Selling a car privately in Michigan
Michigan wants the title transferred within 15 days of the sale, and the state's own recommendation is the seller's best protection: go to a Secretary of State office with the buyer and complete the transfer together. The buyer pays Michigan's 6% tax there. If you cannot go together, complete the seller's portion of the title (price, odometer, date, signatures) and keep meticulous records.
Michigan law shields sellers who keep proof of sale: hold onto a copy of the assigned title and your record of the sale for at least 18 months. Remove your plate before the buyer takes possession; Michigan plates belong to the seller and an unused plate should be destroyed or transferred, never left on the car.
The checklist
- 1
Complete the title transfer, ideally at an SOS office (Michigan)
Michigan recommends both parties visit a Secretary of State office. The buyer must transfer within 15 days; going together closes it same-day.
- 2
Keep proof of sale for 18 months
A copy of the assigned title plus a dated record of the sale is your statutory protection if the buyer delays their transfer.
- 3
Remove your plate before the buyer takes possession
Michigan plates belong to the seller. Transfer the plate or destroy it completely.
- 4
Verify your title status
Locate the physical title and confirm it is in your name with no undisclosed liens. If the title is lost, request a duplicate before listing.
- 5
Complete a bill of sale
Recommended for every private sale even where not required. Record buyer/seller names, VIN, price, date, and an as-is acknowledgement. Both parties keep a copy.
- 6
Complete the odometer disclosure
Federal rules require odometer disclosure for most vehicles under 20 model years old. Usually done on the title itself; some states use a separate form.
- 7
File a release of liability / notice of sale
If your state offers it, file promptly after the sale so you are not liable for tickets or incidents after the buyer drives away.
- 8
Handle plates per your state's rules
In most states the seller removes the plates; in some, plates stay with the vehicle. Confirm your state's rule before handing over the keys.
- 9
Pay off any lien before or at transfer
If a lien remains, coordinate payoff with the lender so the buyer can receive a clear title. Do not sign over a title with an unreleased lien.
- 10
Confirm payment before signing the title
Verify cash, or use a cashier's check verified with the issuing bank, or complete the transfer inside the buyer's bank. Never release the signed title before funds are confirmed.
- 11
Keep copies of everything
Photograph or copy the signed title (both sides), bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and the buyer's ID if they consent.
- 12
Check official state instructions
Requirements change. Confirm the current process on your state DMV / motor vehicle agency website before the sale.
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Start your free beta packetMichigan private sale FAQ
Does a Michigan car title need to be notarized?
No. Michigan requires a complete seller's section (price, odometer, date, signatures) but no notary. The recommended route is completing the transfer together at a Secretary of State office.
Why keep records for 18 months in Michigan?
Michigan law protects a seller who has proof of the sale if the buyer never transfers the title. Keep a copy of the assigned title and the dated record of sale for at least 18 months.
How long does the buyer have to transfer in Michigan?
15 days from the sale date, at a Secretary of State office, where they pay the 6% tax.
What do I do with my Michigan plate?
Remove it before the buyer takes possession. Transfer it to your next vehicle or destroy it so it cannot be misused; do not hand it over or leave it on the car.
Selling a special situation?
Other states
Bold states have a state-specific guide; others use the general checklist.
Last reviewed Jul 13, 2026. This is a general checklist, not legal advice. Confirm current requirements with your state DMV or tax office.