can you sell a car with no registration

[HaydenLee]

Yes, you can sell a car with no registration, but it's a complicated process that introduces significant risk and legal hurdles. The critical document is not the registration but the title, which proves you own the vehicle. The registration only shows the car is legally allowed to be driven on public roads for a specific period. Selling an unregistered car is common for project cars, parts vehicles, or when selling to a dealer who will handle the paperwork.

The primary challenge is that most buyers, especially private parties, will be hesitant. They cannot legally drive the car away without current registration and plates. Your options are to sell the car "as is," typically as a non-running project, or to a dealership that has procedures for such transactions. The laws governing this vary significantly by state. Some states have a process for selling a car with an expired registration, while others may require you to settle any back fees or penalties first.

Here’s a breakdown of common scenarios and their implications:

Scenario	Is it Possible?	Key Considerations & Potential Hurdles
Title in Hand, Registration Expired	Yes, but with complications.	You must have the title. The buyer will need to register it themselves, which may involve paying back fees. The sale price will likely be lower.
No Title, No Registration	Extremely difficult and risky.	Selling a car without a title is a major red flag. You must apply for a duplicate title from the DMV before any sale can proceed legally.
Selling to a Private Buyer	Possible, but limits buyer pool.	The buyer will need to tow the vehicle. A strong bill of sale detailing the car's "as-is" condition and VIN is crucial for protecting both parties.
Selling to a Dealership or Junkyard	Highly likely.	Dealerships and salvage yards are accustomed to handling cars without current registration. They have the resources to manage the DMV paperwork.

The safest approach is to be completely transparent with potential buyers. Explain the situation upfront and be prepared to provide a detailed bill of sale. It's also wise to contact your local DMV to understand any specific state requirements or outstanding obligations tied to the vehicle.

[StJasmine]

Technically, yes, but the registration isn't the main issue—it's the title. The title proves ownership. If you have the title, you can sell the car. The lack of registration just means the buyer can't drive it off your property legally; they'll need a tow truck. It makes the car less attractive to most people, so expect to sell it for a lower price, usually as a project or for parts. Always be honest about the situation to avoid legal trouble.

[McKennedy]

I've bought a couple of cars like this for restoration projects. From a buyer's perspective, it's all about the title. No title, no deal—it's that simple. The registration being expired or missing just tells me the car has been sitting, which I already expect. As a seller, your best bet is to market it honestly to folks like me who are looking for a fixer-upper. We know we're arranging for a tow, and we're focused on the mechanical condition and a clear title. It narrows your market, but there are buyers out there.