Complete Guide to Preparing and Signing Your New York Vehicle Title

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and legal transfer of vehicle ownership in New York State.

1. Verify Your Title

Before selling your vehicle in New York, confirm the title is in your name and free of errors. If it’s lost or damaged, request a duplicate through the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) before you sell the vehicle.

2. Sign the Title Correctly

New York does not require notarization for private-party vehicle sales. However, you must accurately complete the title and Bill of Sale. On the back of the title, fill in:  

• Seller’s Signature: Sign in the “Seller’s Signature” section.
• Printed Name of Seller: Print your name as it appears on the front of the title.
• Buyer’s Name and Address: Enter and sign the full legal name and address of the buyer.
• Date of Sale: Write the date the vehicle is sold.
• Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old. Enter the actual mileage.

Important: Do not cross out or alter the title. Errors may require you to obtain a duplicate before transfer.

3. Complete a Bill of Sale

New York requires a Bill of Sale for all private-party vehicle sales. Use the Form DTF-802 (Statement of Transaction). This includes:  

• Vehicle description (year, make, model, VIN).
• Buyer’s and seller’s information and signatures.
• Purchase price and date of sale.
• Odometer reading and condition (if not noted on the title).

4. Remove License Plates

In New York, license plates must be removed by the seller before handing over the vehicle. You must return the plates to the NY DMV or transfer them to another vehicle. Failure to return plates can result in fines and suspended registration privileges.

Key Takeaways  

   

• New York does not require notarization for title transfers.
• Complete all title and Bill of Sale fields accurately to avoid delays.
• Remove your license plates and return them to the DMV.
• Use Form DTF-802 for tax and transaction documentation.

For official forms and detailed information, visit the New York DMV website.