How to Change the Title of Your Car

What you need to do to change your car's title

Changing your car's title means updating the official ownership document at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. You do this when you buy a used car, add or remove an owner's name, pay off a loan, or correct information on the existing title. The process differs by state, but most require you to submit the current title, a completed process form, proof of ownership, and a fee — usually between $15 and $100.

The fastest way is to visit your local DMV office in person with all required documents. Some states now allow online title transfers for certain situations, and a few accept mail-in requests, but in-person visits remain the most reliable option because staff can spot missing information before you leave. If you buy a car from a dealer, they often handle the title transfer for you, though you still need to sign the paperwork.

Key Takeaways

You must submit your current title, a completed process form, and proof of ownership to your state's DMV to change the title.
The fee for a title change ranges from $15 to $100 depending on your state and the reason for the change.
Visiting your local DMV office in person is the most reliable method because staff can verify your documents before you leave.
If you buy a car from a dealer, ask whether they will handle the title transfer as part of the sale.
Processing time varies by state but typically takes one to four weeks after you submit your process.

Gather your documents before you go to the DMV

Start by collecting the current title, your state's title process form, and proof of ownership. The current title is the document you received when you bought the car or inherited it. Your state's DMV website lists the exact process form you need — search "[your state] DMV title process" or call your local office to confirm the form number.

Proof of ownership typically means a bill of sale (if you bought the car privately), a dealer invoice (if you bought from a business), or a court order (if you inherited the car). Some states also accept a notarized bill of sale. Bring your driver's license or state ID as well. If someone else is listed on the title and you are removing them, bring written consent from that person or a divorce decree if applicable.

Check your state's DMV website for a complete list of required documents, because some states ask for additional items like proof of insurance, a vehicle inspection report, or odometer readings. Missing even one document can delay your visit or force you to return another day.

Complete the title process form correctly

read or pick up your state's title process form at the DMV office or from their website. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and details about the current owner or owners. Fill in every blank, even if it seems obvious — blank spaces can trigger a rejection.

If you are adding a co-owner, write both names exactly as they appear on your driver's licenses. If you are removing someone, write only the name of the person who will own the car going forward. Double-check the VIN against your current title and the vehicle itself — the VIN appears on the dashboard near the windshield and on the title document. A mismatched VIN will stop the process.

Sign and date the form in front of a DMV employee or, if your state requires it, in front of a notary public. Some states notarize title forms automatically at the DMV office; others require you to have it notarized beforehand. Call ahead to confirm what your state requires.

Submit your documents at the DMV office

Bring all documents to your local DMV office during business hours. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some require an appointment. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you need to book a time slot or whether you can arrive without one. Bring the original title, the completed process form, proof of ownership, your ID, and the fee in cash or by check — not all offices accept credit cards.

Hand everything to the DMV employee at the counter. They will review your documents, check the VIN against their records, and tell you whether anything is missing or incorrect. If everything is in order, they will accept your process and give you a receipt. Keep this receipt — it proves you submitted your request and shows the date.

Ask the employee how long the process takes in your state and whether you can check the status online. Some states send you a new title by mail within one to two weeks; others take four weeks or longer. A few states issue a temporary title at the office so you can drive the car legally while you wait for the permanent one.

Handle title transfers when you buy a used car

If you buy a used car from a private seller, you and the seller must both sign the back of the title to transfer ownership. The seller signs in the "seller" section and you sign in the "buyer" section. Some states require the seller to print their name and address as well. Once both of you have signed, the title is yours to take to the DMV.

If you buy from a dealer, the dealer usually handles the title transfer for you. They will give you the paperwork to sign, submit the title to the DMV on your behalf, and send you the new title once it arrives. Ask the dealer in writing whether they will handle the transfer and when you can expect to receive your new title. If the dealer does not handle it, you must do it yourself within the timeframe your state requires — usually 10 to 30 days after purchase.

If you are financing the car through a loan, the lender's name will appear on the title as a lienholder. The lender has a legal claim to the car until you pay off the loan. When you pay off the loan, the lender will send you a release document. Bring this release to the DMV along with your other documents so they can remove the lender's name from the title.

Remove a lienholder after you pay off a car loan

A lienholder is a bank or finance company whose name appears on your title because they loaned you money to buy the car. Once you pay off the loan, you need to remove their name so the title shows you as the sole owner. The lender will send you a lien release document — a letter or form stating that the loan is paid in full and the lien is released.

Take the lien release, your current title, a completed title process form, your ID, and the fee to your local DMV office. The process is the same as any other title change. The DMV will remove the lienholder's name and issue a new title showing you as the owner with no lienholder listed. This usually takes one to three weeks.

Do not lose the lien release document. If you cannot find it, contact the lender and ask them to send a duplicate. Without proof that the lien was released, the DMV cannot remove the lienholder's name from the title.

Understand state-specific rules and timelines

Every state has different rules for title changes, so check your state's DMV website before you go. Some states allow online title transfers for certain situations, such as adding a spouse or removing a lienholder. A few states accept mail-in applications if you meet specific conditions. Others require you to appear in person.

Processing time also varies. Some states issue a new title within one week; others take four weeks or longer. A handful of states charge different fees depending on whether you are adding an owner, removing an owner, or correcting information. A few states require an emissions test or vehicle inspection before they will issue a new title.

Call your local DMV office or visit their website to find the exact requirements for your situation. Having this information before you gather your documents will save you a trip if you are missing something.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the title if the current owner is deceased?

Yes, but you will need a death certificate and proof that you are the heir — usually a will, court order, or state inheritance law. Some states require you to go through probate first. Contact your state's DMV to learn what documents they need before you visit.

What if my title is lost or damaged?

You can request a duplicate or replacement title from your state's DMV. Bring your ID, proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or insurance card), and the fee. The process is similar to a title change and usually takes one to three weeks.

Do I need to change the title if I get married or divorced?

If the title is in your name only, you do not have to change it after marriage. If you want to add your spouse's name or remove an ex-spouse's name, you will need to submit a new process, proof of marriage or divorce, and the fee. A divorce decree is required to remove an ex-spouse's name.

How much does it cost to change a car title?

Fees range from $15 to $100 depending on your state and the type of change. Adding an owner, removing an owner, and correcting information may have different fees. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office for the exact amount.

What if I move to a different state?

You will need to transfer your title to your new state's DMV. Bring your current out-of-state title, a completed process form for your new state, proof of residency, your ID, and the fee. Some states require an emissions test or vehicle inspection. Contact your new state's DMV for specific requirements.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.