State
Select
City
Select
Make
Select
Model
Select
Price Under
Select
Mileage
Select
*T&C Applied
When buying a car from a private seller in Tennessee, you must obtain the original Certificate of Title. The seller must complete the "Assignment of Title by Registered Owner" section on the back, including the current odometer reading, sale price, and date of sale. Both you (the buyer) and the seller must sign this section. Ensure the seller's signature matches the name printed on the front of the title.
You will be required to pay state and local sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle. This tax is paid directly to the County Clerk's office when you title and register the car, not to the seller. The state sales tax is 7%, plus any applicable local taxes. You will also pay separate fees for the title transfer and registration.
While a properly completed title is the main legal document, a bill of sale is highly 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.
Examine the "Lienholder" section on the front of the title. If a bank or credit union is listed, the seller must provide you with a lien release letter from that financial institution or the title must have the lien officially released on the document itself. Without proof that the loan has been paid off, you will not be able to obtain a clean title in your name.
You cannot legally use the seller's license plates, as they must be removed at the time of sale. You are expected to visit your County Clerk's office promptly to transfer the title and get your own license plates. Driving without plates is illegal, so you should plan to transport the vehicle or go to the clerk's office immediately.
From Inspections to Negotiations: Your Guide to Buying Cars Privately in Tennessee.
View TN Guide
6010 W. Spring Creek Pkwy,
Plano, TX 75024
© 2026 KarKiosk. All rights reserved.
List Your Car
