What can a dealer issue to document the sale of a vehicle before permanent registration is complete?

The correct answer is a temporary certificate of ownership. This document is issued by the dealer to provide proof of sale and ownership before the vehicle's permanent registration is finalized. It serves as an interim measure that allows the buyer to operate the vehicle legally while they await the official registration documents from the DMV.

This temporary certificate contains important information such as the vehicle identification number (VIN), buyer and seller details, and may specify the duration for which it is valid. It is essential for both the dealer and the buyer, as it fulfills legal requirements and protects both parties during the transition period.

Other types of documentation, such as a temporary registration document or a sales receipt, while helpful and sometimes related to the vehicle sale process, do not specifically serve the same purpose in documenting ownership transfer temporarily as effectively as the temporary certificate of ownership does. The ownership transfer agreement may also relate to the transaction, but it typically lacks the formal recognition and specific legal status attributed to the certificate issued by the dealer.