Yes, you can legally sell a car to someone who does not have a driver's license in the United States. A license is required to legally operate a vehicle on public roads, but it is not a legal prerequisite for owning one. The transaction hinges on the transfer of the vehicle's title, not the buyer's driving credentials. However, the process involves important logistical and financial considerations to protect you, the seller, from future liability.
The core of the sale is the title transfer. When you sign over the title to the new owner, you are legally transferring ownership. It is absolutely critical that you accurately complete this document, including the sale price and odometer reading, and file a release of liability with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This step informs the state that you are no longer the owner, shielding you from parking tickets, toll violations, or worse, liability for accidents involving the car after the sale.
Payment is another key area. For your protection, it is advisable to conduct the transaction at the buyer's bank to obtain a cashier's check or certified funds. This verifies the money is legitimate and clears immediately, unlike a personal check which can bounce. Be wary of cash transactions for high-value vehicles due to security concerns.
The buyer's lack of a license complicates a test drive. You should never allow an unlicensed individual to drive the car. A potential solution is for the buyer to bring a licensed friend to perform the test drive. Furthermore, the buyer will need to arrange for the vehicle's transportation after the sale, typically via towing or having a licensed driver move it.
Ultimately, the sale is legal, but your priority must be completing the paperwork correctly to sever all ties with the vehicle.
