Selling Your Car in Quebec? Here’s the Paperwork to Prepare

You’ve agreed on the price. Now comes the question: “What do I need to bring?” The paperwork to sell a car in Quebec depends on who’s buying and who owns the vehicle. Get that sorted before meeting up, so you’re not chasing documents while someone’s waiting for the keys.

The aim is to arrive prepared, understand who completes each step and leave with records of the transaction.

Check whose name is on the registration

Have your vehicle registration and identification available. Check that the car’s details match the car being sold and identify who is authorized to approve the sale. Company ownership, co-ownership or a lease can require additional coordination.

Ask the buyer what information they need before the appointment and how it should be shared. You don’t need to post personal documents publicly to request an initial offer.

Check the right SAAQ process

Check the current SAAQ guidance for your transaction rather than following instructions intended for another province. Confirm whether you’re dealing with an individual, a vehicle merchant or another type of business, and what registration or transfer steps apply.

The buyer should explain what they will handle and what you must do. If the explanation is unclear, resolve it before handing over the car. Don’t assume that signing a private agreement completes every registration requirement.

Have the loan details and extras ready

If there’s financing, have current lender information ready and confirm the proposed settlement process. If the vehicle is leased, clarify the leasing company’s requirements before treating it as a car you can simply sell yourself.

Make a list of keys, winter wheels, charging equipment and other items included in the agreed price. It helps prevent a last-minute disagreement about what stays with the vehicle.

Keep copies when the sale is done

Review the sale documents for the correct vehicle, price and agreed conditions. Keep copies, along with the payment details and transfer confirmation relevant to your transaction. Ask how any remaining administrative step will be confirmed.

Consult the SAAQ’s guidance for business transactions for current requirements. When selling to Car Buyers Montreal, we’ll discuss the documents needed for your situation. Start with your car’s details.