Selling a car privately in Vermont
Vermont only titles newer vehicles (roughly the most recent 15 model years), so which documents you hand over depends on the car's age. Newer vehicle: the signed-over Vermont title plus a bill of sale. Older, title-exempt vehicle: your Vermont registration certificate plus a bill of sale; and if the buyer plans to register in another state, consider obtaining an optional Vermont title first, since most states want one. No notary is required.
Vermont's combined Bill of Sale and Odometer Disclosure form (VT-005) covers both requirements in one document; the odometer disclosure is required for 2011 and newer models. The buyer pays Vermont's 6% purchase and use tax at registration. Plates belong to the seller; remove them and transfer them to your next vehicle or let them lapse.
The checklist
- 1
Match the documents to the vehicle's age (Vermont)
Newer vehicles: signed-over title plus bill of sale. Title-exempt older vehicles: registration certificate plus bill of sale, with an optional title if the buyer registers out of state.
- 2
Complete form VT-005 with the buyer
Vermont's combined bill of sale and odometer disclosure; the odometer section is required for 2011 and newer models.
- 3
Remove your license plates
Vermont plates belong to the seller. Take them off at handoff.
- 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.
Generate your Vermont sale packet
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Start your free beta packetVermont private sale FAQ
Does a Vermont car title need to be notarized?
No. Sign the title over (for vehicles new enough to have one) and complete the VT-005 bill of sale and odometer form with the buyer.
What if my Vermont vehicle is title-exempt?
Older vehicles beyond Vermont's roughly 15-model-year title window sell on the registration certificate plus a bill of sale. If the buyer will register out of state, an optional Vermont title first can save them real trouble.
What does the buyer pay in a Vermont private sale?
Vermont's 6% purchase and use tax at registration, calculated on the price or the book value, whichever the DMV's rules set higher. Title and registration fees apply on top.
Do I keep my plates when I sell a car in Vermont?
Yes. Vermont plates stay with the seller. Remove them at handoff; they can move to a replacement vehicle when you register it.
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.