assignment of ownership car title

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How to Fill Out a Car Title Transfer

Last Updated: March 19, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lahaina Araneta, JD . Lahaina Araneta, Esq. is an Immigration Attorney for Orange County, California with over 6 years of experience. She received her JD from Loyola Law School in 2012. In law school, she participated in the immigrant justice practicum and served as a volunteer with several nonprofit agencies. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 565,475 times.

If you are buying or selling a vehicle, you will need to pass ownership of the vehicle by filling out the title transfer. The rules vary from state to state, so it's important to find out the specific paperwork and regulations in your area before moving forward with the sale. In general, however, the steps are essentially the same.

Filling Out a Car Title as a Buyer

• Verify the buyer and seller’s names, the sale date, and VIN number are correct.
• Check the odometer of the car to ensure the mileage on the title is accurate.
• Search the VIN number on the DMV’s site to confirm there's no lien on the car. [1] X Research source
• Sign the title and get the Bill of Sale to transfer the title to you at the DMV.

Selling a Vehicle

• Your DMV should have an application you can complete for requesting a duplicate title. The application or form might be available online.
• You might not have the title because you haven’t paid off your car loan. In that situation, you need to work with your lender to pay off your loan before you will receive the title. Once paid, you can submit a lien clearance letter or other release form to the DMV to get the lien removed. [2] X Research source
• If the car has a lien, then the duplicate will probably be sent to the lienholder, so it is best to take care of the lien before making the sale.

• You can find your DMV online. Type “your state” and then “DMV.” Look for a link that explains transferring title.
• You can also find the specific rules and regulations in your state regarding title transfer here: https://www.dmv.org/title-transfers.php . Click on your state. This website isn’t affiliated with any state government. However, they provide links and contact information to state offices.

• names of the buyer and the seller
• notary’s signature (in some states) [3] X Research source
• date of sale
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• odometer reading (though in some states this is a separate form)

• If your state doesn’t have a form, you can create your own. It should contain a description of the vehicle, VIN, final sale price, place of sale, and the names of both buyer and seller.
• If the seller made any warranties, those should be included in the Bill of Sale as well. There will also be implied warranties if a written warranty was provided by the dealer when the car was sold. [5] X Trustworthy Source Federal Trade Commission Website with up-to-date information for consumers from the Federal Trade Commisson Go to source

• description of the vehicle, such as its make, model, year, and color
• date of the sale or title transfer
• license plate number
• odometer reading
• new owner’s name and contact information
• your name and contact information

Buying a Vehicle

• names of buyer and seller
• odometer number
• any other information necessary to the sale of the car

• Most liens are held by the bank that gave the seller their car loan. The car is used as collateral for the loan. In that situation, the bank probably has held onto the title and the only way the seller can get the title is to pay off the lien.
• However, a seller could have other liens on the car. Accordingly, don’t assume that there are no liens on the car simply because the seller has title. For example, a child support lien might have been placed on the car. Alternately, a mechanic could get a lien on the car for unpaid repairs. If you buy the vehicle with the lien on it, you now become responsible for the lien. [9] X Research source
• If you have the VIN, you can check for liens by visiting your local DMV or checking their website to see if it has a title check feature. If your DMV's website does have a title check feature, you can enter the VIN to see the title and lien information for the car. This is a critical step, so don’t neglect it.

• Ideally, you should go with the seller to the DMV office and fill out the transfer form together there. Even if not required by the state, going together can protect you because you can check for liens while you are there. [11] X Research source
• The DMV should also have a notary public in the office, in case your state requires that your signatures be notarized.

• You’ll also need the VIN and current odometer reading, which should be on the title form. In some states, the odometer reading will be written on a different form.

• You typically must pay a fee for the title transfer, which will vary by state.
• You must turn over the title. Your state should send you a new title in the mail.

