Selling a vehicle in Alabama is generally simpler than in many states, but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Most seller problems happen after the car is gone—tickets in the mail, toll notices, tax issues, or buyers calling weeks later claiming paperwork problems. Knowing Alabama’s rules before you sell protects you from all of that.
This guide explains exactly how to sell a car in Alabama, whether it’s running or not, paid off or not, old or newer.
What Alabama Requires Before You Sell
Alabama requires a valid certificate of title for most vehicles 1975 model year and newer. Before selling, confirm:
- Your name matches the title exactly
- All owners listed on the title are available to sign
- Any lien has been fully paid and released
- The VIN on the vehicle matches the title
Alabama does not require emissions testing or smog certification to sell a vehicle, which removes one major hurdle found in other states.
Title and Paperwork Rules in Alabama
Title Signing and Notarization
Alabama requires the seller’s signature on the title to be notarized. This is non-negotiable and one of the most common reasons private sales fall apart.
Important points:
- The notary must witness the signature
- Signing first and notarizing later can invalidate the transfer
- All sellers listed on the title must sign in front of the notary
Odometer Disclosure
For vehicles that are not mileage-exempt due to age, odometer disclosure must be completed accurately. Never guess or leave it blank. Incorrect mileage statements can create legal and financial liability long after the sale.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is strongly recommended in Alabama, even though it is not always legally required. It serves as proof of the sale date, purchase price, and parties involved.
A solid bill of sale should include:
- Buyer and seller names
- Vehicle year, make, model, and VIN
- Sale price and date
- Signatures from both parties
How to Avoid Title Mistakes That Delay or Kill a Sale
Alabama titles are unforgiving when filled out incorrectly. To avoid delays:
- Sign your name exactly as printed on the title
- Do not cross out errors or use correction fluid
- Complete all seller sections fully
- Ensure notarization is done correctly and clearly
If the title is damaged, lost, or already signed incorrectly, replacing it before selling is usually faster than trying to repair it afterward.
License Plates, Registration, and Taxes
In Alabama, license plates generally stay with the seller, not the vehicle. Sellers should remove the plate before releasing the car. Leaving your plate on exposes you to tolls, traffic tickets, and potential liability.
After the sale:
- The buyer handles registration and taxes
- The buyer obtains their own plate
- The seller is not responsible for buyer registration costs
Keep copies of your title transfer and bill of sale for your records.
Special Situations Alabama Sellers Should Understand
- Selling with a lien: Vehicles with active liens cannot legally be sold unless the lien is paid off at closing and properly released.
- Two names on the title: If two owners are listed, both usually must sign unless the title clearly states “OR.”
- Lost title: Selling without a title limits buyers and lowers value. Replacing it first protects you.
- Non-running or salvage vehicles: These can be sold legally, but condition and title status must be disclosed honestly.
Getting Paid Safely
Private sales carry payment risk. Fake cashier’s checks, overpayment scams, and third-party shipping stories are common. Never release the title or vehicle until payment is fully verified and cleared.
Many sellers decide that avoiding these risks altogether is worth more than chasing a slightly higher private-party price.
A Simple Option for Alabama Sellers
If notarization, paperwork, plates, or unreliable buyers feel like more trouble than they’re worth, there’s an easier path. CarBuyerUSA buys vehicles nationwide, including Alabama. Running or not, clean or damaged, titled or problem vehicles. We buy anything with a VIN.
We help guide sellers through the process and remove the uncertainty that comes with private sales. If you want to sell your car in Alabama without stress or surprises, CarBuyerUSA.com is built for exactly that.
