Requirements to sell a car and transfer title in New Jersey or New York

[sellingmycar]

Jurisdiction

New Jersey

I live in New Jersey and have a car that I want to sell. I've been getting some strange calls from people who really want to buy the care for more than asking price if I hold it for them. They tell me that they will come over to purchase the car and also have a tow available too, so driving the car without a plate doesn't appear to be an issue. It is strange for me that people would be willing to buy my car without inspection. Maybe the parts are worth more than I asked and they want me to hold the car? I don't know but I am here to understand how transfer of title works to ensure that this isn't yet another scam.

So I know that I need to sign over title to the car to the buyer on the back of the car title document. I also need to collect information from the buyer such as the following:

• Buyer's name and address;
• Date of sale;
• Mileage odometer reading (see below); and
• Sale price.

Maybe even seeing the purchaser's driver's license is a good idea to ensure the above is filled out accurately. If the buyer doesn't want to do this it isn't required but I wonder if that is what this is about, where they will fill in someone else's information. But still, that shouldn't necessarily be my responsibility to ensure accuracy according to the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles.

I know that people sell their cars at dealerships or other similar places. What do they require? What do I need to do as a seller to protect myself from liability from the New Jersey DMV or other agency and also protect myself from liability, such as another person driving this car and getting into an accident if the car isn't legally transferred, etc. Can anyone help?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

Good to see you in the library and glad you posted here. I did a little research on the road and made a few calls. In short:

The items on the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (not DMV like in New York) website are required on the title, and you will need to turn in your plates.

Transferring Vehicle Ownership

I also spoke to a colleague in NJ who mentioned that while you may have transferred title to a buyer in the manner described above, the actual record is not adjusted until it is added by the buyer by registering with the NJ MVC . If someone drives the car and gets into an accident, your name will be on the registration and you will need to prove that you divested yourself of title of the car. While you may not be deemed ultimately liable, you could be in a for a major headache until registration is actually completed by the purchaser.

You will also want to create a bill of sale, that is mentioned in the NJ MVC web page that is clear and includes the signatures of both parties. It is ideal if you can get them notarized which will be a proof of transfer but not necessary. At the very least, you probably want to see a driver's license. If the purchaser is fuzzy on the details, such as saying they are buying the car on behalf of someone else, etc. then you might want to consider that the purchaser may not be fully bona fide. I'd mention to them that you need to obtain the actual purchaser's name, address and signature and not a proxy, unless the person purchasing wants to resell it to someone else and then it is their issue. Best of luck with your car and hope it helps.

 

[welkin]

I live in New Jersey and have a car that I want to sell. I've been getting some strange calls from people who really want to buy the care for more than asking price if I hold it for them. They tell me that they will come over to purchase the car and also have a tow available too, so driving the car without a plate doesn't appear to be an issue. It is strange for me that people would be willing to buy my car without inspection. Maybe the parts are worth more than I asked and they want me to hold the car? I don't know but I am here to understand how transfer of title works to ensure that this isn't yet another scam.

Too good to be true? It is. It is a very well-known scam.

Maybe even seeing the purchaser's driver's license is a good idea to ensure the above is filled out accurately. If the buyer doesn't want to do this it isn't required but I wonder if that is what this is about, where they will fill in someone else's information. But still, that shouldn't necessarily be my responsibility to ensure accuracy according to the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles.

It is your responsibility. Title-jumping, as it is called, is illegal in all 50 states. Don't do it.

 

[army judge]

I live in New Jersey and have a car that I want to sell. I've been getting some strange calls from people who really want to buy the care for more than asking price if I hold it for them. They tell me that they will come over to purchase the car and also have a tow available too, so driving the car without a plate doesn't appear to be an issue.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of Title Jumping: Essential Steps to Protect Yourself

In recent years, title jumping has become increasingly prevalent in vehicle transactions. Unfortunately, it can be a severe problem for many unsuspecting victims with lasting financial and legal consequences.

