Free New York Car Bill of Sale
New York uses MV-912 as its Bill of Sale and MV-82 as the title application, filed at county DMV offices (or online for some transactions). New York has one of the highest effective vehicle tax rates in the country — 4% state plus 3–4.875% local, reaching 8.875% in NYC. Annual safety and emissions inspection is required.
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New York Car Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Sales Tax Details
4% state sales tax PLUS local county tax (3%–4.875%). Effective rates range 7% (most upstate counties) to 8.875% (NYC). Total tax in NYC on a $20,000 car: ~$1,775.
Inspection Requirements
New York requires annual safety AND emissions inspection for most vehicles. Inspection must be valid at transfer. Cost ~$21 safety + $11–$27 emissions.
New York Car Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Seller ensures current NY safety + emissions inspection (annual, ~$32–$48 total).
- Complete MV-912 (Bill of Sale) with VIN, odometer, sale price, and both parties' signatures.
- Seller completes odometer and damage disclosure on NY title.
- Seller signs title over to buyer and keeps a copy.
- Seller removes license plates (New York sellers keep plates and transfer to next vehicle or surrender to DMV).
- Buyer completes MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application) at a county DMV within 10 days for registration (30 days for title).
- Buyer pays 4% state tax + local county tax (3%–4.875%), title fee, registration fee.
- NYC/Long Island residents pay highest effective rates — factor 8.625%–8.875% into negotiations.
Common Pitfalls
- Leaving plates on the sold vehicle — New York requires sellers to REMOVE plates (unlike many states). Plates transfer to the seller's next car or go back to DMV.
- Missing inspection at transfer: NY requires current inspection sticker, and many counties won't process title transfer without it.
- Underestimating NYC/Long Island tax rates: 8.875% means a $30,000 car costs $2,663 in tax alone.
- Missing odometer AND damage disclosure — New York title has TWO disclosures, not just odometer.
Pro Tip
New York quirks: remove your plates, file MV-912, and brace for the tax rate (especially downstate). Annual inspection must be current. Beyond that, it's a standard private sale.