• proof of insurance
• proof that you’ve paid sales tax
• certificates showing the car has passed safety and emissions inspections

Expert Q&A

• If you ever have questions about the process, contact your local DMV. They can give you the correct information you need. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle/title-check-look-before-you-buy
• ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/titles/how-remove-lienholder-title
• ↑ https://www.dmv.org/az-arizona/title-transfers.php
• ↑ https://www.dmv.org/bill-of-sale-form.php
• ↑ https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0055-buying-used-car
• ↑ https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/titles/title-transfers-and-changes/notice-of-transfer-and-release-of-liability-nrl/
• ↑ https://dmv.ny.gov/registration/how-check-title-or-lien-status
• ↑ https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicles/transowner.htm
• ↑ https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv-virtual-office/title-transfers/
• ↑ https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle

About This Article

To fill out a car title transfer when selling your vehicle, make sure you have the title or apply for a duplicate from the DMV. Once you secure the title, fill out the transfer form, including the names of the buyers and sellers, date of sale, price, vehicle identification number, and odometer reading. After you finish the paperwork, get all of the necessary signatures. Depending on the specific rules in your state, you might need to have your paperwork notarized and include a Bill of Sale. When you’ve completed your state’s requirements, which you can verify on the DMV website, submit the Notice of Transfer or Release of Liability to the DMV to protect you in case the new owner gets into an accident before the paperwork is processed. To learn how to fill out a car title transfer when buying a vehicle, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Transfer a Car Title

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A car title is a document that proves who owns a vehicle. When you sell your car , the title must be legally transferred to the new owner so that person can complete the registration process.

Beyond indicating who owns the car, the title also includes the vehicle identification number, the mileage at the time of sale and what type of car it is.

How car title transfer works

Transferring a car title consists of three steps, one for the seller, one for the buyer and one for the state.

The seller has to release ownership of the car by signing the title. 

The buyer takes the signed title to the state office that handles car titles, often called the department of motor vehicles, or DMV. Some states might require additional paperwork to complete the process, such as a bill of sale or a transfer of ownership form.

Your state DMV issues a new registration and title. 

A car’s title is sometimes called the “pink slip,” though it could be any color, really. Regardless of its color, the title is always issued by your state’s department of motor vehicles.

Differences between dealer and private-party sales

When you're buying a new car , a dealer handles the paperwork and you usually receive the vehicle title from your state’s DMV in the mail. But when private parties buy or sell cars, it’s up to them to transfer the title.

States may require the seller to provide basic information about the car, such as the odometer reading and the sales price, which is used to calculate the sales tax .

Before signing the title, check with your state’s DMV to find the proper line on which to sign and how to supply the correct information.

Whose name is listed?

For the seller, the first step is to look at how your name is listed on the car’s title. If your name alone is printed on the title, this means you are the only owner and can easily transfer ownership.

If, however, there’s also a bank or lender’s name on the title (referred to as a “lienholder”), this means you have an auto loan that has to be settled before you can sell. This complicates things, but it’s still possible to sell your car. Call your lender and ask how to sell a car that has a loan and how the transaction should be handled.

In many cases, a car is owned jointly by two people, such as a husband and wife. In this case, there are two ways the vehicle title can be written. The two names might have an “and” or an “or” between them. Generally, “and” means both parties have to sign the title to release ownership; “or” means either person can sign the title.

Avoid delays

Visit your state’s DMV website before you sell your car to see what documents are required, where to sign the title and how to handle multiple owners. Find your DMV website here:

If you make a mistake, such as signing on the wrong line, or if you try to erase something from the title, it will slow the process. Either you’ll need to file a second form, stating you made a mistake, or you might have to apply for a new title from the DMV before the sale can be concluded.

Buyer’s next steps

After the title is properly signed by the seller, the buyer must register the car in the new owner's name. In some states, the application for a new title and registration is on the back of the old title. In other cases, you might have to download a transfer of ownership form from your state’s DMV website.

Usually, a temporary registration is issued as soon as the title and proper forms have been presented to the DMV. A new title, in the new owner’s name, will be mailed later.

On a similar note...

Title Transfers and Changes

To prove vehicle ownership, it’s important to have a valid, up-to-date, and accurate California Certificate of Title. Here’s how you can transfer and change a title. 

Transfer your Title online!

You can now transfer a title online. Learn more about the steps and get started.

How to Transfer a Title

Anytime there’s a change to a vehicle or vessel’s registered owner or lienholder, that change must be updated in DMV’s records within 10 days and the California Certificate of Title must be transferred to the new owner.

A change in ownership is usually due to:

• Sale, gift, or donation
• Adding or deleting the name of an owner
• Inheritance
• Satisfaction of lien (full payment of car loan)

To transfer a title, you will need:

• Either the California Certificate of Title or an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) (if the title is missing). 
• The signature(s) of seller(s) and lienholder (if any).
• The signature(s) of buyer(s).
• A transfer fee .

Depending on the type of transfer, you might need to complete and submit additional forms. See below for other title transfers and title transfer forms.

