How to Title a Private Car Sale in Missouri

Step by step

1. 1

   Get the title signed over

   The seller signs the certificate of title over to you. Complete an Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form 3019) if it applies, and get a notarized lien release (Form 4809) if a lien is shown. The seller’s plates do not go with the car.

2. 2

   Get the inspections you need

   A safety inspection no more than 60 days old is required unless the vehicle is in its first ten years after the model year and has under 150,000 miles. In St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, and Jefferson counties, you also need an emissions inspection.

   If the title is from another state, you need an ID/odometer inspection; a safety inspection counts.

3. 3

   Fill out Form 108

   Sign the Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108). For new plates, bring a paid personal property tax receipt or a statement of non-assessment for the previous year and proof of insurance.

4. 4

   Title within 30 days

   You have 30 days from the purchase. The penalty is $25 on the 31st day and $25 more for each 30 days after, up to $200.

5. 5

   Pay the tax and fees

   The tax is 4.225% plus the local rate where you live (1.0% to 7.263% on the October to December 2026 chart). If you sold a vehicle within 180 days before or after this purchase, its sale price is credited; bring the bill of sale or Form 5049.

   The title is $8.50 plus $9 processing. Plates are set by taxable horsepower ($33.25 a year for 24 to 35 horsepower, with processing). Electric vehicles also owe the yearly $150 alternative fuel decal, and plug-in hybrids $75.