North Carolina Bill Of Sale

I am interested in buying a car from a private person. When I talked to the owner, he said the title is lost and it offers a notarized bill of sale. Can I register and Tittle car with only a bill of sale?

I would strongly advise against it. If (and it's a big IF), it is indeed the owner, then he can ask the DMV for a title "Lost" and get a new one. If he is not willing to do that, then there is always the possibility that the car is not really his to sell. The signature of a notary on a document certifies only that the person signing the document is proved to the notary that they had identification showing they were, who they said they were. notarial seal does not prove or certify that person owned or had the right to sell the car. Without a clear title, signed by the person named as owner, you will not be able to title or register the vehicle, and if it turns out to be stolen, you could be charged with possession of stolen property or reception.

For me it's real simple - if he wants to sell the car legitimately - ask to obtain a duplicate title - otherwise you're setting yourself up for the problems - I can see now Judge Judy ... If it has no "good" proof of ownership, how do you know that it's really possible to sell? You could think of headaches and major problems, not to mention losing the money you just put on the car, to know you still do not own because you do not buy from the owner but a crook. He arrived in North Carolina also ... Protect yourself. If it is legitimate, it must be prepared to request a duplicate to the DMV! (Also, as the notarial deed of sale shall not prevail in court, this is not proof of ownership!)

No, the owner must apply for a duplicate title and interest of exit to the title, then you can transfer to your name. Do not buy without the title in hand, you have a car that you can not title or drive, or buy the tabs for.