How to Title a Private Car Sale in Tennessee

Step by step

1. 1

   Get a properly signed title

   The seller signs the title over to you. Bring the valid certificate of title, properly assigned, and an odometer disclosure statement if one applies.

2. 2

   Compare the price with the car’s value

   If the price is under 75% of the value in a pricing guide such as NADA, you and the seller complete the Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers. Tax is then figured on the price you paid. Without the affidavit or an appraisal, tax is due on the full value.

3. 3

   Go to your county clerk

   Title the car at the county clerk’s office with proof of identification and proof of residency. If you are moving your own plate to this car, bring a copy of its current registration.

4. 4

   Pay the sales tax

   The state tax is 7% of the full price. The local rate where you live, 2.00% to 2.75%, applies only to the first $1,600. A 2.75% state single article tax applies to the part from $1,600.01 to $3,200, so at most $44.

   On a $15,000 car: $1,050 state tax, $32 to $44 local tax, and $44 single article tax.

5. 5

   Pay the title and plate fees

   The title is $14 ($5.50 state and $8.50 county clerk), and noting a lien is $11. The standard plate is $26.50 a year ($19.50 for a motorcycle).

   All-electric vehicles add $200 ($274 for registrations in 2027), and hybrids and plug-in hybrids add $100. Many counties also charge a wheel tax.