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For vehicles model year 1995 and newer, you must obtain the original Certificate of Title. The seller needs to sign the back of the title in the "Assignment of Ownership" section. As the buyer, you must also sign this section. Ensure the seller's name matches the front of the title and that any lienholders listed on the front have released their interest. For vehicles model year 1994 and older, Maine does not issue titles. In these cases, the seller must provide a Bill of Sale and the most recent registration certificate.
Yes. Maine requires an annual safety inspection for all vehicles. When you buy a used car, you must get it inspected immediately. If the vehicle has a current, valid inspection sticker, you are allowed to drive it, but you must have it inspected in your own name within 10 days of registering it. If the sticker is expired or missing, you cannot legally drive the vehicle until you get a temporary plate to drive it directly to an inspection station.
Yes, a Bill of Sale is required for all private vehicle sales. It is necessary for calculating the sales tax you owe. The bill of sale must include the date of sale, the vehicle's year, make, model, VIN, the sale price, and the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. Both parties should sign it.
You will be required to pay a 5.5% state sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle. This tax is paid directly to your municipal office (town office) or the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) when you register the vehicle, not to the seller. You will also pay an annual excise tax, which is based on the vehicle's MSRP and age, along with title and registration fees.
To complete the registration, go to your town office (for excise tax) and then the BMV (or handle it all at the town office if they are an agent). You will need:
The original title (for 1995+ vehicles), signed over to you.
The previous registration (for 1994 and older vehicles).
A completed Bill of Sale.
Your valid insurance card for the new vehicle.
The current mileage of the vehicle.
Payment for the 5.5% sales tax, excise tax, title fee ($33), and registration fee.
If the vehicle is 1995 or newer, check the front of the title for listed lienholders. If a bank is listed, the seller must provide a "Lien Release" letter. For vehicles 1994 and older (no title), checking for liens is more difficult. You can check with the Maine Secretary of State's Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) division to see if a lien has been filed against the seller's name or the vehicle.
No, you cannot use the seller's license plates. Those plates belong to the seller and must be removed. To legally drive the vehicle home, you must visit your local municipal office or a BMV branch to pay your excise tax and obtain transit plates (temporary plates). Driving without plates is illegal.
Master the Art of Private Car Sales in Maine: Essential Tips and Resources.
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