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Paperwork When Selling a Car in New York
When it's time to part ways with your vehicle, you can have a dealer sell it, trade it in for another car (either to a dealer or a private party), or simply sell it to a private party.
If you sell it to a private individual, provide the following documents to the new owner:
- Proof of ownership. This is the title, signed over to the new owner, and the bill of sale, for cars built in 1973 and newer. If buying an older car that has no title, the transferable registration or proof of ownership from another state will suffice.
- odometer and damage disclosure statement (if not on the back of the title, use Form MV-103).
- The original document from the lienholder that proves the lien is satisfied, if applicable.
Take the license plates off the car and remove the registration sticker from the windshield so you're not held liable for any parking or traffic tickets the new owner gets.
The new owner is responsible for getting a new title, a new registration, and new plates at the DMV. You are responsible for surrendering your plates to the DMV or transferring them to another vehicle before your insurance lapses, otherwise the DMV may suspend your driver license.
How to Sell Without a Title
You cannot complete a transaction without a title if the car is from 1973 or newer. The seller is responsible for providing this document. Apply for a new title.
If you require more help, call the Title Services Bureau at (518) 486-4714.
How to Sell Without a Registration
If you are selling a car built before 1973 and have misplaced the transferable registration, you can apply for a duplicate.
Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability
Remove the vehicle's plates and registration sticker. You can destroy the registration sticker, but you must surrender the plates. If you opt to do this in person, you must visit your local DMV office and pay a $1 fee. Be sure you receive an FS-6T receipt.
Or, you can avoid the $1 fee by surrendering the plates by mail. Send to:
- Department of Motor Vehicles
- 2799 Route 112
- Medford, New York 11763
The DMV will mail you an FS-6T receipt.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is needed for cars built in 1973 and newer. You can easily download a copy of this document from our Bill of Sale page.
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