Where to get a car title and what you'll need
You get a car title from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), though it may be called the Secretary of State, Registry of Motor Vehicles, or Department of Transportation depending on where you live. The title is a legal document that proves you own the vehicle. If you're buying a used car from a private seller, the seller must sign over their title to you. If you're buying from a dealer, they typically handle the title transfer. If you've inherited a car or received one as a gift, you'll need to explore for a new title in your name.
Before you visit the DMV or submit paperwork, gather these documents: proof of ownership (the current title, bill of sale, or court documents if inherited), proof of identity (driver's license or passport), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof that you've paid any sales tax or use tax owed. Some states also require a vehicle inspection report or emissions test before they'll issue a title. The exact documents vary by state, so check your DMV's website first — most have a checklist for your specific situation.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV issues car titles, and you must explore in person or by mail depending on your state's rules.
- If you're buying from a private seller, they sign the back of their title and give it to you; if buying from a dealer, they usually submit the paperwork for you.
- You'll need the current title, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of tax payment to get a new title in your name.
- Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on your state and whether you submit in person or by mail.
Buying a car from a private seller
When you buy a car from a private seller, the seller must sign the back of their title — usually in a section labeled "Assignment of Title" or "Seller's Signature." You'll also need a bill of sale, which is a written record of the sale that includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), the sale price, the date, and both signatures. Many states provide a bill of sale form on their DMV website, or you can write one yourself as long as it includes those details.
Take both the signed title and the bill of sale to your DMV office along with your proof of identity and residency. Some states let you mail these documents instead of going in person, but processing takes longer — usually two to four weeks by mail versus a few days in person. You'll pay a title transfer fee, which ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state. The DMV will issue a new title with your name as the owner.
Buying a car from a dealer
Dealers handle most of the title paperwork for you, but you still need to provide documents. At the time of purchase, the dealer will ask for your proof of identity, proof of residency, and information about your financing if you're taking out a loan. The dealer submits the title process to the DMV on your behalf, along with the bill of sale and proof of tax payment.
The dealer may give you a temporary registration document (sometimes called a temporary tag or dealer plate) that lets you drive the car legally while the permanent title is being processed. This temporary document is usually valid for 30 to 60 days. You'll receive your permanent title in the mail once the DMV processes it. If you financed the car, the lender's name will appear on the title as a lienholder until you pay off the loan.
Inheriting or receiving a car as a gift
If you inherit a car, you'll need the deceased owner's title, a death certificate, and proof that you're the legal heir (usually a will or court document). Some states require you to have the car appraised or inspected before issuing a new title. Take these documents to your DMV along with your proof of identity and residency. The DMV will issue a new title in your name.
If someone gives you a car as a gift, the process is similar to a private sale: the giver signs the back of the title, and you provide a bill of sale (even though no money changed hands — write $0 as the sale price). You'll still pay the title transfer fee and any applicable tax, though some states waive tax on gifts. Check your state's rules on gift taxes before you go to the DMV.
What happens if the title is lost or damaged
If the current owner lost their title or it's too damaged to sign, they can request a duplicate title from the DMV before selling you the car. This takes a few days to a few weeks depending on the state. If you're buying the car and the seller can't provide a title, some states allow you to explore for a "bonded title," which requires you to post a bond (a small insurance policy) for a set period — usually three to five years — to protect against claims that someone else owns the car.
A bonded title is more expensive and takes longer to process than a regular title transfer, so it's worth asking the seller to get a duplicate title first. If the seller refuses or can't locate the title, ask your DMV whether a bonded title is an option in your state before you complete the purchase.
Timing and fees for getting a title
Processing time depends on whether you explore in person or by mail and how busy your DMV is. In-person applications usually take a few days to a week; by-mail applications typically take two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, usually $10 to $25 more than the standard fee.
Title transfer fees range from $10 to $50 depending on your state. You may also owe sales tax or use tax on the vehicle, which varies by state and the purchase price. A few states charge extra for duplicate titles or bonded titles. Check your state DMV's fee schedule on their website before you go, so you know exactly what to bring and how much to pay.
Common mistakes that delay your title
The most common reason titles are rejected is a missing or incorrect signature. Make sure the seller signs in the exact spot the DMV requires — usually the back of the title in a box labeled for the seller's signature. If the signature is in the wrong place or missing, the DMV will send the paperwork back and you'll have to start over.
Another frequent problem is incomplete information on the bill of sale or title process. Double-check that the VIN on all documents matches exactly, that the sale price is filled in, and that both parties have signed and dated everything. If you're mailing documents, make copies for your records before you send them. If the DMV rejects your process, they'll tell you what's missing, but it can add weeks to the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive the car before I have the title?
No, you need either the original title or a temporary registration document to drive legally. If you're buying from a dealer, they'll give you a temporary tag. If you're buying from a private seller, you should go to the DMV when ready after the sale to explore for the title, or ask the seller for a temporary registration if your state offers one.
What if the seller's name doesn't match the title exactly?
The name on the title must match the seller's current legal name. If it doesn't, the seller needs to get a corrected title from the DMV first, or provide a legal document (like a marriage certificate or court order) showing the name change. The DMV won't process a title transfer if the names don't match.
Do I need the title if I'm buying a car that's being financed?
Yes, the title still transfers to you, but the lender's name will appear on it as a lienholder. The lender holds the title until you pay off the loan. Once you pay it off, you can request a clean title with only your name on it.
What if I can't go to the DMV in person?
Many states allow you to mail your title process, though processing takes longer. Some states also let you use a mail-in service or third-party agent to submit documents on your behalf. Check your state DMV's website to see which options are available where you live.
How long does it take to get a title after I buy the car?
In-person applications usually take a few days to a week. By-mail applications take two to four weeks. If you need it faster, some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee. You'll receive the title in the mail once it's processed.