Selling a Vehicle

If you are selling your vehicle to another person (not a dealer), there are steps you must follow to protect yourself and complete the sale correctly. This page explains what private sellers need to do before, during, and after selling a vehicle in Maryland.

Before selling a vehicle

Step 1: Make sure you have a valid title

You must have a valid Maryland Certificate of Title in your name before you can sell the vehicle. The title proves you're the legal owner.

• If your title is lost or damaged, request a duplicate title before selling.
• If there is a lien (loan) on the vehicle, it must be released before the sale.

Step 2: Confirm the title is correct

Check that the following information on your title is correct:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Owner name(s)
• Address

If any information is wrong, correct the title before selling the vehicle.

During the sale

Step 1: Fill out the title correctly

Add the following to the back of the title:

• Buyer’s name and address
• Sale price
• Odometer reading (required by federal law)
• The owner's signature (If multiple owners are listed on the title, all owners must sign the title unless the title shows “OR.”)
• The date of the sale

Step 2: Consider providing a bill of sale

A bill of sale helps protect both the buyer and seller. It should include:

• Vehicle information
• Sale price
• Date of sale
• Names and signatures of buyer and seller

Some buyers may need this document to title the vehicle.

Step 3: Remove your license plates

License plates stay with the seller, not the vehicle.

• Remove the plates before the buyer takes possession of the vehicle.
• Do not let the buyer use your plates.

After selling a vehicle

Seller's responsibilities 

As the seller, you should:

• Return your license plates to the MVA. Returning the plates stops insurance and registration requirements and helps you avoid fees. Keep your plate return receipt.
• Keep proof of the sale. This includes copies of the completed title (front and back) and the bill of sale

These records protect you if questions come up later.

Buyer's responsibilities

After the sale, the buyer must:

• Title the vehicle in their name
• Register the vehicle
• Complete any required safety and emissions inspections
• Obtain insurance

As the seller, you are not responsible for these steps once the sale is complete.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving sections of the title blank
• Forgetting to remove license plates
• Not keeping copies of documents
• Selling a vehicle with an open lien

Avoiding these issues can prevent delays or legal problems.

Questions? We can help.

Contact us if you have questions or need more information.

Contact MVA