What is what to do when you sell a car in texas?

Selling a Car in Texas: A Checklist

When selling a vehicle in Texas, it's crucial to follow the proper procedures to avoid future liabilities. Here's a breakdown of the necessary steps:

1. Prepare the Vehicle:

   • Gather all relevant documents, including the vehicle title and maintenance records.

2. Complete the Title:

   • Properly endorse the vehicle title by filling out the assignment section on the back. This includes:
     • Seller Information: Your printed name, signature, and address.
     • Buyer Information: The buyer's printed name, address, and signature.
     • Odometer Disclosure: Accurately record the vehicle's mileage.
     • Sale Date: The date you sold the vehicle.
     • Sale Price: The amount the vehicle was sold for.

3. Vehicle Transfer Notification:

   • Important: Within 30 days of the sale, you must file a Vehicle%20Transfer%20Notification with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). This releases you from liability for the vehicle and its operation after the sale date. This can be done online through the TxDMV website.

4. Remove License Plates:

   • Remove the license plates from the vehicle. You can either keep them and transfer them to another vehicle you own, or surrender them to your local county tax-assessor collector's office.

5. Bill of Sale (Recommended):

   • Although not legally required in Texas, creating a Bill%20of%20Sale is highly recommended. This document serves as proof of the transaction and includes details like:
     • Seller and buyer information.
     • Vehicle description (VIN, year, make, model).
     • Sale price.
     • Sale date.
     • Signatures of both parties.

6. Provide the Buyer with Necessary Documents:

   • Give the buyer the endorsed title.
   • Provide them with the bill of sale (if you created one).
   • Hand over any other relevant documents, such as maintenance records or warranties.

7. Final Steps:

   • Retain a copy of the bill of sale (if applicable) and the transfer notification confirmation for your records.

Important Considerations:

• Lien Release: If there's a lien on the vehicle, you'll need to obtain a lien release from the lienholder and provide it to the buyer. The lien release should be submitted with the title when the buyer registers the vehicle.
• Out-of-State Buyers: If selling to someone from out of state, inform them of Texas's titling and registration requirements.
• Fraud: Be cautious of potential scams. Meet buyers in a safe location and accept only verified funds.
• Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and is not legal advice. Always refer to the official Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) website or consult with a legal professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.