Yes, you can technically transfer a car title that has unpaid parking or traffic tickets, but the process is almost always blocked until those tickets are settled. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in most states will flag the vehicle's record, preventing the title transfer from being completed. The new owner cannot register the car in their name until the previous owner's financial obligations are cleared.
The core issue is that the tickets are attached to the vehicle's record, not just the owner. This is a consumer protection measure to prevent people from dodging financial responsibility by selling a car with a pile of unpaid violations. From a buyer's perspective, this is critical: purchasing a car with outstanding tickets means you inherit a significant, immediate financial burden. You'll be unable to legally drive the car until you pay the previous owner's debts.
Key Considerations Before a Sale/Purchase:
- Seller's Responsibility: As the seller, you are responsible for all tickets incurred during your ownership. The cleanest and most ethical approach is to pay all fines before listing the car for sale. This makes the transaction smooth and builds trust with the buyer.
- Buyer's Due Diligence: A buyer should always perform a title check before purchasing a used vehicle. Many online services can reveal if there are any liens (loans) or outstanding fines against the vehicle. Never take the seller's word for it.
- Potential Scenarios: In some rare cases, a buyer might agree to pay the tickets as part of the negotiation, effectively reducing the car's sale price. However, this requires extreme caution. The buyer must get confirmation from the local DMV or court on the exact total owed and ensure the payment directly clears the vehicle's record before completing the sale.
| Factor | Seller's Perspective | Buyer's Perspective |
|---|
| Financial Liability | Responsible for all tickets accrued before the sale date. | Liable for all tickets attached to the vehicle after purchase, blocking registration. |
| DMV Procedure | Title transfer will be denied or suspended until fines are paid. | Unable to complete registration and get new license plates. |
| Recommended Action | Pay all fines and obtain a clear title before the sale. | Conduct a pre-purchase title search to uncover any hidden debts. |
| Risk | Possible legal action for evading fines; sale falling through. | Inheriting a large, unexpected debt; purchasing an undriveable car. |
Ultimately, resolving the tickets before the title transfer is the only reliable path. It avoids legal complications, protects the buyer, and ensures a seamless change of ownership.
