How to transfer the title of a used car

Author: Mariano · Last updated: October 12, 2026

The certificate of title proves who owns the car. When you buy or sell a used car, it has to be transferred to the new owner at the state’s DMV (or equivalent office). Each state has its own forms and deadlines, but the steps are quite similar. Find your DMV’s website at usa.gov/motor-vehicle-services.

If you’re buying

Before paying

The title must be in the seller’s name, and that name must match their ID.
Check that the VIN on the title matches the car.
Look for a lien (lender). If there is one, you need the lien release signed by the lender, or a new title without the lien.
Check whether the title has a brand (salvage, rebuilt, flood).

At the time of sale

The seller signs the title in the assignment section and writes your name and the date. Don’t accept a title signed “in blank”.
The odometer disclosure is completed with the current mileage. For model year 2011 and newer cars, federal law requires it until the car is 20 years old.
Make a bill of sale: date, price, VIN, make, model, year, names and signatures. Some states have their own form.
Get all the keys and the maintenance records.

Afterwards

Get insurance.
Go to the DMV within your state’s deadline, with: signed title, bill of sale, ID, proof of insurance, lien release (if applicable) and, if your state requires it, inspection or emissions results.
Pay sales tax, the title fee and the registration fee.
Get your registration and plates. The new title in your name usually arrives by mail.

If you’re selling

If you had a loan, pay it off and get the lien release or a clear title.
Sign the title where indicated, with the buyer’s name, the date and the mileage.
Give the buyer a bill of sale and keep a copy.
In many states you keep the plates; ask your DMV.
File the notice of sale or release of liability if your state has one.
Cancel your insurance after handing over the car, not before.

Common mistakes

Crossing out or correcting the title: it can void it. If there’s an error, ask the DMV how to fix it.
Buying with a title that isn’t in the seller’s name (title jumping): illegal in many states and it can leave you unable to register the car.
Missing the transfer deadline: some states charge late fees.

Frequently asked questions

What if the seller lost the title?

They must request a duplicate from the DMV in the state where the car is titled before selling it. Don’t buy a car "without a title" on the promise that it will arrive later.

I sold my car — do I have to notify the DMV?

In many states, yes: there is a notice of transfer or release of liability. It protects you if the buyer gets tickets or has an accident before transferring the title.