Buying a Used Car in Alaska

When buying a used car in Alaska through a private sale, checking the vehicle title thoroughly is one of the most critical steps in the process. Unlike buying from a dealer, private party sales place more responsibility on the buyer to ensure that the paperwork is accurate, the title is valid, and the transaction is legal.

This checklist walks you through the essential things to verify on the title document before completing the sale.

Why the Title Matters

A vehicle’s title is legal proof of ownership. If the title is missing, damaged, or inaccurate, you may not be able to register the car, sell it in the future, or legally drive it. In Alaska, all vehicles must have a properly transferred title before the buyer can register the car in their name.

1. Confirm the Seller is the Legal Owner

Before anything else, confirm that the name on the front of the title matches the seller’s government-issued ID. If someone other than the person listed is selling the car, you’ll need to ask for a properly executed Power of Attorney or reassigned title.

If the title is in more than one name, check if both signatures are required. For example, titles that say "AND" between names need both owners to sign off, while "OR" means only one.

2. Check for Liens

Look at the section labeled "Lienholder" or "Security Interest." If a bank or lender is listed and the lien isn’t marked as released, the seller may still owe money on the vehicle. You should never finalize the sale or transfer until the lien is officially released.

Learn more about how to handle lien releases in Alaska if this applies to your situation.

3. Inspect the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The VIN on the title must match exactly with the VIN etched into the vehicle’s dashboard (visible through the windshield), and often also found on the driver’s door sticker or engine block.

If the numbers don’t match, it could signal anything from a clerical error to potential vehicle title fraud. Here's what you need to know about spotting and avoiding Alaska title scams.

4. Review the Title’s Condition

Ensure the title is original—not a copy or digital image—and is in good condition. If it’s damaged or illegible, you should request that the seller applies for a replacement first. Here's how to replace a lost or damaged Alaska title.

Be wary of altered documents. Crossed-out information, white-out, or handwriting corrections are red flags and may cause the DMV to reject the title during transfer.

5. Verify the Title Type

Check if the title is clean, rebuilt, or salvage. A salvage title means the car was declared a total loss by an insurance company at some point. You may still be able to title and register a salvage car in Alaska, but it involves additional steps and inspections. Here's a guide to titling a vehicle with a salvage certificate in Alaska.

Make sure you're comfortable with the risks of owning a salvage or rebuilt vehicle, as it can affect resale value, insurance, and safety.

6. Confirm Odometer Reading

Most Alaska vehicle titles include a section for odometer disclosure. Make sure the mileage recorded on the title is consistent with the car's current odometer reading. If there’s a major discrepancy, it could indicate tampering.

Both buyer and seller must sign this section if the vehicle is under 10 years old. Skipping this step may delay your title transfer with the DMV.

7. Seller’s Signature and Buyer’s Information

Ensure the seller signs the title in the correct section (usually the back) and includes the date of sale, the selling price, and your legal name and address. Mistakes here are one of the most common title transfer errors in Alaska.

Avoid using white-out or crossing out mistakes; the DMV may reject the title, requiring a corrected version or additional documentation.

8. Ask for a Bill of Sale

While not always required for title transfer, a Bill of Sale is highly recommended for your records. It should include:

• Full names and addresses of buyer and seller
• VIN
• Purchase price
• Date of sale
• Signatures of both parties

If you plan to register the car immediately, you may also need this to prove sales tax eligibility or exemption.

After the Sale: What’s Next?

Once you’ve verified everything and received a signed title, submit the necessary documents to the DMV to complete the title transfer. You can follow this guide on how to transfer a vehicle title in Alaska for step-by-step instructions.

Also, consider checking your vehicle for required equipment standards under Alaska law before hitting the road—especially if you're buying an older car or one modified by previous owners.

By taking the time to carefully inspect the title before purchasing a used car in Alaska, you’ll protect yourself from future headaches and legal trouble. Private sales can be a great deal, but they also come with more risk and responsibility. Always verify ownership, avoid title errors, and make sure all information is complete and accurate before you hand over your money.