File a release of liability or notice of sale with your state’s DMV. Most states allow online submission through their DMV website. You’ll need the vehicle’s VIN, license plate number, sale date, and buyer information. This notification removes your legal responsibility for the vehicle.
Common ways to notify the DMV:
- Online through your state’s DMV website (fastest)
- Mail a completed release of liability form
- Visit a DMV office in person
- Through a DMV kiosk (available in some states)
Information typically required:
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- License plate number
- Odometer reading at time of sale
- Date of sale
- Buyer’s name and address (or business name)
- Your signature
Why notification matters:
- Removes liability for parking tickets after sale
- Protects you if the car is in an accident
- Prevents toll violations from reaching you
- Establishes clear date of ownership transfer
- Required by law in most states
Some states handle this automatically when the buyer processes the title. Others require you to file separately. Check your state’s specific requirements to be sure.
Don’t skip this step. Until the DMV knows you sold the car, you remain the registered owner in their system. Any problems with the vehicle come back to you. Filing takes 10 minutes and prevents headaches later.
Find out how long you have to notify the DMV to stay within your state’s deadline.
