1. What the SDK confirms—and what it does not

Regitra states that Lithuanian residents may sell only vehicles that already have an SDK. Without a valid code, the ownership change cannot be declared and the buyer cannot register the vehicle in their name.

The SDK is not the VIN, registration number or registration certificate. Those details should still be checked separately and must match the vehicle and the contract.

2. How to find and check the code

Regitra provides online services for finding an assigned SDK, checking declaration information and searching for a vehicle by its code. A code shown on an older document should still be checked before a new transaction rather than copied blindly.

According to Regitra, an SDK was generated automatically for vehicles registered in Lithuania before 1 May 2021. Use the official service and compare the code with the particular vehicle before signing.

Official source: Regitra: SDK search (in Lithuanian)

3. Checks to complete before signing

The SDK is one part of the transaction, not a substitute for checking the rest of the information. Resolve inconsistencies before signing, paying or handing over the car.

Do not send identity-document copies or pages containing unnecessary personal information through a public enquiry form. Share only the information needed for the relevant step and use an appropriate private channel.

  • Check that the SDK is valid and relates to the correct vehicle
  • Compare the seller and declared-owner information
  • Match the VIN and registration number to the documents
  • Enter the SDK, real price and known faults in the contract
  • Keep a completed and signed copy for each party

4. Buyer first, seller second

For a vehicle sold to a Lithuanian resident, Regitra currently states that the buyer submits the acquisition declaration within 5 working days of the transaction. The seller then has 5 working days from the buyer’s submission to confirm the details.

Once the buyer has submitted and the seller has confirmed the change, the new owner receives a new SDK and the former owner’s code is cancelled. Procedures can change, so check the official instructions again on the transaction date.

Official source: Regitra: vehicle sold to a Lithuanian resident (in Lithuanian)

5. Treat handover as a final checkpoint

Before handing over the keys, make sure the contract is complete, the agreed payment can be confirmed and the declaration details match. Keep your copy of the contract and proof of payment.

Regitra recommends handing the keys to the buyer only after both parties have confirmed the ownership change. Transactions involving a foreign buyer or a vehicle imported from abroad may follow a different process.