Selling or junking a car in Oregon

How do I sign over a car title in Oregon?

Sign and date the back of the title or a Bill of Sale (Form 501). If there was a loan, the lienholder must sign the front of the title or give a signed release. For model year 2011 or newer vehicles under 20 years old, write the odometer reading on the back of the title, and both seller and buyer sign. DMV's selling steps do not include notarization. The buyer must apply for title within 30 days. Late fees are $25 at 31 to 60 days and $50 after 60 days.

Can I sell or junk a car without a title in Oregon?

For model year 2011 or newer vehicles under 20 years old, you must get a replacement title before selling if you lost it. For 2010 and older vehicles, DMV lets the title applicant mark the 'Replacement Oregon Title' box on the title application instead. You can't sell, donate or gift a vehicle with an unpaid loan. Under ORS 819.040, a crusher or shredder may accept a vehicle only from a certified dismantler, or from a person with a salvage title, a DMV compliance form or a certificate of sale.

How do I get a duplicate title in Oregon?

Mail or bring an Application for Replacement Title (Form 515) to DMV. Oregon has no separate duplicate fee; the regular title fee applies. For gas passenger vehicles that is $101 (0-19 MPG), $106 (20-39 MPG) or $116 (40+ MPG). Processing takes about 1 week.

Do I need to file a release of liability in Oregon?

Notify DMV of the sale within 10 days using DMV2U online, giving the buyer's name and address. DMV notes the sale on your record, but you stay listed as owner until the buyer transfers the title.

What do I do with the plates after selling a car in Oregon?

DMV says you may remove your license plates before selling. By statute (ORS 803.530), plates stay with the vehicle they are assigned to unless DMV approves a transfer to another vehicle (with an application and transfer fee). If you wreck or dismantle a registered vehicle yourself, return the plates to DMV with the title and registration card within 30 days (ORS 819.010).

What happens to the title when a car is junked or salvaged in Oregon?

Under ORS 819.010, an owner who wrecks or dismantles a vehicle must notify DMV at least 7 days before starting. They must send DMV the registration card, title and plates within 30 days. If the vehicle can be seen from a public road, the work must be finished within 30 days. Licensed dismantlers are exempt. DMV then cancels the title and may issue a proof-of-compliance form. For a totaled vehicle, the title must go to DMV or the insurer within 30 days of the declared loss. The salvage title fee is $27. Oregon won't title a vehicle another state has declared junk or non-repairable.

What can I do about an abandoned vehicle on my property in Oregon?

You can't claim ownership of a vehicle abandoned on your property. Under ORS 98.830, the property owner or lawful possessor may have a tower remove it. First put a notice on the vehicle saying it will be towed, leave it on for at least 72 hours, and then sign a form giving the vehicle description, location and a statement that these steps were followed. DMV has no form for this, and a handwritten notice to the tow company is fine. DMV can't release the owner's name or address.

Official sources

1. Oregon DMV - Buying or Selling a Vehicle
2. Oregon DMV - Vehicle Titles and Registration
3. Oregon DMV - Vehicle Fees
4. Oregon DMV - Abandoned, Stolen, Totaled Vehicles and Title Brands
5. ORS Chapter 803 (incl. 803.530 plates remain with vehicle)
6. ORS Chapter 819 (819.010 destruction of vehicle; 819.040 illegal salvage)
7. ORS Chapter 98 (98.830 towing abandoned vehicle from private property)

This guide summarizes public rules and is not legal advice. Rules change; confirm with Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (Oregon DMV), Oregon Department of Transportation before you sell.