What should I do if my vehicle is sold or transferred?

When a vehicle is sold or transferred in Rhode Island, the former owner must take specific steps to ensure the process is completed legally and efficiently. First, the seller should complete the vehicle's title transfer by filling out the required sections on the title document, which includes the buyer's name and address. It is important to ensure that the buyer and seller both sign the title. Additionally, the seller should provide the buyer with a bill of sale, which serves as a record of the transaction. This document should include details such as the sale price, vehicle identification number, make, model, and the date of the sale. The seller must also notify the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles regarding the sale or transfer. This can typically be done online or through the mail, depending on the options available on the Rhode Island DMV web page. Finally, the seller should remove their license plates from the vehicle, as these are not transferred with the vehicle. Keeping these steps in mind will help facilitate a smooth transaction.