← All printables For the seller: everything to do before, during, and after the sale.

Florida private-party sale

Seller's Closing Checklist

2010 WRX STI
VIN JF1GR8H67AL824109

Before listing

  • Paper title in hand. If the title is electronic, request a paper copy from the county tax collector first, since it can take a few days.
  • Any lien paid off and released
  • Receipts gathered: clutch, tune, paint, radiator, fluid service
  • Extras set aside: JDM shift knob, OEM nav unit
  • Two copies of the bill of sale printed
  • Test drive forms and inspection checklists printed
  • Flyer in the window

Showings and test drives

  • Meet in daylight, at home or a public lot
  • Photo of the driver's license and insurance card
  • Test drive form signed
  • Ride along every time, and keep the spare key
  • Note starting mileage

Taking payment

  • Cash: count it, and check large bills with a counterfeit pen, or count it at your bank
  • Cashier's check: call the issuing bank yourself. Look up the number, don't use the one printed on the check. Better yet, go to the buyer's bank together.
  • No personal checks, payment apps from strangers, or "overpayment" offers
  • Don't sign the title until the money is real

At the sale

  • Fill out the seller section on the title: buyer's name and address, price, date, mileage, and signature
  • Both sign two copies of the bill of sale, and keep one
  • Take a photo of the signed title (front and back) and the buyer's ID
  • Remove the license plate, which stays with you in Florida
  • Remove the SunPass transponder and take the car off your account
  • Unpair your phone, clear CarPlay and Bluetooth, and erase the dashcam SD card
  • Leave the Accessport installed and hand it over. Don't uninstall the tune.
  • Hand over keys, extras, and receipts

Within 30 days

  • File the Notice of Sale (HSMV 82050) with your county tax collector. This releases you from liability for the car.
  • Transfer the plate to another car or surrender it
  • Call your insurer to drop the car after the plate is transferred or surrendered. Florida requires insurance on a registered plate.
  • Keep your copy of the bill of sale and title photos

Useful forms

HSMV 82050, Notice of Sale and/or Bill of Sale: flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/82050.pdf
HSMV 82040, Application for Certificate of Title (the buyer's form): flhsmv.gov/pdf/forms/82040.pdf

General information for a Florida private sale, not legal advice. Check flhsmv.gov or your county tax collector for current rules.