Paperwork When Buying a Car in Illinois

Buyer Responsibilities

Buyers must:

1. Register the car immediately at a Secretary of State office that provides vehicle services.
2. Title the car in their name within 20 days of purchase.

If you buy through a dealer, they will process the required paperwork for a fee.

Buying Without a Title

It just can't be done. The seller is required to provide the title to you when you purchase the vehicle. If the seller doesn't have the title, they must apply for a duplicate title. The seller must:

• Fill out an Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) VSD-190―available at your local Secretary of State office.

• Check the box for duplicate title.

• Write in the vehicle identification number (VIN), the proper odometer reading, and your signature.

Submit to:

• Office of the Secretary of State

• Vehicle Records Processing Division

• 501 South 2nd St., Room 424

• Springfield, IL 62756-6666

Note: Out-of-state residents cannot request a duplicate title unless they have a previous Illinois title. If you are attempting to purchase a vehicle without a title from someone in Illinois, the previous owner must apply for the duplicate title before the sale.

Buying Without Registration

You'll need to go through the usual steps for registering your car. Visit the Secretary of State office to pick up the proper title and registration applications. Call (800) 252-8980 to get help completing your application.

Bill of Sale

In certain situations, you will need a Bill of Sale to register your vehicle. If you can't track a copy down, you can easily download this form from our Bill of Sale page.

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