How to Sell Your Car Safely in Alberta

The safest way to sell a car in Alberta is to deal with a buyer who documents the sale: a signed bill of sale, your plates removed, and a Notice of Disposition to release your liability. The biggest risk on the other side is the “curber” — and knowing the red flags keeps you out of trouble.

What is a curber?

Alberta’s motor-vehicle regulator, AMVIC, warns consumers about curbers — unlicensed, illegal sellers who pose as ordinary private individuals while selling vehicles for profit. AMVIC notes curbers often deal in stolen, damaged, or odometer-tampered cars and tend to vanish when problems come up. Their whole model depends on avoiding a clear, documented transaction.

Red flags to watch for

• The other party avoids paperwork or pushes you to skip the bill of sale.
• They will not give a real name, phone number, or straight answers.
• They want the licence plates left on the vehicle.
• They pressure you to move fast with no record of the sale.

How to verify a buyer

A trustworthy buyer is easy to reach, gives a clear business name and phone number, and is happy to complete the bill of sale with you and explain what happens to your plates and registration. If a buyer is reluctant to document the sale, treat that as a reason to walk away.

What a documented sale looks like with us

We are a cash-for-cars buyer focused on transparency — not a licensed dealer, and we do not claim to be. What we offer instead is a fully documented sale: a signed Alberta bill of sale, your plates removed and kept by you, and the Notice of Disposition explained so liability leaves you on the sale date. Every step is on the record. Sell to a documented buyer — meet Sam.

General consumer information about selling safely in Alberta, not legal advice. “Curber” guidance reflects AMVIC consumer education. We make no licensing or AMVIC-registration claim.