun fact: The old Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC) was phased out and replaced by the VOC in June 2016.
So, if you still have an older version, it’s still valid, but newer cars are issued a VOC instead.
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What is a Car Grant (Vehicle Ownership Certificate)?
The Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC) is issued by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and serves as proof that a vehicle legally belongs to you. It contains key details such as:
- Vehicle registration number
- Engine and chassis numbers
- Owner’s details (name and MyKad number)
Even though JPJ has digital records of vehicle ownership, having a physical copy of your car grant is still important for certain transactions.
Why is Your Car Grant Important?
Many car owners only think about their car grant when they need it for something major. Here are key reasons why you should keep it safe:
- Selling Your Car – If you ever want to sell your vehicle, the buyer (or dealer) will need the original car grant for verification.
- Transferring Ownership – When passing the car to another person, you’ll need to surrender the original certificate.
- Road Tax and Insurance – You don’t need the physical grant to renew your road tax or insurance, but it’s useful for reference.
- Loan and Financing Matters – If your car is under financing, the bank usually keeps the grant until the loan is settled.
What to Do if You Lost Your Car Grant?
Losing your car grant is annoying, but it happens.
Whether you misplaced it, it got stolen, or damaged beyond recognition, you can get a replacement through one of these 3 methods:
1. Visiting a JPJ Counter
This is the most direct method to replace a lost car grant.
Steps for the registered owner:
- Bring your MyKad (original and copy).
- Fill out two copies of the JPJ K7 form.
- Submit everything to the JPJ officer.
- Pay the required RM50 fee for a replacement.
- Receive your new VOC after verification.
For Deceased Owners:
- The legal beneficiary must provide:
- Death certificate of the previous owner.
- Proof of relationship (e.g., birth/marriage certificate).
- Court-certified documents such as a Probate Grant Letter, Declaration by Amanah Raya, or Estate Administrator’s Letter.
- JPJ K7 form signed by the appointed beneficiary.
- PUSPAKOM inspection approval (if ownership is transferred).
2. Using a JPJ Kiosk
Some JPJ kiosks allow you to print a copy of your VOC. Here’s how:
- Insert your MyKad and scan your right thumbprint.
- Select Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC).
- Review your details on the screen.
- Make payment (RM50 via debit card).
- Print out the new certificate.
3. Requesting from Your Bank (if under loan)
If your car is still under a hire purchase agreement, your bank holds the original grant.
You can request a copy under the Hire Purchase Amendment Act 2010:
- Visit the bank where you took the loan.
- Fill out their request form.
- Provide your MyKad for verification.
- Once approved, the bank will issue a copy of the VOC.
If you’ve fully settled your loan but haven’t received your grant, contact your bank immediately to retrieve it.
How to Transfer Ownership of a Vehicle from a Deceased Owner?
If a car owner has passed away, their vehicle becomes part of their estate. Here’s how to handle the transfer:
- Obtain Legal Documents – Secure necessary paperwork such as:
- Probate Grant Letter
- Amanah Raya Declaration
- Estate Administrator’s Letter
- Get PUSPAKOM Inspection (B5) – This ensures the car is roadworthy before transfer.
- Update Insurance – Transfer the policy to the new owner’s name.
- Submit to JPJ – Present the required forms at JPJ to complete the ownership transfer.
Other Important Points Regarding Your Car Grant
Stolen Grant? File a Police Report
If your car grant was stolen, make a police report immediately.
JPJ may require a copy of the report when issuing a replacement.
Damaged Grant? Get a Replacement
If your VOC is torn, faded, or unreadable, visit JPJ to request a new one.
The process is similar to replacing a lost grant.
Not Received After Loan Settlement?
Once you’ve paid off your car loan, the bank should return your car grant.
If they haven’t, follow up with them or request a copy from JPJ.
Keep Your Car Grant Safe!
Even though JPJ has an online record of ownership, the physical car grant is still needed for major transactions like selling your car. Here are some tips to keep it safe:
- Store it in a dedicated folder with your other car-related documents.
- Make photocopies or scan a digital copy for reference.
- Label it clearly so you don’t misplace it.
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Conclusion
Your car grant in Malaysia (VOC) is a crucial document that proves vehicle ownership.
While it may not be needed daily, it’s essential for selling, transferring ownership, and loan matters.
Losing it isn’t the end of the world, as you can easily get a replacement through JPJ or your bank.
To avoid unnecessary hassle, keep your car grant safe and organized.
If you ever need to replace it, now you know exactly what to do!
For the latest updates, visit the JPJ website or contact your nearest JPJ office.
