A stress-free guide to selling your car and transferring the title in Missouri

A stress-free guide to selling your car and transferring the title in Missouri

Understanding the car title: what does the title mean for a car?

A title certificate is a formal document issued by a state or municipality, officially identifying the owner(s) of a vehicle. This certificate serves as documentary proof of the rightful ownership of the vehicle. Your car's title is like its ID card, which includes crucial info: the vehicle identification number (VIN), mileage at sale, and car type, etc.

Read more about different types of car titles including branded title here.

How do I transfer a car title in Missouri?

The process of transferring a car title is usually simple:

• The seller signs the existing title to release the ownership. If there are two people in the title, both should sign it. Depending on the state, additional details, such as odometer reading, buyer's information, sale price, as well as notary witness, may be required.

• After the owner(s) signs the title, the buyer can go to the relevant state office to get a new title issued in their name.

To sell a car in Missouri, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue. If you're managing the sale in a private transaction (excluding trade-ins or sales to a Missouri dealer), here's what you need to take care of:

Seller's responsibilities:

• Provide the buyer with a properly assigned certificate of title. Refer to the sample car title for Missouri provided below. Here you can find instructions for completing the title assignment.
• Prepare a safety inspection certificate issued within the last 60 days.
• Present an emissions inspection conducted within the last 60 days if the buyer resides in St. Louis City or the following counties: Jefferson, St. Charles, or St. Louis.
• If applicable, provide the buyer with a notarized Lien Release (Form 4809).
• Record the odometer reading and date of sale. The certificate of title must include the disclosed mileage at the time of transferring ownership to a new owner. In cases where the certificate of title lacks space for accurate odometer information or the printed names and signatures of both buyers and sellers, it is necessary to include a duly completed Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form 3019) or an alternative form issued by the seller.
• Remove the car's plates.
• Notify the Missouri Department of Revenue about the sale within 30 days by submitting a filled-out Form 1957 (Bill of Sale) or Form 5049 (Notice of Sale).

Additional materials that would be beneficial to bring to buyers are:

• Comprehensive maintenance records.
• Original purchase documents, especially if the vehicle was bought brand new;
• The owner's manual.

Also, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue's website before you sell a car to see if any other documents are required. 

How to sell a car online safely and fast in Missouri

Selling a car with a loan in Missouri

Buyer's Role:

• Fill out the buyer fields on the certificate of title.
• Head to the Missouri Department of Revenue with the signed title and Bill of Sale.
• Pay the $8.50 title fee, the $6 processing fee (figures are actual at the date of publication, check the up-to-date information at the Missouri Department of Revenue), and any applicable sales tax within 30 days. Missouri state tax is 4.225%, and you are also required to pay your local sales tax based on the purchase price, minus any trade-in allowance. The online sales tax calculator provided by the Missouri Department of Revenue can assist you in estimating the taxes you will be responsible for.
• Upon acquiring your vehicle, you have the option to secure a temporary permit, transfer existing license plates from a vehicle you currently own, or opt to purchase new license plates. 

Missouri Sales Tax On Cars: Quick And Simple Guide with Clement Group Dealership Experts

How to transfer the title of a car in MO from a deceased person?

In Missouri, individuals have the option to choose who receives their car after they're no longer around by identifying a "Transfer On Death" beneficiary on their title application. The chosen individuals don't possess the car while the owner is alive, but they inherit it after the owner passes away.

To inform the Missouri Department of Revenue about a death, you can send a copy of the death certificate by mail or deliver it in person to any Missouri license office. If you're transferring the title of the vehicle, you'll need to fill out a Notice of Transfer (Form 5049) or a Bill of Sale (Form 1957).

What is title jumping?

Title jumping, also known as title skipping or floating, occurs when a person buys a vehicle but fails to register it in their name before selling it to someone else. Engaging in this activity is against the law and may result in various complications, as it circumvents proper ownership documentation and can result in fraudulent transactions.

Can you transfer a plate to a family member in MO?

Yes, in Missouri, you can transfer a license plate to a family member. On the back of the title assignment, write "Gift" in the purchase price section. Take the title along with a General Affidavit to the Missouri Department of Revenue office. You'll pay the title fee and basic registration fees but won't need to pay sales tax.

Additionally, you must provide a Notice of Sale to complete the process of transferring the title and registration.

Can a non-resident register a car in Missouri?

Registering your vehicle in Missouri requires establishing residence in the state. To be acknowledged as a Missouri resident, you must provide one of the following documents:

• A copy of a Missouri driver's license 
• Missouri voter registration.
• A copy of Missouri income tax.
• A copy of a Missouri property tax receipt.

Then, you must title your vehicle within 30 days of becoming a Missouri resident. To get a Missouri registration, for a vehicle currently titled in another state, you need to submit the following:

1. Original title or proof of ownership from your previous state.
2. If there is a lien on the vehicle, obtain the title from the lienholder.
3. If the lienholder holds the out-of-state title and refuses to release it, submit a written statement from the lienholder, and provide additional documentation depending on the circumstances.
4. A filled-out Form 108 (application for Missouri title and license). 
5. Identification number and odometer inspection from a Missouri authorized inspection station.
6. Current insurance identification card or other proof of financial responsibility.
7. A declaration of non-assessment from your residence county or City of St. Louis assessor's office, showing no personal property taxes owed.
8. Missouri safety inspection completed within the last 60 days.
9. Emissions inspection not more than 60 days old if applicable, based on your residence.

Dealership vs. private sale: which is better for selling a car in Missouri?

Selling a car to a dealership provides a more streamlined alternative compared to private sales, eliminating the need for tasks such as negotiating, and paperwork collection. Private sales demand significantly more effort and time than transactions with dealerships. However, for those experienced in the sales process with no time constraints, engaging in a private sale can be rewarding. While it involves more legal work, there's the potential to retain a higher profit.

Dealership:

• Dealers handle paperwork and guide you through fees.

• A title may be in the lender's name until the loan is paid.

Private Sale:

• Buyers and sellers manage paperwork.

• Sellers create the Bill of Sale.

If you choose to sell a car privately, it's advisable to obtain a trade-in quote from a dealership for comparison. In certain situations, opting for a trade-in can be advantageous.

Dealer auto trade-in value: benefits and assessment

At Clement Pre-Owned, you can sell or trade in your car for any vehicle from our extensive inventory of over 1000 cars. 

In conclusion, navigating the process of selling your car and transferring the title in Missouri doesn't have to be stressful. If you find yourself short on time or simply prefer to avoid the hassle of finding buyers, dealing with lenders, collecting paperwork, and you're thinking about purchasing another vehicle, consider selling or trading in your car at Clement Pre-Owned. We accept all brands and models in good technical condition, even if you don’t buy anything from us. Call us (636) 428-2619 or (314) 526-3518 for more details. Or visit one of our convenient Clement Pre-owned locations in St. Charles and St. Louis, MO.