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Generally, no. private party vehicle sales in Arizona are typically exempt from the Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT), which is the state's equivalent of sales tax. This rule applies to transactions between private individuals, offering significant savings over buying from a dealership.
To drive your newly purchased car home or to the MVD in Payson or Globe, you must get a "Restricted Use 3-Day Permit." This temporary permit can be easily purchased and printed online through the AZ MVD Now website. This is essential for legally driving on Highway 188.
To legally transfer ownership, the seller must sign the back of the title. In Arizona, this signature must be notarized to be valid. In Tonto Basin, notary services can be found at local businesses or the post office (check for availability). Otherwise, you may need to travel to nearby Payson or Globe. Once you have the signed and notarized title, take it to an MVD office or an authorized third-party provider to complete the transfer and register the vehicle in your name.
Always prioritize safety by meeting in a public, well-lit area during the day. Since Tonto Basin is largely rural, good options include:
1. The parking lot of a well-known local business or post office.
2. A busy public area, such as a gas station or general store along the main highway.
Before paying, carefully inspect the title document. Ensure the seller’s name on the title matches their government-issued ID. Critically, verify that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the title perfectly matches the VIN on the car’s dashboard and driver-side door jamb.
A lien means a lender still has a financial claim on the vehicle. You can check for liens for free on the AZ MVD Now website using the car's VIN. If a lien exists, the seller must provide you with a lien release document from the lender before you can get a clear title.
For a comprehensive overview of the car's past, consider getting a vehicle history report from KarKiosk. This can uncover critical information that a seller might not disclose, such as previous accidents, flood damage, odometer rollbacks, or a salvage title brand.