What you need to do to change a car title
Changing a car title means transferring ownership from one person to another in your state's records. The process differs by state, but the basic steps are the same: you gather documents, fill out a form, pay a fee, and submit everything to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. The person selling the car signs the title over to the buyer, and the buyer registers it in their name.
Most states require you to complete this within 10 to 30 days of purchase, though some have no important date. If you don't change the title, the old owner remains the registered keeper on record, which can create problems if the car is in an accident or gets a parking ticket.
Key Takeaways
- The seller must sign the back of the title and provide it to the buyer before the title can be transferred.
- You will need the signed title, proof of identity, proof of residency, and the bill of sale or purchase agreement to submit to your DMV.
- Each state has its own form and fee for title transfer, ranging from $15 to $100 depending on where you live.
- You can transfer a title in person at your local DMV office, by mail, or online in some states — check your state's DMV website to see which methods are available.
- If the seller cannot locate the original title, you can request a duplicate from your state's DMV, though this adds time and cost to the process.
Gather the documents the seller must provide
The seller is responsible for signing the title and handing it to you. The title is a legal document issued by the state that proves ownership. On the back of the title, there is a section labeled "Assignment of Title" or "Seller's Signature" — the seller must sign and date this section in front of a notary public in most states, though some states do not require notarization.
Ask the seller for the original title document itself, not a copy. If the seller has lost the title, they will need to request a duplicate from their state's DMV before you can proceed. This can take one to two weeks. The seller should also provide you with the vehicle identification number (VIN), which appears on the title and on the dashboard of the car.
Request a bill of sale or purchase agreement from the seller as well. This document shows the sale price, the date of sale, and both parties' names and addresses. Some states require this; others do not, but having it protects both of you if questions arise later.
Prepare your documents for submission
Once you have the signed title from the seller, gather your own documents. You will need a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your current address. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance document dated within the last 60 days.
If you financed the car through a lender, the lender may hold the title until you pay off the loan. In this case, ask your lender for a lien release — a document stating that the lender has no claim to the car. You will need this before you can register the title in your name alone. Some lenders send this automatically; others require you to request it.
Make copies of all documents before you submit them. Keep the copies for your records. Some states accept photocopies; others require originals. Check your state's DMV website to confirm what they will accept.
Complete your state's title transfer form
Each state has its own form for transferring a title. Common names include "process for Title" or "Title Transfer Form." You can find this form on your state's DMV website, or you can pick one up in person at a DMV office.
Fill out the form completely with your name, address, driver's license number, and the vehicle's VIN. Include the sale price if your state requires it. Some states ask whether the vehicle is being transferred between family members, which may affect the fee. Sign and date the form where indicated. Do not sign before you arrive at the DMV — some states require your signature to be witnessed by a DMV employee.
If you are unsure how to fill out any section, call your state's DMV or visit their website for instructions. Many states offer phone support or live chat to answer questions about the form.
Submit your documents to the DMV
You have three main options for submitting your title transfer: in person, by mail, or online. Which option is available depends on your state.
In person: Visit your local DMV office with all your documents and the completed form. Bring the original signed title, your ID, proof of residency, and the bill of sale. The DMV will review everything, collect the fee, and process your transfer on the spot or within a few days. This is the fastest method and lets you ask questions if something is unclear.
By mail: Some states allow you to mail your documents to a central DMV office. Include the original signed title, your completed form, copies of your ID and proof of residency, and a check or money order for the fee. Mail everything to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. Use certified mail with tracking so you can confirm delivery.
Online: A growing number of states offer online title transfer for certain situations, such as transfers between family members or transfers of vehicles under a certain age. Visit your state's DMV website to see if you are may be able to access. Online processing usually takes one to two weeks.
Pay the title transfer fee
Every state charges a fee to transfer a title. The fee varies widely — it can be as low as $15 in some states or as high as $100 in others. Some states charge different amounts based on the vehicle's age or value. A few states waive the fee for transfers between spouses or parents and children.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee in your area. If you are submitting in person, you can usually pay by cash, check, or card. If you are mailing your documents, pay by check or money order — do not send cash through the mail. If you are submitting online, you will pay by card at the time of submission.
Receive your new title and registration
After the DMV processes your transfer, you will receive a new title in your name. This typically arrives by mail within one to three weeks, depending on your state and the method you used to submit. The new title will show you as the registered owner.
At the same time, you will receive new registration documents and a registration sticker (also called a license plate decal). Place the sticker on your license plate as instructed. Keep your registration documents in the car at all times — police may ask to see them during a traffic stop.
Once you have the new title and registration in hand, the transfer is complete. The old owner is no longer listed as the keeper on record, and you are the legal owner of the vehicle.
What to do if the title has a lien or is lost
If the seller still owes money on the car, the title will show a lien — a claim by the lender. The lender must sign off on the title transfer before you can register it in your name. Ask the seller to contact their lender and request a lien release. The lender will send this document to you or directly to the DMV. Do not complete your transfer until you have the lien release in hand.
If the seller cannot find the original title, they can request a duplicate from their state's DMV. This process takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $50 depending on the state. The seller must provide their ID, proof of ownership, and the vehicle's VIN. Once they receive the duplicate, they can sign it over to you and you can proceed with the transfer.
If you are buying a car from out of state, the process is similar, but you will need to transfer the title to your home state's DMV. Some states require an inspection or emissions test before they will issue a new title. Check your state's DMV website for out-of-state transfer rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change a car title?
In-person transfers usually take one to three days. Mail submissions take two to four weeks. Online transfers, where available, take one to two weeks. The exact timeline depends on your state's DMV processing speed and how busy they are at the time you submit.
Can I drive the car before the new title arrives?
Yes, as long as you have a bill of sale or purchase agreement showing you own the car. Some states allow you to drive on the seller's registration for a short period while your transfer is being processed. Check your state's rules, and keep proof of purchase in the car with you.
What if I bought the car from a private seller and they won't sign the title?
You cannot legally own the car without a signed title. Do not give the seller money until they sign. If the seller refuses to sign after you have paid, contact your state's attorney general's office or local police to report the issue. Some states have a process to obtain a title through the court if the seller disappears.
Do I need to notarize the seller's signature on the title?
This depends on your state. Some states require notarization; others do not. Check your state's DMV website or call them to confirm. If notarization is required, the seller can have their signature notarized at a bank, UPS store, or notary public's office for $5 to $15.
What if the car has two owners listed on the title?
Both owners must sign the title for it to transfer. If the owners are married or in a civil partnership, one signature may be enough — check your state's rules. If the owners are not together and one refuses to sign, you cannot complete the transfer. Do not buy a car with multiple owners unless both are present and willing to sign.