Paperwork When Selling a Car (National Guide)
Learn exactly what documents you need to legally sell a vehicle in any state, how to complete them correctly, and typical fees and timelines. Use the state selector to see your state’s specific title forms, odometer rules, and reporting deadlines.
Before You Hand Over the Keys:
- Locate the title (certificate of ownership) and verify all owner names and any lien release.
- Complete a bill of sale with sale price, date, odometer reading, and buyer/seller info.
- Record the odometer disclosure (required in every state for vehicles under 20 model years; some states require for all ages).
- Remove license plates if your state requires it, cancel insurance, and file the state’s required sale/transfer notice within the deadline (typically 5–30 days).
Eligibility
- You are the legal owner(s) listed on the title or have a legal power of attorney to sign on behalf of the owner.
- No active lien is recorded on the title, or you have an original/electronic lien release from the lender.
- The title is present and legible; if not, you have a duplicate title issued before the sale.
- Odometer disclosure can be completed (vehicle under 20 model years requires disclosure under federal rules).
Documents
- Certificate of Title
- Bill of Sale
- Odometer Disclosure Statement
- Lien Release
- Government-issued ID
- Smog/emissions or Safety Inspection Certificate
Typical Seller Fees & Costs
- Fee — $0 Bill of sale and title assignment (seller side)
- Fee — $5–$20 Notary fee (if your state requires notarized title/bill of sale)
- Fee — $15–$30 depending on state Duplicate title (if original is lost)
- Fee — $20–$70 Emissions/safety inspection certificate (if required for sale)
- Fee — $0–$10 Plate surrender fee (in some states)
FAQ
What paperwork do I need to sell my car?
At minimum, you need the vehicle title signed over to the buyer, a bill of sale with price and date, an odometer disclosure for vehicles under 20 model years, and a lien release if applicable. Many states also require you to file a seller’s notice of sale within 5–30 days.
Do I need a notary to sell my car?
About a dozen states require notarized signatures on the title and/or bill of sale (e.g., AZ for older titles, KY, LA, MS, MO, MT, NC for certain cases, OH, OK, PA, WV, WY). Notary fees typically range $5–$20. Check your state’s specific rule using the selector.
Who keeps the license plates?
Rules vary. In many states, the seller removes and retains or surrenders the plates. In some states, plates stay with the vehicle. Always remove your toll tag and file the sale notice to prevent liability for tickets after the sale.
What if there is a lien on the title?
You must obtain a lien release from the lender before you can transfer ownership. Some states accept electronic lien releases; others require an original paper release. Without a proper release, the buyer cannot retitle the vehicle.
Is an odometer disclosure always required?
Federal law requires odometer disclosure for vehicles under 20 model years. Some states extend disclosure to all vehicles. Record the mileage accurately at the time of sale to avoid civil penalties.
When should I cancel insurance?
Cancel or transfer coverage after the buyer has taken possession and you have completed and filed your state’s sale/transfer notice. Canceling too early can create liability gaps if a test drive incident occurs before delivery.
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