Buying a Car Paperwork

It's relatively painless to complete the paperwork when buying a car in a private (nondealer) transaction. Buyers must get the following from the seller:

• Proof of ownership. For cars built from 1973 on, this means a title signed over to you and a bill of sale. For cars older than 1973, the transferable NY registration or the proof of ownership from another state will do.

• Odometer and damage disclosure statement (if not on the back of the title, use Form MV-103), if applicable. Motor vehicles older than 10 model years do not require an odometer disclosure statement. And vehicles older than eight model years do not require damage disclosure.

• Proof of purchase price or gift.

• The original document from the lienholder that proves the lien is satisfied, if the title indicates there is a lien on the vehicle. The DMV will remove the lien when it issues you a new title.

Examine the title carefully for information about unsatisfied liens. You don't need to worry about paying sales tax at this point―you'll pay that when you register and title the car at the DMV.

When you purchase a car through a dealer, they will assist you in completing the paperwork.

How to Buy Without a Title

You cannot complete a transaction without a title. The seller is responsible for providing this document. If the title is missing, the seller must apply for a duplicate.

If the previous owner hasn't provided you with the proper documents, send the previous owner a certified letter asking him to do so.

If the owner still won't respond, then take the following to a DMV office:

• The unopened returned certified letter.

• A photo, pencil tracing, or police statement with the vehicle identification number.

• A notarized affidavit describing what happened (how the owner would not respond, how you bought the car.

• Any other proof of ownership, like canceled payment checks to the previous owner.

• A completed form MV-51B (Statement of Ownership).

If you require more help, call the Title Services Bureau at (518) 486-4714.

Bill of Sale

A bill of sale is mandatory for registering and titling your vehicle. For convenience sake, you can easily download a blank copy of this document from our Bill of Sale page.

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