Transfer a Car Title to Someone Else

Learn about how to transfer a car title to someone else.

If you have decided to buy a new car or want to sell the vehicle then getting the vehicle title is important. Moreover, the title shows your ownership and allows you to drive safely in the state you are residing. If you do not have the title then legal issues can take place making you pay a high fine if caught by a police officer.

  • A car Title is a crucial document proving who owns the car. 
  •  Whenever someone sells a used car they must help the buyer in getting a title transfer.
  •  The title transfer to the new buyer means helping the purchaser to get it in their name from the DMV.
  • If you own a car on loan then the lender will be involved as well in completing the title transfer. Make sure to pay off the loan before transferring or update the lender if you want to sell the vehicle.

A Simple Transfer of a Car Title

The process of transferring car titles is flexible and direct. Moreover, there can be additional details required according to the state’s regulations. The title transfer includes signing the current title for the new buyer.

Besides, the additional information includes the car’s odometer information, buyer’s name, contact details, and sale price.

If the car is titled to two owners then the need is to get it signed by both owners. The process may differ according to the state’s laws and regulations. Once the seller has signed the title then the buyer must visit the department of a motor vehicle to get the new title.

The requirement is to fill out the form for title replacement and pay the fees. On completion, the title will reach your residence or the authorities will let you know when you can collect the title. 

Recommended reading: Title Loan Relief Assistance, Can I Get It?

More Complicated Scenarios in Transferring a Car Title

There are a few complications when you want to transfer the car title. In addition, if you have a pending car loan then the lender must be notified regarding the title replacement.

In a few states, the need is to get a lender affidavit showing that the lender knows about the title transfer. Sometimes the lender wants the loan to be paid in full before transferring the title.

The seller is still held responsible until the title is not transferred to the buyer. Moreover, it becomes important for the seller to go along with the buyer for completing the title transfer process.

The fees will vary from state to state. Getting the title transfer to the buyer’s name is important for avoiding legal issues.

One exception can be if you want to sell your vehicle at the dealership to buy a new car. The conditions will vary from state to state. In most situations, the dealership won’t apply for title transfer.

They will wait until the used car is not sold to the new buyer. As per regulations, the new buyer must apply for a new title transfer within 40 days after purchasing the car.

Know What You Need to Bring to the Title Office

Transferring a car title is not a tough process and the need is to apply for a car title transfer to avoid legal issues. The requirement for transferring title can vary from state to state. In addition, the suggestion is to visit the DMV for transferring car title. 

A buyer must follow the steps to complete the car title transfer without facing any complications.

  • Receipt of payment
  • Agreement showing that seller has paid off the loan if any pending
  • Paying the fees
  • Complete details about the vehicle

If we missed anything then the suggestion is to visit the DMV’s website and get to know about the documents to be submitted.

Final Words

For transferring the car title, the seller must sign the car title and fill out the information required. The buyer must take the signed title to the department of a motor vehicle for finishing the title transfer process.

In addition, if there is a lien or loan on the car then the seller must get it clear or get a lender affidavit before selling the vehicle. The process to transfer a car title is not tough. If you have any doubts then you can talk with the authorities and understand the process for transferring car title. 

Recommended reading: How To Get A Car Title Loan Without A Clear Title


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