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When buying a car from a private seller in Michigan, you must obtain the original Certificate of Title. The seller must complete the "Assignment of Title" section on the back, including the date of sale, the selling price, and the current odometer reading. Crucially, all sellers listed on the front of the title must sign the back. As the buyer, you must also sign the title to certify the odometer reading. Do not use white-out or cross anything out, as this will void the document.
No. Michigan does not require a safety or emissions inspection for vehicle registration. Because the state does not verify the condition of the car before you buy it, the responsibility falls entirely on you. It is highly recommended to arrange a pre-purchase inspection with a trusted mechanic to check for rust (common due to road salt) and mechanical issues before handing over any money.
While the signed title is the primary document used to transfer ownership, a bill of sale is strongly recommended. It serves as your official receipt and a legal record of the transaction. The bill of sale should include the vehicle’s year, make, model, VIN, final purchase price, date of sale, and the names and signatures of both the buyer and seller. This can be helpful if the state questions the purchase price for tax purposes.
You will be required to pay a 6% state sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle. This tax is paid directly to the Secretary of State (SOS) office when you title the vehicle, not to the seller. If the purchase price is significantly lower than the retail value, the state may tax you based on the book value unless you can explain the lower price (e.g., mechanical defects). You will also pay a $15 title transfer fee and registration fees based on the vehicle’s MSRP and age.
You cannot use the seller's license plates; they stay with the seller. However, Michigan allows you to drive the vehicle directly home after the purchase without a plate only if you have the assigned title and proof of Michigan no-fault insurance in the vehicle with you. You must take the most direct route home. To drive it anywhere else, you must register it at a Secretary of State office.
You have 15 days from the date of purchase to transfer the title and register the vehicle at a Secretary of State office. If you wait longer than 15 days, a $15 late fee is charged, and you cannot legally drive the car until it is registered.
To complete the title transfer and registration, you must visit a Secretary of State branch office and bring:
The original Michigan title, properly signed by all sellers and you.
Your valid Michigan driver's license or ID.
Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance (must be valid for at least 30 days).
Lien termination statement (if a lien was listed on the old title).
Payment for the 6% sales tax, title fee, and registration fees.
From Inspections to Negotiations: Your Guide to Buying Cars Privately in Michigan.
View Michigan Guide
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