New era for online vehicle listings: Authorization from the Ministry will be required

The Ministry of Trade has launched the "authorization verification" practice under the Electronic Listing Verification System (EİDS) as of today, aiming to increase security in vehicle listings and prevent unregistered trade.

The transition period for the new practice will continue until April 1, 2025. After this date, auto dealerships without an authorization certificate will not be able to post listings on electronic platforms.

In a statement issued by the Ministry, it was emphasized that strict inspections are continuing to prevent unregistered commercial activities in the second-hand automotive sector and to resolve consumer grievances. It was stated that identity and authorization verification requirements have been introduced to prevent listings that are untrue, deceptive, or cause speculative price increases.

The statement reminded that businesses engaged in second-hand vehicle trading are required to obtain an authorization certificate from the Ministry of Trade, noting: "In 2024, our Ministry issued second-hand motor land vehicle trading authorization certificates to 26 thousand 627 businesses."

Details regarding the authorization verification process were also shared. As of November 1, 2023, identity verification had been made mandatory for vehicle listings. With the second phase that went into effect today, vehicle listings can now only be posted by the vehicle owner, their first and second-degree relatives, or certified businesses authorized by the vehicle owner.

For auto dealerships to post listings, they will need to be authorized by vehicle owners via e-Devlet. The authorization verification process will continue until April 1, and from that date on, businesses without an authorization certificate will be completely blocked from posting vehicle listings.

The Ministry stated that through this new regulation, they aim to prevent fake listings, speculative price increases, and unregistered dealership activities. It was emphasized that the regulation covers all electronic listing platforms, including social media, and that listings will be monitored meticulously.