Selling a car in Minnesota comes down to two decisions: how you sell it, and getting the paperwork right so you’re not on the hook for the car after it’s gone. This guide compares your options and walks through the steps Minnesota requires.
Your options for selling a car in Minnesota
| Option | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Private sale | Getting the most money | Most work: listing, calls, test drives, and the paperwork yourself |
| Trade-in at a dealer | Convenience when buying your next car | Usually the lowest price |
| Instant cash buyer | Speed | A fast offer, often well below market |
| Consignment auction | Reaching many buyers without doing the selling yourself | Fees, and the price is set by bidding |
| Junk or scrap | Cars at the end of their life | Parts or scrap value only |
Selling through an online auction
In a consignment sale, an auction lists and sells your car for you, and you’re paid after the sale. In Minnesota, consignment sales must be handled by a licensed dealer. Remarket Space is a licensed Minnesota dealer and accepts consignments from individuals. Your car is inspected and listed with photos and video in front of thousands of registered bidders. To discuss selling your car, contact the team at (763) 202-7252 or reach out online.
Minnesota paperwork when you sell
- Sign over the title. Complete the seller section of the Minnesota title, including the sale date, price, buyer information and odometer reading. If there’s a loan on the car, the lien must be released first.
- Leave the plates on the car. In Minnesota, license plates stay with the vehicle and go to the buyer, unless they’re personalized or special plates you want to keep.
- Report the sale within 10 days. File the Report of Sale with Driver and Vehicle Services online, by mail using the stub on the title, or in person. This protects you from tickets and liability after the sale. Sales to a licensed dealer don’t need a separate report.
- Give the buyer the title. The buyer must apply for a new title in their name, paying Minnesota’s 6.875% motor vehicle sales tax.
- Cancel your insurance once the sale is complete and reported.
See Minnesota DVS’s guide to buying or selling a vehicle for the official requirements.
Tips to get a better price
- Know what it’s worth. Check real sale prices for your make and model, not just asking prices. Remarket Space publishes sold prices.
- Be upfront about problems. Honest disclosure builds trust and avoids disputes later.
- Gather your records. Maintenance history and recent repairs help buyers feel confident.
- Clean it. A detailed car photographs better and sells faster.
Frequently asked questions
Do I keep my license plates when I sell my car in Minnesota?
No. In Minnesota, plates stay with the vehicle, unless they’re personalized or special plates.
How long do I have to report the sale?
Report the sale to Driver and Vehicle Services within 10 days, online, by mail or in person.
Can I sell a car for someone else?
Selling cars on consignment requires a Minnesota dealer license. Remarket Space is licensed and handles consignments.
How many cars can I sell before I need a dealer license?
Five in a 12-month period. See flipping cars in Minnesota.
