by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process in Maine
When selling a car in Maine, the license plates stay with the seller, but the buyer is responsible for transferring ownership and obtaining new plates. It is also advisable to complete and mail in a Plate Cancellation Request (form MVR-60) which officially cancels your license plates. This form must be notarized to be valid. The seller must provide the buyer with a signed and dated title, as well as a bill of sale. The buyer will need to obtain a new title and register the car in their name to get new plates.
To transfer ownership, the buyer must complete the necessary paperwork and visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) office or participating local Municipal Office. Click here for Appointment & walk-in BMV locations. They will need to provide the following documents:
- A signed and dated title
- A bill of sale (bill of sale template)
- Proof of insurance
- A completed registration application
- An odometer disclosure statement
- A Maine state ID or driver's license
- White & yellow copy of registration application and excise tax receipt (from town office)
License Plate Fees in Maine
The fees for license plates in Maine vary based on several factors, including the type of vehicle, location,type of license plate requested, and registration period. Some of the fees you may need to pay include:
- Title fee: $33
- Registration fee: varies based on vehicle type and location
- Sales tax: 5.5% of the purchase price
Additionally, there may be additional fees for new license plates, registration stickers, and other administrative fees. Click here to see a complete list of the appropriate registration fees .
Conclusion
Selling a car in a private party sale in Maine can be a smooth process as long as you know how to transfer the license plates properly. As the seller, it's your responsibility to provide the buyer with a signed and dated title and a bill of sale. The buyer must then transfer ownership and obtain new plates by visiting the BMV office and providing the necessary documentation. Expect to pay title fees, registration fees, sales tax, and additional fees for new plates and stickers. For more details visit https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/registration/passenger.html#pprivate. By following these steps, you'll be able to navigate the license plate transfer process with ease and have a successful private party car sale in Maine. Good luck!
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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