- Selling a vehicle is a legal process that involves paperwork to be completed. Different states have different paperwork requirements depending on their laws. Some of the forms that are needed to sell a vehicle are the same from state to state. It is important to check with the local Department of Motor Vehicles to receive the proper forms and information before selling a vehicle.
- This is a document that serves as the legal proof of ownership for a vehicle, and it should be transferred to the individual who is purchasing the vehicle. If there are any lien holders on the vehicle at this time, then they should be removed before or during the transfer process.
- The bill of sale is a document that states the terms of the vehicle sale. The bill of sale should include the year of the vehicle, make and model, buyer's full name, seller's full name and signatures from all involved parties. This document should also include the Vehicle Identification Number, the price of the purchase and the current odometer reading. This form has to be completed in full for the rights to the vehicle to be legally transferred.
- Some states will require that the vehicle undergo both smog and emissions testing for certification. Vehicles have to meet certain conditions based on their year, make and model in order to be deemed safe for use on the road. Not every state has these requirements.
- This is another document that is required in some but not all states. The Notice of Vehicle Sold offers protection to both parties until the point where the transfer of ownership has been completed. Similar to the bill of sale, this document includes drivers' license information, vehicle information and seller information.
- Purchasing a Vehicle History Report can help to demonstrate a record of repairs and maintenance on the vehicle. Providing this document is going to make it possible to negotiate a better or fairer price for the vehicle being sold.