Call Us: 
Email Us: 
Selling a vehicle in Oklahoma doesn't have to be a gamble. While the process is straightforward, the "Sooner State" has specific legal requirements, particularly regarding notarization and license plates, that can lead to significant liability if ignored.
In 2026, Service Oklahoma (SOK) continues to enforce strict standards to protect both buyers and sellers from fraud and post-sale disputes.
Whether you are offloading a family suv or a pickup truck used for heavy equipment hauling, this guide provides the official roadmap to navigate the process without the guesswork.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, we will answer:
What Oklahoma-specific rules create the most risk for private sellers?
How can sellers avoid common mistakes that lead to post-sale liability?
What actions officially release a seller from future responsibility?
Overview
Step 1: Secure Your Oklahoma Certificate of Title
In Oklahoma, the title is the ultimate proof of ownership. You cannot legally complete a private sale without it.
Notarization is Required: Unlike many other states, Oklahoma law requires that the seller's signature on the back of the title be notarized. Do not sign the title until you are in the presence of a Notary Public.
Electronic Titles: If you have an electronic title, you must use Form 718 (Bill of Sale of an Electronic Title). This document must be printed, completed, and notarized to serve as the legal transfer document.
Duplicate Title: If your original is missing, you must apply for an Oklahoma replacement title (Form 701-7) through Service Oklahoma for a fee of approximately $11.00.
Out-of-State Title: If you are selling a vehicle with an out-of-state title, the buyer will need a VIN inspection ($4.00 fee) at a licensed operator location to register it in Oklahoma.
Step 2: Accurate Odometer Disclosure
Transparency regarding mileage is mandated by federal and state law to prevent fraud.
The 20-Year Rule: For 2026, any vehicle model year 2011 or newer requires a completed odometer disclosure statement.
Exemptions: Vehicles manufactured in or before 2010, or those with a gross weight rating over 16,000 pounds, are generally exempt from the odometer reading requirement.
Step 3: The Oklahoma Bill of Sale
While the state does not strictly require an Oklahoma bill of sale to transfer a title, it is highly recommended for your records.
The 5-Day Rule: If you remove your license plates (as required), the buyer may operate the vehicle for up to ten calendar days without plates, provided they carry a notarized bill of sale in the car.
Affidavit of Facts: In complex situations, such as a name change or a family transfer, you may need an affidavit of facts to clarify the circumstances of the sale to Service Oklahoma.
Step 4: Specialized Equipment and Heavy Hauling
If your truck or trailer was used for heavy loads, providing the buyer with maintenance and safety logs ensures a smoother ride and builds trust.
Towing Setups: If the pickup truck features a gooseneck, fifth-wheel, or bumper pull setup, inspect the brackets, mount, and latch before the sale. Ensure the coupler connection and hitch ball are in good condition to prevent sway for the new owner.
Weight and Stability: Disclose the weight capacity and recommended tire pressure for livestock trailers or heavy equipment. Overloading can reduce stability and is a common cause of accidents when hauling more weight than the rear axle is designed to handle.
Gooseneck Setup: If the bed includes a gooseneck adapter or fixed bolting, ensure the pin and jaws are functional.
Step 5: Finalizing Liability and License Plates
The most common mistake Oklahoma sellers make is leaving their plates on the vehicle.
License Plate Removal: In Oklahoma, the license plate belongs to the owner, not the vehicle. You must remove your plates before the buyer drives away. You can then transfer these plates to a new car or surrender them for Oklahoma license plate renewal credit.
Notice of Transfer (Form 773): To fully protect yourself, file an optional notice of transfer with Service Oklahoma. For a $10.00 fee, this records the sale in the state’s system, releasing you from liability for future tickets or accidents.
Oklahoma Car Registration Fees (2026)
Buyers are responsible for the following standard registration fees based on the vehicle age:
Note: Commercial trucks and trailers have different fee structures based on laden weight.
Final Thoughts: Sell with Confidence
Selling your vehicle in Oklahoma requires following the rules to the letter. By ensuring your title is notarized, removing your license plates, and filing a notice of transfer, you ensure that your responsibility ends the moment the keys change hands.
Need to Move the Car After the Sale?
Once the paperwork is complete, the final step is getting the vehicle to its destination. AmeriFreight Auto Transport helps make car shipping simple, safe, and stress-free. We carefully vet carriers for FMCSA records before they handle your vehicle.
Get your free, no obligation quote now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to get the car title notarized when selling a vehicle in Oklahoma?
Yes. Oklahoma law requires the seller's signature on the certificate of title to be notarized for a valid transfer.
What do I need to do with the odometer reading when selling an older vehicle in Oklahoma?
If the vehicle is a 2011 model year or newer, you must disclose the mileage until it is 20 years old. Cars from 2010 or older are generally exempt.
Do I have to remove my license plate immediately after selling my car?
Yes. The plate stays with you, the seller. Removing it prevents you from being liable for the buyer's driving.
Are vehicle inspections or emissions tests required before a private car sale in Oklahoma?
No emissions tests are required, but a VIN inspection is required if the vehicle is being brought in with an out-of-state title.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and reflects common Oklahoma vehicle sale procedures as of 2026. Rules, fees, and requirements may change. Always confirm current details with Service Oklahoma before completing a vehicle sale.
