: Since 2018, most passenger vehicles in Utah no longer require annual safety inspections for registration.
: Watch out for unlicensed dealers who pose as private sellers. Warning signs include meeting in neutral locations instead of a residence, insisting on cash-only deals, and the title not being in the seller's name. 2. Essential Pre-Purchase Steps
: If the vehicle currently has a Utah title, the buyer and seller may be able to use the Utah Person to Person (UPP) Online Title Transfer to start the process without visiting a DMV office.
: Be prepared to pay a title fee (approx. $6.00), registration fees based on vehicle weight and age, and sales tax calculated on the purchase price. You can use the DMV Fee Estimator to calculate these costs. Buying and Selling Vehicles - DMV
Buying a used car in Utah requires navigating a "buyer beware" market where consumer protections like do not apply to used vehicles. Whether you are buying from a licensed dealer or a private seller, you bear the responsibility for verifying the vehicle's condition and ensuring all state registration requirements are met. 1. Where to Buy: Dealers vs. Private Sellers
: Salvage vehicles being rebuilt, first-time street-legal ATVs, and commercial vehicles still require safety checks.
: Utah dealers are licensed, bonded, and regulated. They handle most paperwork, including titling and registration, and often provide vehicle history reports. While prices may be higher, some offer limited warranties or certified pre-owned programs.
Because of Utah's "buyer beware" status, thorough due diligence is critical.