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Always look at the original title before you pay the seller. Check that the seller's name exactly matches the name printed on the front of the title. Ask to see their driver's license to confirm their identity. If the title lists a bank or lender, the seller must give you a signed lien release. You cannot register the car in your name without this official release document.
No. While several counties near Atlanta require annual emissions testing, Berrien County is exempt. You do not need an emissions inspection certificate to buy, sell, or register a passenger vehicle here.
You should document the sale using an official bill of sale to protect both parties. We highly recommend filling out the Georgia Department of Revenue Form T-7. Both you and the seller must sign and date this form. Keep the completed document safe, because the county tag office needs it to process your registration.
You do not pay traditional sales tax on a private party car sale in Georgia. Instead, you pay a Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT). This tax generally equals 7% of the vehicle's state-determined fair market value, rather than your actual payment price. You pay this tax directly to the Berrien County Tax Commissioner when applying for your title. You will also pay an $18 title transfer fee and a $20 license plate fee.
Under Georgia law, the license plate belongs to the seller. The seller must take the plate off the car before handing over the keys. You cannot drive the vehicle with the seller's old plate attached.
You have seven days from the date of the sale to visit your county tag office, register the vehicle, pay the TAVT, and get a new license plate. Keep the signed title and dated bill of sale in the vehicle during those first seven days. This paperwork proves you own the car if a police officer pulls you over.