Selling a vehicle in Colorado can be smooth if you understand the rules, but sellers who don’t often end up stuck with delayed transfers, buyer complaints, or lingering liability. Colorado has its own quirks when it comes to emissions testing, plates, and title handling, and skipping a step can create problems weeks after the sale.
This guide explains exactly how to sell a car in Colorado, whether it’s running or not, newer or older, paid off or still financed.
What Colorado Requires Before You Sell
Colorado requires a valid certificate of title for most vehicle sales. Before listing or handing over your vehicle, confirm:
- Your name matches the title exactly
- All owners listed on the title are available to sign
- Any lien listed on the title has been paid off and released
- The VIN on the vehicle matches the title
Colorado does not require notarization of vehicle titles, which simplifies signing compared to some states.
Title and Paperwork Rules in Colorado
Title Signing
When selling a vehicle in Colorado:
- The seller signs the title exactly as printed
- All owners listed on the title must sign
- No notarization is required
- Errors, cross-outs, or missing information can delay the buyer’s registration
Titles should be completed carefully and legibly. Mistakes often lead to buyers returning with paperwork problems long after the sale.
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. Incorrect mileage reporting can create legal and financial issues for both parties.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is recommended in Colorado. While the title transfers ownership, a bill of sale documents the sale date, price, and condition of the vehicle and helps protect sellers from future disputes.
Emissions Testing in Colorado
Colorado has emissions testing requirements in certain counties, primarily in and around major metro areas.
Key points for sellers:
- Emissions testing applies in designated areas only
- Vehicles registered in emissions counties must pass testing
- Some vehicles may be exempt based on age, fuel type, or registration location
Failure to address emissions requirements can delay a sale or reduce buyer interest.
License Plates, Registration, and Seller Responsibility
Colorado handles license plates differently than many states.
- Plates typically stay with the seller, not the vehicle
- Sellers should remove plates before releasing the car
- Buyers must obtain their own plates and register the vehicle
Leaving plates on the vehicle can expose sellers to tolls, tickets, and liability after the sale.
Taxes and Fees
- Buyers are responsible for sales/use tax and registration fees
- Sellers are not responsible for buyer taxes after the sale
- Accurately documenting the sale date helps protect the seller
Keep copies of your paperwork for your records.
Special Situations Colorado Sellers Should Understand
- Selling with a lien: Vehicles with an active lien cannot be legally sold unless the lien is paid off and released before or at closing.
- Two names on the title: If two owners are listed, both must sign unless the title clearly states “OR.”
- Lost title: Replacing a lost or damaged title before selling prevents delays and buyer hesitation.
- Non-running vehicles: Colorado allows the sale of non-running vehicles, but condition and title status must be disclosed honestly.
Getting Paid Safely
Private vehicle sales always involve payment risk. Fake cashier’s checks, delayed payments, and third- party shipping stories are common. Never release the vehicle or title until payment is verified and fully cleared.
Many sellers choose certainty and speed over navigating private-sale risks.
A Straightforward Option for Colorado Sellers
Between emissions rules, plate removal, and paperwork details, selling a car in Colorado can be more work than expected. For sellers who want a simpler route, CarBuyerUSA works with vehicle owners across Colorado and nationwide, purchasing vehicles in virtually any condition.
We help simplify the process, guide sellers through paperwork, and arrange pickup without the stress of private listings or buyer uncertainty. If your priority is selling your car in Colorado without delays or surprises, CarBuyerUSA.com offers a practical alternative.
