Selling a vehicle in Arkansas is relatively straightforward, but sellers still run into problems when paperwork is incomplete or liability isn’t handled properly. Many issues don’t show up until weeks after the sale—tickets, registration notices, or buyers claiming something was done incorrectly. Understanding
Arkansas-specific rules before you sell protects you from those problems.
This guide explains exactly how to sell a car in Arkansas, whether it’s running or not, newer or older, paid off or still financed.
What Arkansas Requires Before You Sell
Arkansas requires a valid certificate of title for most vehicles. Before selling, make sure:
- Your name matches the title exactly
- All owners listed on the title are present to sign
- Any lien listed on the title has been fully released
- The VIN on the vehicle matches the title
Arkansas does not require emissions testing or smog certification to sell a vehicle, which simplifies the process for sellers.
Title and Paperwork Rules in Arkansas
Title Signing
Arkansas does not require title notarization for vehicle sales. Sellers sign the title exactly as their name appears.
Important rules:
- All sellers listed on the title must sign
- Do not alter, cross out, or overwrite information
- Dates and sale price should be accurate
Errors on the title can delay the buyer’s registration and create post-sale problems for the seller.
Odometer Disclosure
Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles that are not mileage-exempt due to age. The mileage must be recorded accurately at the time of sale. Guessing or leaving the odometer section incomplete can lead to legal issues later.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is recommended in Arkansas, even if not required in every transaction. It serves as written proof of when the sale occurred and protects both parties.
A proper 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 Common Title Mistakes
Most Arkansas title issues happen because sellers rush the process. To avoid problems:
- Sign your name exactly as shown on the title
- Do not use correction fluid or cross-outs
- Complete all required seller fields before handing over the title
- Double-check VIN and mileage entries
If the title is lost, damaged, or filled out incorrectly, replacing it before selling is often faster than trying to fix errors afterward.
License Plates, Registration, and Taxes
In Arkansas, license plates typically stay with the seller, not the vehicle. Sellers should remove the plate before releasing the car.
After the sale:
- The buyer is responsible for registration and taxes
- The buyer obtains their own plate
- The seller is not responsible for future registration costs
Removing your plate helps prevent tolls, tickets, and liability issues after the sale.
Special Situations Arkansas Sellers Should Understand
- Selling with a lien: Vehicles with an active lien cannot legally be sold unless the lien is paid off and released at or before closing.
- Two names on the title: If two owners are listed, both must usually sign unless the title clearly states “OR.”
- Lost title: Selling without a title limits buyers and often reduces value. Replacing the title first is strongly advised.
- Non-running or salvage vehicles: Arkansas allows the sale of non-running vehicles, but condition and title status must be disclosed honestly.
Getting Paid Safely
Private vehicle sales come with payment risks. Fake cashier’s checks, overpayment scams, and buyers using third-party transport stories are common. Never release the vehicle or title until payment is verified and fully cleared. For many sellers, avoiding these risks is worth more than chasing a slightly higher private-party price.
A Practical Alternative for Arkansas Vehicle Sellers
Not everyone wants to juggle title paperwork, plate removal, buyer negotiations, and payment risk, especially when selling an older, damaged, or non-running vehicle.
For many Arkansas sellers, simplicity matters more than squeezing out every last dollar in a private sale.
CarBuyerUSA works with sellers across Arkansas and nationwide, buying vehicles in any condition. We handle the process from start to finish, including paperwork guidance, so you don’t have to coordinate with strangers or worry about post-sale issues. If your goal is to sell your car without delays, confusion, or unnecessary risk, CarBuyerUSA.com offers a straightforward way to get it done.
