Used Car Title Transfer Requirements

Transferring titles is the first step to getting used cars registered and titled in the name of a new owner. On the back of the title, or pink slip, you must write:

• Your name and address.
• The date of purchase or when it was delivered.
• The odometer (mileage) if the car is 10 years old or newer.
• Damage disclosure (from the previous owner).

In North Carolina, the DMV requires that both you and the seller must sign the car title in the presence of a notary. 

The state does not require a bill of sale for private sales; the notarization serves as adequate proof of purchase. Cars purchased from dealers should get a bill of sale to take in for car registration.

Once you have the title signed over to you, you’ll have to report in to a NC DMV office to title and register the car. Use taxes of 3% of the car’s value will apply, along with other registration and titling fees.

Don't Forget the Vehicle History Report

Before you get to the step of signing the title and giving the seller money, you should consider getting a Vehicle History Report (VHR).  These in-depth reports are like medical records for used cars and essential during the buy car process.

These reports, culled from police reports, insurance companies, and auto body shops, tell you:

• If the car was ever a salvage title.
• If the car was reported flooded.
• About any major accidents.
• About any major bodywork and repairs.

If you’re going to be looking at more than one used car, then opt for the one-fee VHR that allows you to access the vehicle history of every car you want within a certain period of time.