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Before you finalize the purchase, take these critical steps:
1. Check the VIN: Make sure the VIN on the car's dashboard or door jamb matches the VIN on the title document exactly.
2. Lien Check: Use the free lien check service on the AZ MVD Now website. This will confirm if a bank or lender still has a financial claim on the car. If a lien exists, the seller must provide you with a lien release document.
3. Vehicle History Report: Consider buying a report from a service like KarKiosk. This can uncover important information about past accidents, flood damage, or title issues like a salvage brand.
The transfer process often involves both state and tribal steps. The seller must sign the back of the Arizona Certificate of Title, and this signature must be notarized to be valid. Once notarized, if you reside on the reservation, you will likely need to process the registration through the Tohono O'odham Nation’s motor vehicle office. If you live off-reservation, you would proceed through the standard Arizona MVD process.
In Arizona, the license plate stays with the seller. The seller is required by law to remove their plate before you take possession of the vehicle. You will receive a new plate upon registration, either from the state or the tribe, depending on your residency.
Yes, creating a Bill of Sale is highly recommended. It serves as your official receipt and protects both the buyer and seller in case of disputes. It should clearly list the vehicle details (VIN, make, model), sale price, date of sale, and include signatures from both parties. Local tribal offices may also require this document for registration purposes.
To drive the car legally before it is fully registered, you need a temporary permit. You can easily purchase and print a "Restricted Use 3-Day Permit" online from the AZ MVD Now website. This allows you to drive the vehicle home or to the registration office legally.