Paperwork Needed to Sell or Buy a Car in Indiana
1. Vehicle Title
- The title should be in your name, free of any liens, or if there is a lien, ensure that the lien release is available.
- Sign over the title to the buyer by completing the seller’s section on the title, including your signature and the odometer reading.
- If your title is lost, you will need to apply for a duplicate title through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Indiana BMV Title Transfer Information
2. Bill of Sale
Although not legally required in Indiana, it’s strongly recommended to provide a Bill of Sale. This document should include:
- Full name and address of both seller and buyer.
- Vehicle information (Make, model, year, VIN).
- Sale price and date of sale.
- Signatures of both parties.
3. Odometer Disclosure Statement
Federal law requires an odometer reading for vehicles under 16,000 pounds and less than 10 years old. The odometer reading must be disclosed on the title or a separate Odometer Disclosure Statement.
Odometer Disclosure Statement
4. Release of Liability
- Verify that the buyer has provided valid identification and has signed the necessary documents.
- Remove the license plate from the vehicle.
- File a notice of sale with the Indiana BMV to notify them of the sale and protect yourself from any future liabilities.
5. Vehicle History Report
This form notifies the Indiana BMV that you no longer own the vehicle, ensuring you are not liable for future incidents involving the vehicle.
6. Emissions Certificate
If you’re selling the vehicle to a private buyer, the buyer will be responsible for paying sales tax when they title the vehicle. However, if you traded the vehicle at a dealership, you may need proof that sales tax was paid.
7. Emissions Test (for some counties)
- Indiana requires an emissions test for vehicles in certain counties, so be sure to verify if the vehicle will need to pass emissions before being sold.
Indiana Emissions Testing Information
8. Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- If the vehicle has any modifications or aftermarket parts, it might be helpful to have documentation related to these, such as receipts or certificates of work done.
