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When buying a car from a private seller in Missouri, the seller must provide the original Certificate of Title. The seller must sign the back of the title in the "Assignment of Title" section, including the date of sale and the sale price. Crucially, if the title was issued before January 1, 2020, the seller is NOT required to report the mileage on the title for vehicles over 10 years old (though they often do). For titles issued after that date, the exemption is 20 years. Ensure the seller's name matches the front of the title. If the title lists a lienholder, ensure the lien release is provided.
Yes. Missouri requires a safety inspection for most vehicles regardless of age unless the vehicle is less than 10 years old and has less than 150,000 miles (though the odometer reading must be verified). Additionally, if you live in the St. Louis area (City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Jefferson County) or Franklin County, an emissions inspection is also required. You must present a passing inspection certificate (Certificate of Inspection and Approval) not more than 60 days old when you register the vehicle.
You will pay state sales tax (4.225%) plus any local sales taxes based on your address, not where you bought the car. You can estimate this using the Missouri Department of Revenue's tax calculator. You will also pay a title fee ($8.50), a registration processing fee ($6.00), and license plate fees which vary based on the vehicle's taxable horsepower.
Yes, a Bill of Sale (Form 1957) is required. This document is necessary for the Department of Revenue to verify the purchase price and calculate the correct sales tax. It must include the vehicle description (Year, Make, Model, VIN), the sale price, the date of sale, and the signatures of both the buyer and seller. If the seller writes the sale price on the back of the title in the designated area, that can sometimes suffice, but a separate Form 1957 is highly recommended to avoid issues.
Check the front of the title for the "Lienholder" section. If a bank or lender is listed, the seller must provide a Lien Release (Form 4809) that is notarized, or the title itself must be stamped "Paid" and signed by the lender. If the seller cannot provide proof the lien is cleared, do not purchase the vehicle, as you will not be able to title it in your name.
To complete the title transfer and registration, go to a Missouri license office and bring:
The original Missouri title, signed by the seller and buyer.
A completed Bill of Sale (Form 1957).
A completed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108).
Your valid personal property tax receipt or a statement of non-assessment.
Proof of Missouri auto insurance.
A current safety inspection certificate (and emissions, if applicable).
Payment for the sales tax, title fee, and registration fees.
You have 30 days from the date of purchase to title the vehicle and pay the sales tax. If you wait longer than 30 days, a penalty fee is charged. The penalty is $25 for every 30 days you are late, up to a maximum of $200.
Unlock Savings in Missouri's Private Car Market: Essential Tips and Resources.
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