Purchasing a vehicle from a private party

When purchasing a vehicle from a private party, the following paperwork is required:

A title, properly transferred from seller to buyer.

  • If title is with a lien holder, a bill of sale, insurance on the new vehicle, and proof of ownership from previous owner will allow you to receive a temporary registration/tag.
  • If the title is not a Colorado title, you will need to get a VIN verification. A VIN verification is available from any licensed Colorado emissions testing station, a licensed Colorado motor vehicle dealer, a Colorado law enforcement officer or the Arapahoe County Clerk's Motor Vehicle offices (weather pending). The fee for the VIN verification performed through the Arapahoe County Clerk's office will be $12.
  • Older Colorado titles may require a notary. If the title has a spot for a notary to sign, it needs to be notarized or a Statement of Transfer (in lieu of notarization of Colorado title), Form DR2445 needs to be filled out.
  • Notary may be required on out of state titles.

A Bill of Sale

  • A bill of sale is not necessary if the vehicle title provides a place to write the purchase price and the purchase date.

An odometer statement is required if the vehicle is newer then 10 years old.

  • Most titles provide a place for the odometer reading.
  • If the title does not provide such a place, contact the Motor Vehicle office at 303-795-4500 for information on obtaining the necessary odometer reading form (DR2173).

If you have a lien on the vehicle you will need a security agreement/loan agreement. The security agreement must list:

  • Description of the vehicle including year, make and VIN.
  • Total amount of payments (amount of lien)
  • Lien holder's name and address.
  • Original or legible fax copy

Proof of Insurance from Colorado on the new vehicle is required.

  • Valid insurance card
  • Declaration page
  • Binder/letter from an insurance company on company letter

A legible fax copy of one of the above documents on insurance company letterhead is acceptable.

Proof of enhanced emissions, if applicable, is required at registration.