Free Kentucky Car Bill of Sale
Kentucky car sales run on a title the seller signs in front of a notary, with Form TC 96-182 where required. The 6% motor vehicle usage tax is based on the NADA retail value unless a notarized Affidavit of Total Consideration attests the selling price — preventing under-declaration. The title transfer at the county clerk must happen within 15 days of the sale.
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Kentucky Car Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
Kentucky charges 6% motor vehicle usage tax, based on the NADA retail value unless the selling price is attested in a notarized Affidavit of Total Consideration (Form 71A100 or TC 96-182) and is at least 50% of the trade-in value. Buyers cannot simply under-declare the price.
Inspection Requirements
Kentucky does not require a state safety inspection or emissions test at time of sale.
Kentucky Car Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Where required (for example, a title issued before 2000 or a vehicle from out of state), complete Form TC 96-182 with VIN, year, make, model, odometer and sale price.
- Seller signs the back of the title in front of a notary.
- Buyer takes the notarized title (plus TC 96-182 where required) and proof of Kentucky insurance to the county clerk's office within 15 days.
- Buyer pays 6% usage tax (on NADA retail value, or on the price attested in a notarized Affidavit of Total Consideration) + title fee + registration.
Common Pitfalls
- The 15-day deadline is strict — missing it results in a penalty.
- KY usage tax is assessed on NADA retail value unless the price is attested in a notarized affidavit — you can't under-declare.
- Title transfers happen at the county clerk's office, not a central Transportation Cabinet office.
- Odometer disclosure required on vehicles of model year 2011 or newer.
Pro Tip
KY car: notarized title (+ TC 96-182 where required) + county clerk + 15-day deadline + 6% usage tax (NADA value unless a notarized affidavit).