In this article, we will explore what title jumping is, why it occurs, and, most importantly, the steps to take if you find yourself a victim of this unfortunate scheme.

Title jumping refers to the illegal act of selling a vehicle without properly transferring the title to the new owner. This can happen when the seller tries to avoid paying taxes and fees or hides a questionable history that might deter potential buyers.

Typically, the seller will claim to have lost or misplaced the title, but the fallout can be quite burdensome for those who fall prey to this deceitful tactic.

If you find yourself a victim of title jumping, acting quickly to mitigate any potential repercussions is essential.

The following article will explore the crucial steps to protect themselves and resolve a title-jumping situation. By doing so, you'll arm yourself with the knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of title jumping and reclaim your rights as a rightful vehicle owner.

What is Title Jumping

Definition and Explanation

In the context of vehicle transactions, title jumping refers to selling a vehicle without legally transferring the title into the seller's name. This occurs when an individual purchases and sells a vehicle without registering it in their name.

In most states and countries, the title of a vehicle must be transferred to the buyer, who then has a certain period (typically 30 days) to register the car in their name. If the buyer fails to register the vehicle and sells it to another person, this constitutes title jumping.

Legalities and Consequences

Title jumping is illegal and a crime in nearly all jurisdictions, and violating these laws can have serious consequences.

For example, victims of title jumping may face difficulty registering the vehicle if the title is improperly transferred. In addition, buyers may have to pay additional fees or penalties or possibly experience the repossession of the vehicle by the rightful owner.

For the seller, engaging in title jumping can result in criminal and civil penalties. Under state and local statutes, the seller could face the following:

• Fines
• Imprisonment
• Suspension or revocation of their driver's license
• Vehicle impoundment

For example, in California title jumping is considered a felony under the California vehicle code.

Title Skipping vs. Title Jumping

While title jumping is the intentional act of not transferring the vehicle's title to avoid taxes or other fees, title skipping is slightly different.

Title skipping happens when two or more consecutive buyers neglect to transfer the title properly.

Both title skipping and title jumping can lead to confusion and difficulty for buyers and sellers involved in the transaction.

All involved parties must follow the correct procedures for transferring and registering vehicle titles to avoid legal consequences and protect the vehicle's ownership and investment.

Title Jumping FAQs

What is title jumping?

Title jumping occurs when an individual sells a vehicle without properly transferring the title into their name. Instead, they sell the car using the title the previous owner signed over to them, often to bypass taxes and fees or hide the vehicle's history.

What should I do if I'm a victim of title jumping?

1. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to report the issue.
2. File a police report to document the situation.
3. Gather all documentation relating to the vehicle purchase – bills of sale, records of payment, etc.
4. Consult with an attorney if necessary.

How can I avoid becoming a victim of title jumping?

To minimize the risk of title jumping:

• Verify the seller's identification, and ensure it matches the name on the title.
• Check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to review the vehicle's history.
• Confirm that the title is genuine, liens-free, and properly assigned.
• Request a signed bill of sale with complete information about the buyer, seller, and vehicle.

What is the penalty for title jumping? Is title jumping a felony?

Title jumping is illegal and considered a form of fraud. Penalties can include fines, vehicle forfeiture, and even criminal prosecution. Depending on the value of the vehicle and the state in which you live, title jumping may be charged as a fraud.

Can I register a car without the title?

In most cases, you cannot register a car without the title. However, some states allow you to apply for a bonded title, providing specific documentation is submitted. Check with your local DMV for your state's requirements.

Can I sue someone for title jumping?

Yes, you can bring a lawsuit against someone for title jumping. Depending on the purchase price of the vehicle and the state in which you live, you may need to file a small claims court action or retain an attorney and file in civil court.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of Title Jumping: Essential Steps to Protect Yourself

Learn what title jumping is, its consequences, and how to protect yourself. Understand the steps you should take if you do become a target of title jumping.

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