by Armando Martinez
If you're planning to buy a car from a private owner in North Dakota, you'll need to register it with the state before you can legally drive it on the road. Registering a car bought from a private owner sale in North Dakota is a simple process, but it does require some paperwork and fees. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps needed to register your car in North Dakota.
Step 1: Obtain a Bill of Sale
The first thing you'll need to do is obtain a Seller’s Certificate and Bill of Sale (NDDOT form SFN 2888) signed and notarized by the seller.You may download this form from the NDDOT at https://www.dot.nd.gov/forms/SFN02888.pdf. This document should include information such as the car's make, model, year, and VIN, as well as the purchase price and the names and addresses of both the buyer and seller. Make sure the bill of sale is signed by both parties.
Step 2: Obtain the Car Title
Next, you'll need to obtain the car title from the seller. Make sure that the title is signed over to you and that all fields are properly filled out. If there are any liens on the car, make sure they are paid off before completing the sale. If the lienholder has not signed off on the title, make sure the lien has been paid off and contact the lienholder to have them complete a Release of Lien By Legal Owner form SFN 2876. You may download this form by visiting https://www.dot.nd.gov/forms/sfn02876.pdf.
Step 3: Obtain Insurance
Before you can register your car in North Dakota, you'll need to obtain insurance. The state requires a minimum amount of liability coverage, which includes $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
Step 4: Get Your Car Inspected
A motor vehicle must pass an emissions and safety inspection before it can be registered in North Dakota. Inspections must be performed at a state qualified business registered with the ND secretary of state to offer motor vehicle repairs to the public.During a safety inspection, the inspector examines numerous components of a vehicle to ensure it meets minimum NDDOT safety requirements. The inspector will complete a Certificate of Vehicle Inspection form SFN 2486, and provide it to you for submission along with your application for title and registration. You can download this form by visiting https://www.dot.nd.gov/forms/sfn02486.pdf.
Failure to get a vehicle inspected by the due date will result in a vehicle's registration being blocked until the vehicle is inspected. For more information about NDDOT Inspection requirements visit https://www.dot.nd.gov/divisions/mv/docs/faq-Inspections.pdf.
Step 5: Complete the Title and Registration Application
Once you have the Seller Certificate and bill of sale, title, proof of insurance, and your Certificate of Vehicle Inspection, you'll need to complete the application for Certificate of Title & Registration of Vehicle form SFN 2872. You can obtain this form online at https://www.dot.nd.gov/forms/sfn02872.pdf or from your local Department of Transportation (DOT) office. The application will ask for information such as the car's make, model, year, and VIN, as well as your personal information and insurance details. If the car you purchased is less than nine (9) model years old, you will also need to complete and sign a Damage Disclosure Statement form (SFN 18609) which can be downloaded by visiting https://www.dot.nd.gov/forms/sfn18609.pdf.
Step 6: Make Your Reservation at the DMV
All first time vehicle registrations must be done in person at a local NDDOT office. To Schedule your appointment you can call the NDDOT at 1-855-633-6835 or online at https://nqa3.nemoqappointment.com/Booking/Booking/Index/5KIDD4bc. If no appointments show online you should call your local NDDOT branch office to see if an appointment time is available for you. To find your local office contact information visit https://www.dot.nd.gov/dotnet2/view/mvsites.aspx.
Step 7: Submit Your Documents and Fees
Once you have completed the title & registration application and other required documents, , at your scheduled appointment, you'll need to submit your documents and pay fees to the NDDOT. These fees include a title fee, registration fee, and any applicable excise tax (applies only if your car was previously titled in the states Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, or any Canadian Province). The exact fees will vary depending on where you live, the type of license plate you choose (standard or personalized), your car’s age, and value of the car. Certain exemptions apply to tribal and military vehicle owners, so make sure to check with the NDDOT to determine the total amount due by visiting https://www.dot.nd.gov/divisions/mv/vehicle.htm#creditandfees.
Step 8: Receive Your License Plate and Registration
After your application has been processed, you will receive your license plate, title, and registration in the mail. Make sure to keep these documents in a safe place, as you will need them to prove that your car is registered and legally allowed to be driven on North Dakota roads.
Conclusion
Registering a car bought in a private owner car sale in North Dakota is a simple process that requires some paperwork and fees. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car is properly registered and legally allowed to be driven in the state. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your local NDDOT office for assistance or visit https://www.dot.nd.gov/divisions/mv/vehicle.htm#vehicleregistration for more information.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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