Pickup-day paperwork checklist

Before pickup

• Title, in your nameThe name must match your photo ID. If two owners are listed with “and”, both usually need to sign.
• Lien release (if the loan is paid off)Some states print it on the title; otherwise it’s a letter from the lender.
• Payoff quote (if there’s still a loan)Ask for a 10-day payoff, not today’s balance. See selling with a loan.
• Photo IDDriver’s license or state ID.
• Every key and fobIncluding the valet key and spare.
• Personal items outGlovebox, console, trunk, under seats, toll transponder, garage remote.
• Notary, if your state requires itA handful of states require the seller’s signature on the title to be notarized. Check your DMV’s title page.

At pickup

Per Peddle’s pickup guidance, the driver checks that the car matches your description, you sign the title where they show you, and they hand you a check. A few things to get right:

• Don’t pre-fill the buyer section. Let the driver guide you. A wrong entry can void the title and send you to the DMV for a duplicate.
• Write the odometer reading where the title asks for it, if your title has that field.
• Get a receipt or bill of sale with the date, time, VIN and buyer’s name. Take a photo of the signed title before it leaves.
• Check the check. Confirm the amount matches the offer you accepted before you hand over keys.

After the truck leaves

Three things, in this order: remove or deal with your plates, file your state’s release of liability, then cancel insurance. The details vary a lot by state. Our after-you-sell guide has the specifics for California, Texas, Florida, New York and more.

Questions

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with your state DMV before you sign.