Understanding Ohio's Regulations for Selling Junk Cars

Since Columbus Junk Cars Express, selling your junk car in Ohio doesn’t just mean handing over your keys and collecting cash—there are legal steps to follow to protect yourself and ensure a smooth transaction. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the state requirements when selling a junk car in Ohio, so you stay compliant and avoid any surprises.

Columbus Junk Cars Express

3/29/20252 min read

1. You Must Have the Vehicle Title 📝

In Ohio, the car title is the legal proof that you own the vehicle.

✅ The title must be in your name.
✅ If there's a lien (loan), it must be cleared before selling.
✅ You must sign the Assignment of Ownership section on the back of the title.

💡 Pro Tip: If you've lost your title, request a replacement from the Ohio BMV before selling. At Columbus Junk Cars Express, we help guide you through this step.

2. Fill Out the Title Properly ✍️

One of the biggest legal mistakes is signing the title incorrectly.

🚫 Do not cross out anything or use white-out.
✅ Fill in the buyer’s name and mileage (if required).
✅ Both buyer and seller must sign and date the title.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep a copy or photo of the completed title for your records!

3. Remove Your License Plates 🚘

License plates stay with the owner—not the vehicle.

✅ Take your plates off before the car is towed or sold.
✅ Return them to your local BMV or transfer them to another vehicle.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t forget this step—leaving plates behind could lead to tickets or toll charges in your name.

4. Cancel Registration and Insurance 📋

After you sell your junk car:

✅ Contact your insurance provider and cancel the policy.
✅ Notify the Ohio BMV that your vehicle is no longer in your name.
✅ Request a Seller’s Affidavit if needed for additional protection.

💡 Pro Tip: Always get a bill of sale as proof you’ve transferred ownership.

5. Sell to a Licensed Junk Car Buyer ✔️

Don’t just sell to anyone with a tow truck.

✅ Junk car buyers in Ohio must be licensed and follow environmental regulations.
✅ Check if the buyer has a physical address and good reviews.
✅ Get everything in writing—avoid verbal agreements.

✅ At Columbus Junk Cars Express, we are fully licensed and handle every legal step with you.

Why Trust Columbus Junk Cars Express?

✔ Licensed, local, and experienced in Ohio junk car laws
✔ We help with paperwork and title transfer
✔ Free same-day towing
✔ Fast cash with no hidden fees
✔ A trusted name in Columbus

📍 Address: 3550 Groveport East Rd, Columbus, OH, 43207
📞 Phone: (614) 440-1222
🌐 Website: Columbus Junk Cars Express

✅ Stay compliant. Stay protected. Sell your junk car the right way—call us today!