How do I sell and buy a car?
What papers do I need to make when I sell my car and what papers should I have when I buy a used car? How do I transfer the name to the purchaser of the car I am selling it to at the DMV (what papers is needed)? How many days from the day I purchase the used car I have to register it at the DMV and what happens if I don't register it in time? Thanks in advance for the help (^_^)
The rules are different in each state and country. Where are you? You need to look at your local DMV website.
In California to sell a car:
1.Seller needs to smog the car. The smog certificate is good for 90 days
2.You need cars title. You need to sign the front of the title. That releases your interest in car.
3.Give title to buyer.
4.Sign Release of Liabiltity and turn in to DMV or AAA Auto Club with in 5 days of sale.
5. Inform your insurance company.
In California to buy a car:
1. Take signed title to DMV or AAA (I assume there's no lien on title)
2. transfer title into your name by signing back of title.
3. $15 for transfer
4. 6-8% Use Tax on purchase price (depends on area)
5. pay registration fees if they are due.
6. Are any plates missing or damaged? now's a good time to replace them if needed
7. You will leave with a new registration in your name that you keep in the glove compartment.
8.Your title will be mailed to you in 6-8 weeks. Keep title somewhere safe like sock drawer or safety deposit box.
Things that could go wrong:
The title shows a lien, so you need to get the lender to sign a lien release.
The car hasn't been registered in a few years, so now you need to pay back fees and penalties.
Have a mechanic check it out so nothing goes wrong with car.
Owner signs in wrong place, so you need to find him and have him sign in right place....exchange name and address & phone number just in case, at time of sale.
Title is lost...apply for duplicate and get bill of sale from seller.
Seller forgot to write down odometer disclosure on front.
You register it later than the ten days allowed....pay a small penalty.
Don't take personal checks. Take a cashiers check or cash.
