Selling a car in Mississippi often feels informal compared to other states, but that relaxed reputation can cause real problems if sellers skip steps. Mississippi expects the title to be completed correctly, plates to be handled properly, and ownership to be clearly documented. When those details are overlooked, sellers can remain tied to a vehicle long after it’s gone, sometimes without realizing it.
This guide explains how to sell a car in Mississippi so the transfer is accepted, the buyer can register without issues, and your responsibility ends when the sale does.
What Mississippi Sellers Should Prepare First
Mississippi requires a valid certificate of title for most vehicle sales. Before selling, make sure:
- Your name matches the title exactly
- Any lien listed has been fully paid and released
- All owners listed on the title are available to sign
- The VIN on the vehicle matches the title
Mississippi does not require notarization of vehicle titles, but accuracy still matters.
Title and Paperwork Rules in Mississippi
Title Signing
When selling a vehicle in Mississippi:
- The seller signs the title exactly as printed
- All owners listed must sign unless the title clearly states “OR”
- No notarization is required
- Avoid cross-outs, corrections, or missing fields
Incomplete or altered titles are one of the most common reasons buyers cannot register a vehicle.
Odometer Disclosure
Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles that are not mileage-exempt due to age. Mileage must be entered accurately at the time of sale. Incorrect mileage entries can delay registration and create legal issues later.
Bill of Sale
A bill of sale is recommended in Mississippi. While the title transfers ownership, a bill of sale helps document:
- Sale date
- Purchase price
- Buyer and seller information
This document can be useful if questions arise later about ownership timing or taxes.
Inspections and Emissions in Mississippi
Mississippi does not require emissions testing or safety inspections for vehicle sales. This makes selling simpler than in many states, especially for older or non-running vehicles. Even without inspection requirements, buyers still factor condition, warning lights, or known mechanical issues into pricing discussions.
License Plates, Registration, and Seller Responsibility
Mississippi handles license plates differently than many states.
- License plates generally stay with the vehicle, not the seller
- Buyers often continue using the existing plate until registration
- Sellers should protect themselves by documenting the sale clearly
Because plates stay with the vehicle, making sure the title transfer is done correctly is especially important to avoid post-sale issues.
Taxes and Fees
- Buyers are responsible for registration fees and applicable taxes
- Sellers are not responsible for buyer taxes after the sale
- Recording the correct sale date helps protect the seller
Keep copies of all signed documents for your records.
Special Situations Mississippi Sellers Should Understand
- Selling with a lien: Vehicles with active liens cannot be sold unless the lien is paid off and released before transfer
- Two names on the title: Both owners must sign unless “OR” is specified
- Lost title: Replacing it before selling prevents delays and buyer hesitation
- Non-running vehicles: Mississippi allows the sale of non-running vehicles without inspection hurdles, but condition must be disclosed honestly
Getting Paid Safely
Private vehicle sales in Mississippi still carry payment risk. Fake cashier’s checks, delayed transfers, and third-party pickup arrangements are common warning signs. Never release the vehicle or title until payment is fully verified and cleared.
For many sellers, managing payment risk becomes the most stressful part of the transaction.
When You Want Fewer Loose Ends After the Sale
Mississippi’s lighter regulations can make private sales seem easy, but that same looseness puts more responsibility on the seller to make sure the transfer is finished properly. Coordinating buyers, completing paperwork correctly, and ensuring payment clears can take more effort than expected, especially for older or problem vehicles.
For sellers who prefer a transaction with clearer boundaries, CarBuyerUSA.com purchases vehicles in Mississippi and throughout the U.S. We help keep the process organized, assist with the paperwork steps that matter, and coordinate pickup so sellers aren’t left wondering whether the sale truly ended.
