Buying and Selling FAQs in Utah
What is a bill of sale?
It's a written document that helps provide proof of transfer of ownership of personal property, such as a car. It contains important information, including the purchase price of the vehicle, the sale date, a description of the vehicle, and the names of the buyer and seller.
Where can I get a blank bill of sale?
Glad you asked. We provide a generic bill of sale, and the state has its own Bill of Sale (Form TC-843).
I'm selling my vehicle. Do the plates stay with me or the vehicle?
The plates stay with you, so remove them from the vehicle.
I'm selling my vehicle. Do I need to worry about the sales tax?
Absolutely not. The tax is collected from the buyer at a Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
I'm buying a vehicle from a private seller. How long does the seller have to hand over the title?
Legally, 48 hours. But from a practical sense, the title should be given to you at the time of the sale. You might be setting yourself up for a headache if you don't obtain the title at that point.
I just sold my vehicle to a private buyer. Should I let the DMV know this?
Yes. You should write a note which includes the vehicle model, year, and plate or vehicle identification number. Be sure to sign the note. Then, send it to:
- Division of Motor Vehicles
- MVCC Correspondence
- P.O. Box 30412
- Salt Lake City, UT 84130
You may also fax it to (801) 297-3570.
How much does it cost to register and get plates for my new vehicle?
That's a good question, but there isn't a simple answer. These fees vary depending on your type of vehicle, where you live, and other factors.
I just bought a car from a private seller. How do I get a temporary permit?
Just go to a DMV with your title, proof of insurance, and photo identification. The permit is valid during the time it takes to title and register your vehicle, and costs $6.
I'm having all sorts of problems with my new car. Where I can find out more about Utah's Lemon Law?
We cover this subject in our Lemon Law section.
I have a complaint about a dealer. What should I do?
If you can't resolve the issue with the dealer, you may contact the Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division at (801) 297-2600.
If you prefer putting the complaint in writing, send the letter to:
- Motor Vehicle Enforcement Division
- Utah State Tax Commission
- 210 N. 1950 W
- Salt Lake City, UT 84134
The division also handles cases of motor vehicle fraud.
Where can I find more information about registering and titling cars?
An excellent place to start is by looking at our registration and titling sections.