New York car sale paperwork

What documents establish the sale?

New York DMV separates proof of ownership from proof of sale. For a titled vehicle, complete the ownership assignment and a signed bill of sale; a bill of sale alone does not replace the title. DMV provides Form MV-912 for recording a vehicle sale.

What should the buyer and seller check?

Match the VIN on the car to its document. Confirm the purchasing party’s legal name before completing the assignment. Record the agreed amount and sale date, and complete the applicable disclosure sections accurately. Do not sign an ownership document with the buyer left blank.

What happens at handover?

Keep copies of the completed records and evidence of payment. Remove belongings and arrange your plate surrender or transfer separately. If the title is missing, shows a lender or names a deceased owner, resolve that document route before collection.

Official sources.

New York DMV: New York car sale paperwork

Sources reviewed September 19, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.

Continue with your New York sale.

Replace a missing New York car titleOrder the replacement through DMV and allow for mailing before scheduling a document-dependent pickup.New York plates and insurance after a saleArrange plate surrender before cancelling New York liability insurance.Sell a New York car with a lienResolve the lender’s interest and prepare its release before transferring ownership.Sell a jointly owned car in New YorkCheck the title’s ownership record before deciding who will sign the sale documents.Odometer disclosure when selling a New York carRecord mileage accurately and check the model-year exemption before completing the transfer.Check a New York junk-car buyer or dismantlerIdentify the purchasing business and check its relevant DMV registration before transferring your car.

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