Is it permissible to sell a car that is not yet owned, but the seller possesses its registration (istimara) while it is in another person's name?

It is not permissible for the buyer to sell the car before taking possession of it in a recognized manner, such that he or his agent inspects it. Merely taking the registration document is not sufficient. This is the preponderant opinion due to the generality of the evidence, which includes food and other items, such as the Prophet's (peace be upon him) prohibition of selling what one does not possess, and his prohibition of selling goods where they are bought until the merchants take possession of them and move them to their own places. Taking possession and acquiring the sold item negates gharar (uncertainty) and jahalah (ignorance) and brings reassurance.