Michigan: notifying the DMV after you sell

Michigan doesn't require you to file anything when you sell. You're protected by keeping a record of the sale for 18 months.

At a glance

• Required? No. Keep your own record of the sale instead.
• Deadline: None for you
• Form: None
• Where to file: Nothing to file

What to do

1. Sign the title over to Plug.
2. Remove your plates before pickup.
3. Keep a photocopy of the signed title, or Plug's buyer information, for 18 months.

Your license plates

• Remove your plates before pickup. They're yours, not the car's.
• Transfer them to another vehicle or destroy them.

Keep for your records

• A photocopy of the signed title (keep it for 18 months)
• Your Bill of Sale

Official source

Michigan Secretary of State: Title and registration

← Back to all states · Related: After the sale: insurance, registration and plates

DMV rules change. Last reviewed October 2026. Check the Michigan Secretary of State site for the latest requirements.