How To Sell A Car Privately: General Guidelines (2026)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
- How to Determine the Right Asking Price for Your Car
- How to Prepare Your Vehicle for a Private Sale
- What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell a Car Privately?
- Where to List and Advertise Your Car for Sale
- How to Handle Test Drives and Meet Buyers Safely
- Safest Payment Methods When Selling a Car Privately
- How to Handle Insurance After Selling Your Car
- Explore ConsumerShield’s Resources for Vehicle Sellers
Summary
- Every state has rules for how to sell a car privately
- The process and requirements vary widely by state
- Meeting your state’s requirements will reduce the risk of a buyer lawsuit
Many people will sell a car during their lives. However, the process for how to sell a car privately depends on the seller’s state. Specifically, the paperwork required to transfer ownership and document the sale may differ widely.
How to Determine the Right Asking Price for Your Car
The value of a vehicle depends on many factors, including its model, its age and its condition. You can find online guides to determine a value range based on these factors. Picking a price at or below the low end of the range will result in a quicker sale.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for a Private Sale
Buyers are more likely to purchase a car if it is clean and ready to transfer when they take a test drive. Also, most states require you to remove the license plates when you sell the car.
In California, you are also required to provide the buyer a smog certificate that is no more than 90 days old. Obtain a smog test or identify any testing exemptions that may apply to your vehicle.
What Paperwork Do You Need to Sell a Car Privately?
Most states require you to provide a signed title to the buyer. Vermont is a notable exception since the state does not require titles for old vehicles. Some states also require a vehicle bill of sale, particularly if you are not the owner listed on the title.
Can you register a car without a title? If you lost your title, many states allow you to sell the vehicle by signing an application for a replacement title for the buyer.
Where to List and Advertise Your Car for Sale
Every state has newspapers and news websites with classified ads. You can also use social media sites to list used vehicles for sale.
How to Handle Test Drives and Meet Buyers Safely
Test drives can be risky. Consider meeting the buyer at a public location. Be particularly wary of any buyer who is dropped off because they might steal your vehicle.
Safest Payment Methods When Selling a Car Privately
Electronic payments are common. However, beware that these are sometimes susceptible to fraud. Cash or a certified check is often the safest route.
How to Handle Insurance After Selling Your Car
Notify your insurance carrier immediately after selling your car. This will reduce your risk of claims if the new owner causes any accidents.
Explore ConsumerShield’s Resources for Vehicle Sellers
ConsumerShield helps people facing legal issues, including the process for how to sell a car privately. Access our tools and resources for legal assistance and education.
Bill Of Sale Knowledge Base
Read the latest information on Bill Of Sale and find answers to your questions. Currently there are 6 topics about Bill Of Sale .
How To Transfer Title
How To Write For Car
How To Sell Car Privately
Frequently Asked Questions
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The greatest risk is that the buyer will rescind the sale if they cannot transfer ownership and register the vehicle. If this happens, you will likely need to refund the payment or face a lawsuit.
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“As-is” means that you do not warrant the fitness of the vehicle. Even when you sell a vehicle as is, you must not lie to the buyer.
