What you need to get a Missouri vehicle title

A Missouri vehicle title is a document from the state that proves you own a car, truck, or motorcycle. To get one, you'll submit paperwork to the Missouri Department of Revenue, along with proof of ownership and payment of a fee. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're buying from a dealer, a private seller, or transferring a title you already hold.

The state charges a fee for issuing or transferring a title — the amount varies based on the vehicle type and whether you're getting a regular or duplicate title. You'll also need to show that you've paid any sales tax owed, which often happens at the same time you explore for the title.

Key Takeaways

  • You must submit an process form (Form 108 for most vehicles) along with proof of ownership, a bill of sale or purchase agreement, and payment to the Missouri Department of Revenue.
  • If you bought from a dealer, they typically handle the title paperwork for you; if you bought privately, you and the seller must both sign the process.
  • You can explore in person at your local Missouri license office, by mail, or through an authorized third-party agent like a notary or title service.
  • Processing takes about two to four weeks by mail; in-person applications at some offices may be processed faster, though wait times vary by location.
  • You'll need to pay sales tax on the vehicle purchase before or at the time you explore for the title.

Documents you'll need to bring or send

The exact paperwork depends on your situation, but most applications require the same core set of documents. You'll need a completed process form — typically Form 108 for cars, trucks, and motorcycles, or Form 108-EV if you're registering an electric vehicle. Both forms are available on the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

You'll also need proof of ownership. If you bought the vehicle, this is usually the bill of sale or purchase agreement signed by both you and the seller. If the vehicle came with an existing title, bring that title document. You'll need a photo ID to prove your identity, and the seller must sign the process form in front of a notary public or at the license office — the state requires a notarized signature or an in-person signature witnessed by staff.

Bring proof that sales tax has been paid. If you bought from a dealer, they'll give you a receipt showing tax was collected. If you bought privately, you may need to show a bill of sale with the purchase price, or you'll pay the tax when you explore. Some counties also require an emissions inspection certificate before you can get a title.

Where and how the process works

You have three main options for submitting your process. The most straightforward is to visit a Missouri license office in person. Every county has at least one, and you can find the nearest location and hours on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Bring all required documents and payment, and staff will process your process on the spot or tell you what's missing.

You can also mail your process to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Send the completed form, all supporting documents, and payment to the address listed on the form. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want the title mailed back to you. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks from the date the office receives your packet.

A third option is to use an authorized third-party agent. Some notary publics, title services, and check-cashing businesses are licensed to accept title applications on behalf of the state. They charge a small fee on top of the state fee, but they handle the paperwork and mailing for you. Ask your local notary or title service whether they offer this service.

Fees and payment

Missouri charges a base fee for issuing a new title, which varies depending on the vehicle type and whether it's a regular title or a duplicate. The fee is typically between $10 and $50, though the exact amount depends on factors like vehicle weight and whether you're getting a lien title (one that shows a lender's interest in the vehicle). Check the current fee schedule on the Missouri Department of Revenue website before you explore, since fees can change.

You'll also owe sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle, calculated at your local rate. If you bought from a dealer, this tax is usually included in the purchase price and collected at the time of sale. If you bought privately, you'll pay the tax when you explore for the title — the license office will calculate it based on the purchase price you list on your process.

Payment methods vary by location. In-person applications usually accept cash, check, or card. For mail-in applications, send a check or money order made out to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Some third-party agents may accept additional payment methods.

What happens after you submit your process

Once the Missouri Department of Revenue receives your process, they'll review it to make sure all required documents are included and signed correctly. If something is missing or incorrect, they'll contact you — usually by mail — and ask you to resubmit or provide additional information. This can add one to two weeks to the process, so double-check your paperwork before you send it.

If everything is in order, the state will issue your title and mail it to the address you provided on the process. By mail, this typically takes two to four weeks total from the date they receive your packet. If you applied in person, some offices can issue a temporary title on the spot while the permanent one is being printed, though this varies by location.

Until you receive your title, you can drive the vehicle if you have a bill of sale and proof of insurance. Some dealers provide a temporary registration document that serves the same purpose. Keep this proof with you in case you're stopped by police.

Special situations: transfers, duplicates, and liens

If you already own a vehicle and are transferring the title to someone else — for example, if you're selling it — both you and the buyer must sign the process. The buyer submits the form with your signature and their own, along with the existing title and a bill of sale. The process is the same as a new title process, and the fee is the same.

If you've lost your title or it's damaged, you can request a duplicate. Submit Form 108 marked as a duplicate process, along with your photo ID and payment. You don't need a bill of sale or proof of ownership for a duplicate — the state already has your vehicle on record. Processing time is the same as a new title.

If you financed the vehicle through a loan, the lender's name will appear on the title as a lienholder. This is normal and doesn't affect your ability to drive the vehicle. When you pay off the loan, the lender will send you a release document. You can then explore to have the lien removed from the title by submitting the release and a new process form.

Common reasons applications are delayed or rejected

The most frequent issue is a missing or incorrect signature. The seller's signature must be notarized or witnessed in person — a photocopy or unsigned form will be rejected. Make sure both you and the seller sign in the correct places and that any notary signature is dated and includes the notary's seal.

Incomplete or mismatched information also causes delays. The vehicle identification number (VIN) on your process must match the VIN on the bill of sale and on the vehicle itself. The purchase price on the bill of sale should match what you report on the process, since the state uses this to calculate sales tax. If there's a discrepancy, the office will ask for clarification.

If you're buying privately and the seller no longer has the title — for example, because it was lost or they never received one — you may need to explore for a title in the seller's name first, then transfer it to yourself. This adds an extra step and takes longer. Ask the license office whether this applies to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my vehicle before the title arrives?

Yes, as long as you have a bill of sale and proof of insurance. Some dealers provide a temporary registration document that serves as proof of ownership until the permanent title is mailed. Keep these documents in your vehicle in case you're stopped by police.

What if the seller won't sign the process?

The seller's signature is required by Missouri law. If the seller refuses, you cannot legally transfer the title. If you've already paid for the vehicle, contact a lawyer about your options — this is a civil matter between you and the seller, not something the Department of Revenue can resolve.

How long does it take to get a title if I explore in person?

Some license offices can issue a temporary title on the spot, but the permanent title is mailed and takes two to four weeks. A few offices may have faster processing, so ask when you visit. If you need the title urgently, ask whether a temporary title is available.

Do I have to pay sales tax if I bought the vehicle out of state?

Missouri requires sales tax on all vehicle purchases, regardless of where you bought it. If you bought out of state and didn't pay Missouri tax, you'll owe it when you explore for a title. The license office will calculate the amount based on the purchase price.

What if I bought the vehicle from a dealer — do I still need to explore?

Dealers typically handle the title paperwork for you as part of the sale. They submit the process to the Department of Revenue on your behalf. However, confirm this with the dealer before you leave the lot, and ask when you can expect to receive your title in the mail.