Last Updated on March 22, 2018 by Jason Mason
When buying a car in Maine, you must obtain certain required paperwork from the seller in order to register and title your vehicle. If you buy your car from a dealer, they will normally process the required paperwork on your behalf. However, if you buy the car from a private seller, you will need to visit the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to register and title the car in your name. Continue reading this article to get more information about the paperwork required when buying a car in Maine.
Maine Vehicle Paperwork
You must get the required paperwork from the seller to help you register and title your car. Generally, you will need:
- A bill of sale.
- A written copy of the seller’s deposit policy. If you are purchasing a car in installments.
- A Notice of Transfer and Release from Liability.
- Certificate of Title (blue title application from seller).
Buying from a Maine Car Dealer
If you are buying a car from a dealer, you must obtain a Warranty of Inspectability in addition to the above listed documents. This document proves that an inspection was done on the vehicle within the last 60 days.
Transfer vehicle Title in Maine
The seller needs to sign the vehicle title over to you. To expedite this process, you must fill and submit an application for a Maine certificate of title to the nearest BMV location. Your application must be accompanied by original vehicle title signed over to you by the seller. You will also need to pay $33 title transfer fee and $10 for expedited service.
Register the Vehicle in Maine
To register your newly purchased car in Maine, you will first need to:
- Pay the excise tax at any local municipal office and obtain the receipt.
- Get a general vehicle inspection (smog certificate for Cumberland County residents).
You may be able to complete the registration process at your local municipal office, if that office is participating in Maine’s registration program. Otherwise visit your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles branch office. To complete the registration, you will need:
- A signed bill of sale.
- The vehicle title if the car is a 1995 model or newer.
- Proof of insurance.
- The white and yellow copies of both excise tax receipt and registration application.
- To pay $35 registration fee.
Vehicle History Reports
A vehicle history report is not needed when registering or titling the car in your name. However, this document is required when purchasing a car. Based on the VIN, you can check:
- The vehicle’s accident history.
- Ownership history.
- Repair history.
- Odometer reading.
This report can protect you from becoming a victim of car frauds.
Maine’s Lemon Law
Maine has a lemon law that covers new cars only. This law covers vehicles that have 18,000 miles or fewer or vehicles within 3 years of delivery date from the seller or whichever comes first. If you believe you have bought a lemon, take your vehicle to the manufacturer to have it repaired. If the repair fails after a number of attempts, request the manufacturer to give you a refund or a vehicle replacement.
