Is Vehicle Title Transfer Necessary When Selling a Car?
2 Answers
Selling a car requires a title transfer. Otherwise, the seller may be held liable in case of an accident. Title Transfer Requirements: To complete the vehicle title transfer process, all prior traffic violations must be resolved, the vehicle must pass inspection, and the physical presence of the vehicle is required. Both the buyer and seller must present their respective identification documents and vehicle paperwork (including the vehicle registration certificate and vehicle license) and jointly visit the local DMV where the vehicle is registered to complete the title transfer procedure. Relevant Laws: "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations": Article 13 states that when a vehicle owner's residence changes beyond the jurisdiction of the current DMV, the DMV shall, within three days of acceptance, annotate the changes on the vehicle registration certificate, reclaim the license plates and vehicle license, issue a temporary license plate valid for 30 days, and hand over the vehicle's file to the owner. The vehicle owner must apply for vehicle registration transfer at the new residence's DMV within the validity period of the temporary license plate.
Last year when I sold my car, I almost got into trouble with the transfer process. Thinking it was between acquaintances, I didn’t rush to complete the paperwork. Two weeks later, I received a speeding ticket, and upon checking the surveillance, the car was still registered under my name. I had to make three trips to the DMV just to settle the violation. My advice is to go through the transfer procedure directly with the buyer. Bring the vehicle registration certificate, the driving license, both parties’ ID cards, and fill out a 'Motor Vehicle Transfer Agreement' to get it done. If you find it troublesome, at least sign a notarized agreement stating that 'all responsibilities are transferred to the buyer from the handover day.' But remember, if an accident happens, the police will first contact the registered owner—a painful lesson learned, my friends!