Every Piece of Paperwork You Need to Sell Your Car Privately

Most states require a seller to provide a clear title to a vehicle before selling it to another person. You may also need proof of insurance, proof of ownership, proof of the vehicle’s condition, and a bill of sale. 

A buyer needs to show proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of ability to pay for the vehicle. The seller must provide warranty documentation if the car is still under warranty. 

It can help a buyer if the seller gives them maintenance records for a vehicle, such as a repair history or receipts for significant repairs, and if the seller provides a current inspection report.

Warranty Documents

If you’re selling a car, you may want to consider offering a warranty. If you have a transferable warranty, it will help you sell the vehicle at a higher price. 

You should also keep a copy of the warranty handy for the potential buyer to view.

Bill of Sale

A bill-of-sale is a contract that details the sale of a car. It includes all the information about the vehicle, including the year, make, model, mileage, and other essential details.

It also includes the price, delivery date and signature of both parties. A bill of sale is usually notarized in some states, which will help protect you from any claims against you after the sale.

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle history reports give you information about a vehicle’s past. You’ll probably want to include this in your ad if you’re selling your car online.

The report includes details like odometer readings, accident records, and other important information. 

As-Is Document

You should always have an itemized list of everything included in the sale. This consists of the price, the mileage, and other details about the car.

You should also have a copy of the signed contract that states that the buyer accepts all responsibility for the vehicle. If there are any problems after the sale, the buyer must pay for any repairs.

Odometer Reading

If you sell a car, you must give the buyer a written disclosure of the odometer reading. 

You are allowed to add the odometer reading to your title if you choose in some states, but others require you to fill out an independent form. 

If you buy a car, you must sign an odometer statement before taking possession of the vehicle.

Vehicle Title

If your vehicle is financed, you may not have the title. 

If you’re buying a car, you’ll need to pay off the loan before the seller can transfer ownership. You’ll also need to work out the details with the seller to ensure the payoff goes through. 

Maintenance Records

If you’re selling your car, you must show that you’ve taken care of it. You can do this by showing pictures of your vehicle before and after you worked on it. 

If you had it repaired, you should have records of the repairs. Consider getting a car valuation in Dubai to determine your car’s market value.

Final Preparations

The final step of selling your car is preparing yourself for the logistics of the transaction. 

You’ll need to determine which payment option to accept, you have to be ready for any difficulties or complications, and you must limit your liability.

These logistics might include:

• Cancelling the insurance on your car.
• Showing the buyer any maintenance or parts records for the vehicle.
• Transferring all keys and paperwork to the new owner.
• Getting a liability release from your insurance company before going to the DMV.
• Removing all personal items from your vehicle, including the driver’s license or registration and clear out other areas in the car.
• Performing a smog test if your state requires it.
• Removing your car’s license plate if your state requires you to do so.