How to Check the Status of Release of Liability
When you sell a vehicle, most states require that you notify the appropriate state agency--usually the department or division of motor vehicles (DMV)--regarding the sale. Filing the required notice is important to release you from liability for any future operation of the vehicle for such things as parking or traffic violations, registration fees or accidents involving the vehicle. If you've sent the notice to the DMV, but are uncertain whether it was received or properly recorded, there are steps you can take to check on the status of the release of liability.
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Instructions
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Review your records for a copy of the release of liability you filed with the DMV. Double-check the information on the release of liability regarding the vehicle's identification number (VIN) and license plate number. If any of this information was missing or incorrect, the DMV would not be able to process the release.
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Go to a DMV field office to check on the status of the release of liability. You will have to provide adequate proof of identity and your interest in the vehicle before the information will be provided.
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File a written record request with the DMV. There should be a special form for this type of request and most DMVs make these forms available online. You may even be able to file the form online. In the event that you need a copy of this record for use in a court proceeding, make sure you request a certified copy of the record that is suitable for filing with the court.
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If title to the vehicle wasn't transferred to the buyer and you cannot verify that the release of liability you sent to the DMV was accepted, file another release of liability without delay.
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Tips & Warnings
If you receive a registration renewal notice from the DMV for a vehicle you no longer own, that is a good indication that your release of liability was not received by the DMV or was not processed due to missing or illegible information. File another one.
Although you would expect the buyer to file the necessary documents to transfer title of the vehicle to his name from yours, don't rely on this happening as your protection from future liability regarding the vehicle.
Anyone, including the buyer, can file the release of liability for you, but it is better practice to do it yourself to lessen the likelihood of future problems.
Always keep a copy of the notice of release of liability you filed with the DMV for your records.
