What is what to do when selling a car in florida?

Here's a guide to selling a car in Florida:

When selling a car in Florida, you'll need to follow specific legal procedures to ensure a smooth and legitimate transaction. Here's a breakdown:

  • Gather Necessary Documents: Before you list your car, collect all essential documents. This includes the car's title (or Certificate of Title), which proves you own the vehicle. Also, obtain a Bill of Sale (Form HSMV 82050). Bill%20of%20Sale is required for transactions.

  • Complete the Title Transfer: The title is the most critical document. You must properly transfer ownership to the buyer. Fill out the Assignment of Title section on the back of the title, including the buyer's name, address, the date of sale, and the odometer reading. Both you and the buyer must sign and print your names. It is illegal to tamper with the Odometer.

    • If the title is lost or damaged, you'll need to apply for a Duplicate%20Title. Contact your local Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office for instructions.
  • Provide a Bill of Sale: While not always legally mandatory, a bill of sale is highly recommended. This document provides a record of the sale and protects you from liability after the car is sold. The Bill of Sale must include the seller's name and address, the buyer's name and address, the vehicle's description (year, make, model, VIN), the sale price, and the date of sale. Both parties should sign it.

  • Notify the FLHSMV: After the sale, it's crucial to notify the FLHSMV that you've sold the vehicle. You can do this online or by mail. This step is essential to release you from any liability associated with the car after the sale date, such as parking tickets or accidents.

  • Remove Your License Plate: In Florida, license plates remain with the seller, not the vehicle. Remove your license plate and either transfer it to a new vehicle you own, or surrender it to the FLHSMV. Failure to do so could result in unwanted fees.

  • Release of Liability: File a notice of sale online with the Release%20of%20Liability portal on the FLHSMV website. This formally informs the state that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle.

  • Safety: Always meet potential buyers in a safe, public place for test drives and inspections. Be wary of scams and never release the vehicle or title without receiving full payment.

It's always a good idea to consult the Florida%20Department%20of%20Highway%20Safety%20and%20Motor%20Vehicles website (FLHSMV) for the most up-to-date information and requirements.