Paperwork Needed to Sell or Buy a Car in Florida
1. Vehicle Title
The most critical document you need to sell your car is the vehicle title. Ensure the title is clear of any liens, and the information is accurate.
Action Required: Sign the title over to the buyer, including odometer reading and sale date.
Florida DHSMV - Title Transfers
2. Bill of Sale
While not mandatory, a bill of sale is highly recommended as it provides a written record of the transaction, including the sale price and date.
Action Required: Complete a bill of sale form with the buyer’s and seller’s information, vehicle details, and sale price.
3. Odometer Disclosure Statement
If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, an odometer disclosure statement is required by law.
Action Required: Fill out the odometer reading on the title or a separate odometer disclosure form.
Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form HSMV 82993)
4. Notice of Sale
You must notify the Florida DHSMV that you have sold the vehicle. This helps protect you from liability for the vehicle after the sale.
Action Required: Submit a Notice of Sale form to the DHSMV within 30 days of the sale.
Notice of Sale Form (Form HSMV 82050)
5. Lien Satisfaction (if applicable)
If there was a lien on the vehicle, you need a lien satisfaction document to show that the lien has been paid off.
Action Required: Obtain a lien satisfaction letter from the lienholder and provide it to the buyer.
Florida DHSMV - Liens and Titles
6. Maintenance and Repair Records
Providing maintenance and repair records is optional but can be beneficial as it shows the buyer that the vehicle has been well-maintained.
Action Required: Gather and organize any service records, receipts, and repair history for the vehicle.
7. Owner’s Manual and Spare Keys
Include the owner’s manual and any spare keys with the sale of the vehicle.
Action Required: Collect the owner’s manual and all spare keys to hand over to the buyer.
Additional Steps for Selling a Car in Florida
1. Remove the License Plate:
You must remove your license plate before handing the car over to the buyer. You can either transfer the plate to another vehicle or return it to the DHSMV.
Florida DHSMV - License Plates
2. Cancel Insurance:
Once the sale is complete, cancel your insurance for the sold vehicle.
Resource: Contact your insurance provider directly.
