How to Sell a Car in Arizona

Selling a car in Arizona involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth and legal transaction. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from preparing the necessary documents to completing the sale.

Preparing for the Sale

Gather the Necessary Documents

The key document needed to sell your car in Arizona is the Certificate of Title. Ensure you complete the following on the reverse side of the title:

• Buyer’s name and address.
• Buyer’s signature.
• Your signature (notarized).
• Odometer disclosure for cars less than 10 years old.
• Rebuilt from salvage disclosure if applicable​.

Additional Documents

• Sold Notice: Completing this notice releases you from liability for any incidents involving the car after the sale​.
• Bill of Sale: While not mandatory in Arizona, it helps the buyer with registration and insurance​.
• Vehicle History Report: Providing a vehicle history report enhances your credibility as a seller​.

Setting the Price

• Evaluate the car’s value based on its condition and market value. Compare similar vehicles to set a competitive price​.

Preparing the Vehicle

• Clean and make minor repairs to the car. A good presentation can significantly impact the buyer’s decision​.
• Take quality photos of the car for advertisements​.

The Selling Process

Meeting Potential Buyers

• Allow buyers to test-drive the car in a safe location and discuss the specifics of the vehicle​.
• Once a buyer is interested, agree on a payment method (check or cash) and proceed to finalize the sale​.

Finalizing the Sale

• Transfer the Title: Sign the back of the title, have your signature notarized, and hand it over to the buyer. If there’s a lien on the car, provide a lien release​.
• Remove the License Plate: In Arizona, license plates stay with you, not the vehicle. Please remove them and transfer them to another vehicle you own or apply for a plate refund​​​.
• Notify the MVD: Complete a sold notice on AZ MVD Now, sign off the back of the title, and inform MVD of the transfer​.
• If Lost Title: Obtain a duplicate title through the Arizona Motor Vehicles Division website if the original is lost or damaged​.

Post-Sale

• Encourage the buyer to visit an MVD office for registration. A temporary 3-day permit allows them to drive the car to complete this process​.

Conclusion

Selling a car privately in Arizona requires careful attention to legal requirements and paperwork. Following these steps can ensure a legal and efficient sale, protecting yourself and the buyer.

Understanding Special Cases

• Title Transfers with Multiple Owners: If multiple owners are on the title, all must sign and have it notarized​.
• Selling a Vehicle with a Title Loan: Inform potential buyers about the title loan and ensure it’s paid in full before transferring the title​.

About Selling Cars in Arizona

Arizona’s car sales rules are designed to protect sellers and buyers. Ensuring that all legal requirements and paperwork are correctly completed is crucial for a successful transaction. Following these guidelines will help avoid potential legal issues and make the process smoother for both parties.