When selling your car in New Jersey, you must sign the title in the assignment of ownership section on the back. This is the most critical step to legally transfer the vehicle. The seller's signature must be notarized for the transaction to be valid. You'll find the specific area labeled "Assignment of Title by Registered Owner" where you, as the seller, print your name, write the sale price and odometer reading, and sign exactly as your name appears on the front of the title. The buyer then completes their section.
Before you meet the buyer, fill out your portions to avoid errors. You need to provide the title, the vehicle's registration, and a notarized Bill of Sale. The Bill of Sale serves as a receipt and protects both parties. After the sale, you must report it to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to release your liability. This can be done online or by submitting the "Certificate of Sale" section of the registration.
The table below outlines the key documents and requirements for a private car sale in New Jersey.
| Document/Requirement | Description | Key Details |
|---|
| Certificate of Title | The primary legal document proving ownership. | Sign and print name in the "Assignment of Title by Registered Owner" section on the back. |
| Notarization | Mandatory for the seller's signature on the title. | A notary public must witness your signature. The buyer's signature does not need to be notarized. |
| Bill of Sale | A receipt documenting the transaction details. | Should include vehicle info (VIN, make, model), sale price, date, and signatures of both parties. Recommended to be notarized. |
| Odometer Disclosure | Federal requirement stating the mileage at the time of sale. | This is included within the assignment section on the back of the New Jersey title. |
| Seller's Liability Release | Crucial step to avoid future tickets or fines for the car. | Submit the "Certificate of Sale" from the registration or notify the MVC online via their vehicle sales portal. |
After the sale, keep your copy of the Bill of Sale and the confirmation of your liability release. The buyer is responsible for titling, registering, and insuring the vehicle in their name.
