What must a dealer do if they want to sell a car to a retail customer?

To sell a car to a retail customer, it is essential for a dealer to obtain the title in their name first. This step is crucial because the title is the legal document that proves ownership. Without the dealer having the title, they cannot legally transfer ownership of the vehicle to the customer. It establishes their legal right to sell the vehicle and ensures that the transaction is valid.

Obtaining the title also serves to protect the interests of both the dealer and the customer. It ensures that the vehicle is free of liens and that the dealer is selling a vehicle that they legally own. This process is a foundation of proper vehicle sales practices and is mandated by law to ensure transparent and legitimate transactions within the motor vehicle industry.

While there are responsibilities regarding inspections, warranties, and registration, these are secondary steps that typically follow the ownership transfer process and are not prerequisites for the dealer to initiate a sale.