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When buying a car from a private seller in Minnesota, the most critical document is the original Certificate of Title. The seller must fill out the "sales tax declaration" portion on the title, listing the purchase price. They must also sign the "seller's signature" section. As the buyer, you must complete your portion, including your full name, address, dates of birth of all owners, and your signature. If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, the odometer disclosure statement on the title must also be completed and signed by both parties.
Instead of a general sales tax, Minnesota charges a specific 6.875% Motor Vehicle Sales Tax (MVST) on the purchase price of the vehicle. This is calculated on the total purchase price listed on the title. If the purchase price is significantly lower than the fair market value (average book value), the state may calculate the tax based on the fair market value instead, unless you can justify the lower price (e.g., the car has significant damage). You pay this tax when you transfer the title at a Deputy Registrar office or DVS exam station.
While the title itself acts as the primary transfer document, a bill of sale is strongly recommended. It serves as your official receipt and protects both you and the seller if questions arise later about the sale date or price. The bill of sale should include the vehicle's year, make, model, VIN, sale price, date of sale, and signatures of both the buyer and seller.
If the vehicle has current Minnesota license plates, they stay with the vehicle, and you can legally drive it home. However, you must have proof of insurance in your name before driving on public roads. You have 10 days to transfer the title into your name. If the tabs (registration stickers) are expired, you must purchase new tabs immediately upon transfer.
Check the front of the title for the "Secured Party" section. If a bank or lender is listed there, the seller must provide a Lien Release card or a notarized lien release form from the lender. If the seller cannot provide proof that the loan is paid off, do not buy the car, as the title cannot be transferred to you until the lien is cleared.
You must transfer the title within 10 business days of the date of sale to avoid a penalty fee. You can do this by visiting a local Deputy Registrar’s office. If you wait longer than 10 days, a $2 late transfer fee is applied, and if you wait months, additional penalties may accrue.
To complete the title transfer and registration, bring the following:
The original Minnesota title, completely filled out and signed by both seller and buyer.
Proof of identification (valid driver's license).
Proof of Minnesota auto insurance (insurance company name, policy number, and expiration date).
Lien release document (if a lienholder was listed on the title).
Payment for the 6.875% MVST, title fees, and registration tax (if tabs are expired).
Unlock Savings in Minnesota's Private Car Market: Essential Tips and Resources.
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