Thankfully, the DMV allows for vehicles to be sold with a bill of sale (aka, without a title) so the short answer is YES – you can sell a car without a title.
Transferring a car title usually requires the vehicle title itself and a title application, the parties' addresses, signatures from the previous and new owners, and details on the vehicle and its value. These documents look different from state to state, but the information they require is generally the same.
Once you start the online Title Transfer process, a DMV Virtual Assistant will let you know if you also need: Smog certification. Use tax and/or various other fees. Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) form.
While it is common to present a bill of sale in a digital format, you can also create a handwritten bill of sale. What's most important is to include all of the pertinent details in the bill of sale in order to protect both parties.
How to sell your car in California Collect your documentation. Clean your vehicle. Get an inspection. Fill out official transfer forms. Disclose odometer reading. Get a smog check. Forms needed for special circumstances. Take pictures.
To take over ownership of a vehicle, you will need: If the seller is not the owner whose name is on the title, you will need a Bill of Sale signed by both the seller and the person whose name appears on the title. A record of the odometer mileage (if the vehicle is less than 10 years old).
Can a bill of sale be handwritten? While it is common to present a bill of sale in a digital format, you can also create a handwritten bill of sale. What's most important is to include all of the pertinent details in the bill of sale in order to protect both parties.
To take over ownership of a vehicle, you will need: If the seller is not the owner whose name is on the title, you will need a Bill of Sale signed by both the seller and the person whose name appears on the title. A record of the odometer mileage (if the vehicle is less than 10 years old).
The signatures legally bind the document, confirming that both parties agree to the terms of the sale as described. Witness or Notarization (If Required): Depending on the item being sold or local requirements, a witness's signature or notarization may be necessary to validate the Bill of Sale.