Do you need a power of attorney to drive someone else's car?
Since 2012 — no. The driver only needs a driving licence, the vehicle registration certificate (STS) and an OSAGO compulsory motor insurance policy that names them (or an unrestricted policy). But a power of attorney is needed if the representative will deal with the State Traffic Inspectorate (Gosavtoinspektsiya, formerly GIBDD), take the car in for repair, get it through its technical inspection or deal with the insurer.
Simple or notarised
- A simple written power of attorney is enough for driving, repairs, technical inspection and most dealings with the traffic police.
- A notarised one is usually needed to sell the car, travel abroad and with some insurance companies. A power of attorney for transactions that require notarial form must also be notarised (Art. 185.1 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, GK RF).
Validity period
If no period is stated, the power of attorney is valid for one year from the date of issue (Art. 186 GK RF). A power of attorney without a date of issue is invalid. The principal can revoke it at any time.
Filled-in example
This is how the finished document looks with sample data. All names and details are fictitious.