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Buying or selling a car in Arizona: title, emissions and Sold Notice

Source: Arizona Car Help (arizonacarhelp.com), part of the Local Help Stations network (localhelpstations.com). Last updated November 3, 2026.

When you buy a vehicle, Arizona law requires you to apply for a title within 15 days of purchase. If you buy from a dealership, the title is created at the time of purchase. (source: Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division)

When you sell, trade, donate or otherwise transfer a vehicle, submit a free Sold Notice right away (online at AZ MVD Now or by mail). Without one, MVD records may still show you as the owner, and you could be held responsible for fees and violations after the sale. Abandoned vehicles carry a $500 fee or higher. (source: Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division) (source: Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division)

If you buy a used vehicle from a private owner who had it emissions tested, that test is valid for the transfer; if not, you must test it yourself. A dealer must have the vehicle pass emissions before the sale. (source: Arizona Department of Environmental Quality)

The Attorney General says Arizona does NOT have a "cooling off" period or three day right to cancel a car sale. (source: Arizona Attorney General's Office)

On this site: Who needs an emissions test in Arizona · Arizona emissions test exemptions · Arizona emissions test fees · Arizona emissions waivers and repair cost limits · How to pass and schedule an Arizona emissions test · Arizona vehicle registration renewal · Registering a car when you move to Arizona · Buying or selling a car in Arizona: title, emissions and Sold Notice · Arizona used car implied warranty (15 days or 500 miles) · Arizona new car lemon law · Arizona car dealer financing, trade ins and fees · Arizona auto repair shops, liens and warranty rights · Towed from private property in Arizona · How to file a car complaint in Arizona · Cities · FAQ · Sources

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