You’re all set to sell your car, but one thing is standing in your way — the dreaded paperwork. Selling your car can be aggravating, but the documentation doesn't need to be part of the problem. If you're wondering “what paperwork do I need to sell my car?”, we'll provide the answer below. You'll also learn how to organize the required documents in a timely fashion so you can finalize the sale smoothly when the right buyer comes along.
While you need some paperwork before legally selling your car, some additional documents might help you sell your car faster, for a higher price and assure the buyer they’re getting a good deal.
Providing a car history to potential buyers can get you a lot more looks and possibly speed up a sale. The more buyers know, the better they might feel. Running a check on the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can provide a car history from the day it left the factory. You can obtain a vehicle history report from various online sites.
Car warranties come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from bumper-to-bumper coverage to limited big-ticket repairs. Depending on the term of the plan, a warranty could add considerable value to your car. So, if you don't know what contract you purchased with your vehicle, or if you bought any at all, it might be worth digging a little.
Most new car and extended warranties are transferable, but the processes can differ for each provider, so read through the fine print of your contract. If the vehicle is out of warranty, let the buyer know that the sale is “as is.”
Advertising that your vehicle received proper maintenance might attract buyers, but having proof could clinch the deal. Provide receipts or statements from dealerships or repair shops, or if you did the car's maintenance yourself, then provide receipts from purchases you made and written logs of dated repairs.
With all the information accessible via the internet, a written manual might seem archaic. But it sure can come in handy when you get stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and a dead cellphone, and you can't figure out how to release the car jack. An owner's manual is an excellent back-up to have in the glovebox and a nice document to hand over to the new car owner.
When preparing to sell your automobile, you should have all the required documents so you can legally transfer ownership. Here's a checklist of what paperwork may be required when selling a car privately.
The title might be the most crucial document needed when selling your car, as it represents the right of ownership. If you misplaced or lost your title, check with your state motor vehicle department to apply for a duplicate. Get your title by selecting which of the following circumstances apply to you:
Federal law requires the seller of an automobile to provide an odometer disclosure to the purchaser at the time of sale. Some states allow you to give the current mileage reading right on the car title, while others require a separate notarized form. Check with your state’s motor vehicle department to determine their requirements.
While many states don't require a bill of sale, providing one might be a good idea because it documents the transaction between seller and buyer, providing a comprehensive list of the terms and conditions of the sale in writing. Consider adding these items when creating a bill of sale:
What paperwork is required when selling a car privately? Every state has different guidelines for selling a vehicle, so check with your state’s motor vehicle department to confirm you meet all regulations. Here are some additional items your state might require:
Selling your car to a dealer or trading it in could eliminate many of the required documents when selling to a private party. Taking your vehicle to a local dealership for an appraisal could bring a surprising offer. It might be less money than you can get from an individual, but you might decide that eliminating the extra paperwork is worth it.
