An Illinois motor vehicle bill of sale form designates the purchaser as the car’s new owner in conjunction with a title that officially transfers automobile ownership. This document validates the purchase, identifies the parties involved, and records the vehicle’s odometer reading, condition, and value at the time of the exchange. It also serves as evidence of the agreement between both parties, helps to protect their rights, and assists in fulfilling state registration and titling requirements.
An Illinois car bill of sale terminates the previous owner’s vehicle possession, transferring ownership to the buyer. As the new owner, the purchaser must adhere to state-mandated procedures, such as obtaining the vehicle’s registration and title and ensuring the car is road-ready. The buyer cannot request post-sale compensation from the seller unless they disclose known defects or issues.
Buyers should always use their best judgment when purchasing a vehicle. The individual should research and look beyond the documents or information the seller provides. They should consider the following steps before establishing an agreement to purchase.
The seller must follow the state-mandated steps when transferring ownership of the vehicle. Abiding by local law ensures that the previous owner removes their responsibility and does not receive fines or penalties.
After purchasing a vehicle, buyers have twenty (20) days to register and title it in their name. Incoming residents have thirty (30) days to obtain tags and plates. Drivers operating an unregistered vehicle can receive fines up to $90 per incident (§ 1010.330). Appointments occur through a Secretary of State (SOS) Driver Services Facility.
Individuals moving into Illinois from another state have ninety (90) days to transfer their license. The applicant can use their in-state driver’s license to prove their residency when registering or titling their vehicle.
First, applicants must make a driver’s license appointment. The type of meeting depends on their needs. Generally, the individual gives their previous unexpired license and payment to the office. Next, they must pass the required vision, written, and driving tests, then pay the required fees.
If the applicant passes the tests and provides the correct forms, the SOS gives them a temporary ninety (90) day license. The official card comes by mail within fifteen (15) days.
In-state vehicles must have a valid insurance policy. Uninsured drivers stopped by law enforcement can face fines up to $1000.
The individual’s insurance plan must cover $25,000 for the injury or death of one (1) person and $50,000 for the injury or death of two (2) or more people. In addition, it must include $20,000 worth of property damage per incident (§ 625 ILCS 5/7-601).
In 2005, Illinois established a law (625 ILCS 5/13C) mandating vehicle emissions inspections in certain municipalities. The mandate includes Cook, Dupage, and Lake counties.
Cars with the model year 1996 or newer must have their emissions tested biannually. Vehicles under four (4) years old do not need an inspection until they reach the age limit.
Counties determine their emissions testing renewal periods by the vehicle’s model year. Even model years correspond with even year testing and odd model years correlate with odd year testing.
Car owners must register at an SOS Facility or through the mail. The office has paper applications; however, residents can also download, print, and complete the online form. They must bring the application to the facility or mail it with other necessary documents and fees.
Illinois motor vehicle registration lasts for one (1) calendar year. The state recommends reapplying no later than thirty (30) days before the registration’s expiration date.
Residents must renew online, in-person, through the phone (866-545-9609), or by mail. Online renewals require the owner’s registration ID and PIN on the current registration card.
| Mailing Address: |
| Secretary of State Vehicle Services Department 501 S. 2nd St., Rm. 014 Springfield, IL 62756 |