Paperwork & Title Guide
Buying a used car anywhere in the United States: the paperwork steps that work the same in every state, a copyable bill of sale — and a directory to your own state's exact fees, taxes and deadlines.
The universal steps — the same in every state
Fees, forms and deadlines change at the state line, but these nine steps protect you anywhere in the country.
- Get the title — in the seller's name
The title should be in the name of the person selling you the car, signed in the seller section exactly as the name is printed. If a lien is listed on the title, the seller should also hand you a lien release letter from the lender.
- Match the VIN on everything
Compare the 17-character VIN on the title, the bill of sale, the dashboard plate (visible through the windshield) and the driver's door jamb sticker. All four should be identical — any mismatch needs to be resolved before money changes hands.
- Get the odometer disclosure in writing
Federal law requires the seller to provide a written odometer disclosure statement for vehicles up to 20 model years old. The number on the statement should match the dashboard reading and the car's service history.
- Sign a bill of sale
Both parties' names and addresses, the VIN, the odometer reading, the price, the date, and two signatures. There's a copyable template below — and many states publish their own official form, which works too.
- Insure the car before you drive it
Add the vehicle to your insurance policy before driving it home. Every state requires insurance to register a car, and most require it simply to drive one.
- Ask about a temporary or transit tag
Rules differ by state: some issue temporary or transit tags so you can drive legally before registration, and in most states the license plates belong to the seller, not the car. Your state directory entry below is the place to confirm what applies to you.
- Transfer the title and register in your state
The transfer happens where you live and register the car — not where you bought it. Most states allow roughly 10 to 30 days after purchase, and late penalties are common, so don't let the signed title sit in a drawer.
- Pay the sales tax where you register
Sales (or use) tax is paid to the state where the car is registered, usually calculated on the purchase price or the car's fair market value. Keep your bill of sale — it's your proof of what you paid.
- Keep your documents together
Registration card and proof of insurance stay in the car. File the title, bill of sale and every receipt somewhere safe — that folder becomes the car's service history for the next owner, too.
Your state's exact rules
Specifics vary by state — fees, tax rates, transfer deadlines and required forms are set by your state agency. Pick your state to find who handles titles and registration where you live.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees, tax rates and deadlines change — always confirm the current requirements with your state agency before you go.
What to bring to the title office
The exact list varies by state, but these are the items almost every agency asks for.
- The signed title — completed by the seller, with no blank spaces in the buyer section.
- Bill of sale — signed by both parties, with the price and VIN.
- Odometer disclosure statement — signed by the seller.
- Your driver's license or state ID.
- Proof of insurance for the vehicle.
- Payment for tax and fees — many offices limit card payments, so check ahead.
- Inspection certificates — if your state requires a safety or emissions inspection before registration.
Bill of sale template
Copy it, fill in the blanks with the seller, and sign together. If your state publishes its own official bill-of-sale form, that form is equally good — what matters is that the information below is complete.