Verify Used Car Title and Paperwork Before Purchase

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Match seller’s ID to the title to prevent fraudulent ownership transfer.
• Check for open liens through DMV or a title service.
• Verify VIN on title, registration, and vehicle to avoid theft or cloning.
• Review title for salvage, rebuilt, or flood branding that affects insurability.
• Confirm odometer reading on title matches car’s display.
• Request a bill of sale with price, date, and signatures to prevent disputes.
• Ensure title signed correctly by both buyer and seller to avoid DMV issues.
• Ask for maintenance records and match VINs for service confirmation.
• Check for outstanding tickets or tolls on the license plate.
• Request a lien release letter if a lender is listed.
• Confirm required inspection certificates to prevent registration delays.
• Photocopy all paperwork before DMV submission for proof of documentation.