What Documents Do You Need to Sell Your Car?
At Tony Auto Group, proudly serving Waipahu, Kailua-Kona, and Hilo, Hawaii, we streamline every step so you can focus on getting the best value for the car you’re looking to sell. When you arrive, you’ll be ready for an instant appraisal if you bring four essentials: your vehicle title, current registration, photo ID, and any lien-release paperwork.
Let’s dive into what documents you need to sell your car today.*
Vehicle Title
The car title is the definitive proof that you own the vehicle. If you financed your car, your lender will likely retain the original title until you repay the loan. Once your last payment clears, request a lien release statement from your bank or credit union, which officially frees the title.
A lien release must be notarized to be valid, so double-check with your lender about any notary requirements. Lost your title? File for a duplicate through the DMV’s online portal.
Processing can take 4–6 weeks, so start early. A clear, unencumbered title lets us transfer ownership immediately and ensures you receive your funds without delay.
Current Registration & Inspection Records
A valid registration card confirms your vehicle is legally allowed on the road. More importantly, cars undergo mandated safety and emissions inspections every two years. Presenting up-to-date inspection certificates shows prospective buyers and our appraisal team that your vehicle complies with state requirements and poses no hidden mechanical issues.
If your registration has lapsed, you can renew online; save the confirmation email or receipt as proof of renewal if the official sticker hasn’t arrived yet. Additionally, bring service invoices if you’ve invested in recent maintenance, such as new brake pads, fresh oil changes, or tire rotations.
Demonstrating that your vehicle has been well cared for can improve its appraisal value and speed up the sales process.
Photo ID
To prevent title fraud and satisfy state law, another key document you need to sell your car is some form of valid government-issued photo ID: a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. This ID links you to the title’s signature and establishes you as the legitimate seller.
Beyond that, any records of aftermarket upgrades, like upgraded suspension, custom paintwork, or premium audio systems, can bolster buyer confidence. Keep original purchase receipts and installation guarantees to show that these modifications were performed professionally.
Finally, complete a simple bill of sale that itemizes the sale price, vehicle identification number (VIN), odometer reading, and transaction date.
A fully completed bill of sale protects you and the buyer by clearly documenting terms and preventing future disputes.
Q: Can I sell without the original title?
Q: What exactly is a lien release?
Q: Why should I sell my car to your car dealership?
Bring the Documents You Need to Sell Your Car Today
Gathering the proper documents, such as your title, registration, ID, lien releases, and any upgrade receipts, ensures a fast, transparent sale at Tony Auto Group so that you can continue to enjoy drives to Waipahu Beach. Now that you know what documents you need to sell your car near Waipahu, Kailua-Kona, and Hilo, HI, see how we can help you through the process. Contact us today!
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| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Sunday | 10:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:30PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Friday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 3:30PM |
| Sunday | Closed |