When opting to buy or sell a vehicle via private sale in the state of New York, both the buyer and the seller will have to assume certain responsibilities that would otherwise be seen to by a dealership. But fret not: if you’re selling a vehicle in the Empire State, eTags can help make it easy!
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In this guide, we’ll show you how to transfer vehicle ownership in New York in just four simple steps. Ready? Lets go!
Step 1: Find a Buyer for Your Vehicle
Before you can transfer your vehicle title, you need to find a buyer who agrees to your price and terms. The most common way to do this is through an online car buying and selling platform. These sites often provide some degree of protection and traceability for both buyers and sellers, which can help prevent unwanted situations.
When listing your vehicle, remember to include all pertinent details, such as the current mileage and maintenance history in order to accurately portray the condition of your car. It’s also a good idea to state the forms of payment you’re willing to accept, such as wire transfer or a cashier’s check. This can help attract the kind of car buyer that is best suited to you.
Step 2: Write a Bill of Sale
When selling a vehicle in New York, a bill of sale is required. This document serves as proof of the transaction that a vehicle was exchanged between parties. A bill of sale should include the following information:
- Buyer and seller details
- Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN
- Sale price
- Date of sale
- Any terms and conditions of the sale
If you are giving the vehicle as a gift, you will still need to complete a bill of sale to transfer ownership, simply listing $0 as the purchase price. Remember to include a Statement of Transaction (sales tax form) with the bill of sale.
Step 3: Gather All Necessary Paperwork
When it’s time to meet your buyer, make sure to have the following documents ready to go:
Vehicle title – During the sale, you will sign over the vehicle title to the new buyer by completing the title transfer form on the back of the title. If you don’t have your vehicle title, or if it has been defaced, you will have to obtain a replacement (duplicate) title, which you can order directly at eTags.com.
Odometer and Damage Disclosure Statement (form MV-103) – This document lists the vehicle’s current mileage and verifies that the buyer is aware of any damage history.
Bill of sale – Don’t forget to bring the bill of sale that you drafted earlier.
Form DTF-803 (optional) – If you believe there’s a reason that your sale should be tax exempt, print out and complete form DTF-803.
Step 4: Remove Your Old License Plates
Once you’ve handed over all the completed documents and received payment for your vehicle, it’s time to remove your license plates and registration stickers. The buyer will receive new plates and tags when they register the vehicle in New York.
Taking off your plates and registration tags also protects you from being held liable for anything that might happen after the buyer takes possession of the vehicle. You can either dispose of these plates or use them to register a new vehicle in your name.
And there you have it: the step-by-step of how to sell a vehicle in the state of New York. Remember, for all your tag and title needs, you’ve come to the right place. eTags makes it easy, and as always we’re here to help!
