Selling a car in Indiana involves preparing the vehicle, determining its value, marketing it, completing a bill of sale, and officially transferring the title with the buyer at the BMV. The most critical step is handling the title transfer correctly to release you from future liability. You must accurately complete the assignment of title section on the back of your original title certificate, which serves as the official bill of sale.
Before listing the car, invest time in preparation. A thorough cleaning, inside and out, can significantly increase its appeal. Gather all maintenance records to demonstrate responsible ownership. To determine a competitive asking price, research your car's market value using online tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, considering its condition, mileage, and optional features.
| Key Step in Indiana Car Sale | Required Document/Information | Important Consideration |
|---|
| Vehicle Valuation | VIN, mileage, condition report | Price varies by platform (e.g., KBB, Edmunds, Carvana). |
| Title Transfer | Original Indiana Certificate of Title | Must be signed by seller(s) exactly as name appears on front. |
| Odometer Disclosure | Federal Odometer Statement (on title) | Mandatory for vehicles under 16,000 lbs and less than 10 years old. |
| Bill of Sale | Created by seller/buyer; not mandatory | Highly recommended as a receipt; includes sale price, date, and parties' info. |
| License Plate | Remove from vehicle post-sale | Plates stay with the seller; the buyer obtains new plates. |
| Release of Liability | BMV Form 3730 (Sold Vehicle Notice) | File online or by mail within 31 days to avoid parking/ticket liability. |
Once you have a serious buyer, arrange a safe, public place for the test drive. Be prepared to negotiate the final price. After agreeing on a price, accept a secure payment method like a cashier's check or an electronic funds transfer. Do not release the car until the payment has fully cleared. Finally, complete the title assignment with the buyer and file the Sold Vehicle Notice with the Indiana BMV to formally end your responsibility for the vehicle.
