Selling your car should be simple. But when you’re staring at a pile of documents and wondering what’s actually required, it can feel overwhelming.
The good news? You don’t need much. And we’ll walk you through exactly what you need, why you need it, and how to get it.
The Must-Have Documents
Let’s start with the non-negotiables. These are the documents you absolutely need to complete the sale.
The Title
This is the big one. The title proves you own the car.
If you own your car outright, you should have the title. It’s usually stored somewhere safe—maybe a file cabinet, a desk drawer, or that random box in the closet you never open.
If you still have a loan on the car, the lender holds the title. Don’t panic. This is normal, and a buyer like Before U Trade knows how to handle it. We work directly with your lender to get the title released once the loan is paid off.
Lost your title? Most states let you request a duplicate from your DMV. It usually takes a few weeks and costs around $10 to $25.
A Valid ID
You’ll need a government-issued photo ID. A driver’s license works perfectly.
This confirms you’re the person named on the title. Without it, the sale can’t legally go through.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is a receipt for the transaction. It includes the sale price, date, and details about the car and both parties.
Some states require this. Others don’t, but it’s still a good idea to have one for your records.
When you sell to Before U Trade, we handle this for you. No need to create your own.
The Nice-to-Have Documents
These aren’t required, but they can help speed up the process or increase your offer.
Service Records
If you’ve kept up with oil changes, tire rotations, and major repairs, having those records shows the car was well maintained.
Owner’s Manual and Extra Keys
Not required, but having the original manual and a spare key adds value. Buyers appreciate these extras.
Warranty Information
If your car is still under warranty, bring that documentation. It can make the car more attractive to buyers.
What If I Still Owe Money on My Car?
If you have a loan, the lender holds the title. Here’s what you need:
- Your loan account number
- The lender’s contact information
- Your current payoff amount
That’s it. Before U Trade handles the rest. We contact your lender, pay off the loan, and take care of the title transfer. You just show up, hand over the keys, and get paid.
Common Questions About Paperwork
Can I sell my car without the title?
Technically, no. The title proves ownership. But if you’ve lost it, you can get a duplicate from your DMV.
What if my name isn’t on the title?
You can’t sell a car if you’re not the legal owner. The person on the title needs to be present or sign over the title to you first.
Do I need to cancel my insurance before I sell?
Wait until after the sale is complete. Once the transaction is done, call your insurance company to cancel coverage. You might even get a refund for unused months.
Why Before U Trade Makes This Easier
Paperwork is the part of selling a car that trips people up. But it doesn’t have to.
When you sell to Before U Trade, we handle the complicated stuff. We know what’s required in your state, we work with your lender if you have a loan, and we make sure everything is done right.
You just bring your ID and your car. We take care of the rest.
The Bottom Line
Selling your car doesn’t require a mountain of paperwork. You need your title, your ID, and a bill of sale. Everything else is optional but helpful.
The key is working with someone who knows the process inside and out. That way, you’re not left guessing or scrambling for documents at the last minute.
Ready to sell? Get a free, no-obligation offer from Before U Trade today. We’ll walk you through exactly what you need and make the whole process simple.
