1. Complete the Bill of Sale: Both the seller and you (the buyer) must sign a Bill of Sale, which is a legal document that transfers ownership of the vehicle.
2. Title Transfer: The seller must sign the title over to you. The title needs to be signed in the presence of a notary public and includes:
- The seller's signature and printed name.
- Buyer's name and address.
- Date of the sale.
- Purchase price.
- Vehicle mileage (if applicable).
- Seller's odometer disclosure.
3. Assignment of Title: You need to complete the Application for Certificate of Title (Form VSD 190) on the reverse side of the title.
- Fill in your personal information, including name, address, and phone number.
- Specify the type of title (regular or salvage).
- Enter the license plate number if the car is already registered in Illinois.
4. Fees and Taxes: You'll need to pay various fees and taxes when registering your vehicle, including title transfer fees, sales tax, and vehicle registration fees. The exact fees vary depending on the county in which you reside and the vehicle's characteristics.
5. Vehicle Inspection: Some counties in Illinois may require a safety inspection before you can register your vehicle. Check with your local DMV office to determine if an inspection is necessary.
6. Visit the Secretary of State (SOS) Office: Once you have completed all the paperwork, paid any applicable fees and taxes, you must visit a local SOS office to finalize the title transfer and registration process.
7. Receive License Plates and Registration: After your application is processed and approved, you will receive your license plates and vehicle registration, typically within a few weeks.
8. Display Plates and Registration: Affix the license plates to your vehicle and keep the registration document in your vehicle as proof of ownership and registration.
Remember to retain the original signed title and any other relevant paperwork for future reference. These documents serve as proof of ownership and transfer. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact your local Illinois SOS office for further information and guidance.