Submit your title transfer paperwork and fee (if any) to a DMV office or by mail to: 

DMV PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269

Rush Title Processing

If you need us to expedite your title processing, you can request rush title processing for an additional fee.

Transfer Fees

Depending on the type of transfer, you may need to pay the following fees:

• Replacement title
• Use tax, based on the buyer’s county of residence
• Registration

See the full list of fees .

Renewal fees and parking/toll violation fees don’t need to be paid to issue a replacement California Certificate of Title.

Title Transfer Forms

These forms may be required when transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel:  Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment (REG 262) form (call the DMV’s automated voice system at 1-800-777-0133 to have a form mailed to you) Statement of Facts (REG 256) Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (REG 166) Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability Smog certification Vehicle Emission System Statement (Smog) (REG 139) Declaration of Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)/Combined Gross Vehicle Weight (CGW) (REG 4008) Affidavit for Transfer without Probate (REG 5) Bill of Sale (REG 135) Verification of Vehicle (REG 31)

Other Title Transfers

When you’re buying a new car or a used car from a dealership, the dealer will handle the paperwork and you’ll receive your title from DMV in the mail.

When vehicle ownership is transferred between two private parties, it’s up to them to transfer the title. If you have the California Certificate of Title for the vehicle , the seller signs the title to release ownership of the vehicle. The buyer should then bring the signed title to a DMV office to apply for transfer of ownership. 

If you don’t have the California Certificate of Title , you need to use an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) to transfer ownership. The lienholder’s release, if any, must be notarized. The buyer should then bring the completed form to a DMV office and we will issue a new registration and title.

Make sure you have all signatures on the proper lines to avoid delays.

Other Steps for the Seller When Vehicle Ownership is Transferred

• 10 years old or older.
• Commercial with a GVW or CGW of more than 16,000 pounds.
• New and being transferred prior to its first retail sale by a dealer.
• Complete a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days of releasing ownership and keep a copy for your records.

Once the seller gives the buyer all required documentation and DMV receives the completed NRL, the seller’s part of the transaction is complete.

*If the vehicle has been sold more than once with the same title, a REG 262 is required from each seller.

Other Steps for the Buyer When Vehicle Ownership is Transferred

• Current registered owner(s), how names are joined (“and/or”), and lienholder/legal owner (if any).
• License plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, year, and registration expiration date.
• Title brands (if any).
• Words “Nontransferable/No California Title Issued,” indicating a California title was not issued and a REG 227 cannot be used (see FAQs).
• Get a smog inspection (if applicable).

Once the buyer has provided the DMV with all the proper documents and fees, the vehicle record is updated to reflect the change of ownership and a registration card is issued.

A new title is issued from DMV headquarters within 60 calendar days.

To transfer a vehicle between family members, submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Title properly signed or endorsed on line 1 by the registered owner(s) shown on the title. Complete the new owner information on the back of the title and sign it.
• A Statement of Facts (REG 256) for use tax and smog exemption (if applicable).
• Odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.
• Transfer fee .

You may transfer a vehicle from an individual to the estate of that individual without signatures on the Certificate of Title.

Submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Title. On the back of the title, the new owner section must show “Estate of (name of individual)” and their address. Any legal owner/lienholder named on the front of the title must be re-entered on the back of the title.
• A Statement of Facts (REG 256) confirming the owner is deceased and Letters Testamentary have not been issued. The person completing the statement must indicate their relationship to the deceased.

Use tax and a smog certification are not required.

Vehicle ownership can be transferred to a deceased owner’s heir 40 days after the owner’s death, as long as the value of the deceased’s property in California does not exceed:

• $150,000 if the deceased died before 1/1/20.
• $166,250 if the deceased died on or after 1/1/20.

If the heir will be the new owner, submit the following to a DMV office:

• The California Certificate of Title. The heir must sign the deceased registered owner’s name and countersign on line 1. The heir should complete and sign the back of the title.
• Affidavit for Transfer without Probate (REG 5) , completed and signed by the heir.
• An original or certified copy of the death certificate of all deceased owners.

If the heir prefers to sell the vehicle, the buyer also needs (in addition to the items above):

• Bill of Sale (REG 135) from the heir to the buyer.
• Transfer fee (two transfer fees are due in this case).

To transfer vessel ownership, submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Ownership. The registered owner signs line 1. The legal owner/lienholder (if any) signs line 2. Complete the new owner information on the back of the certificate and sign it.
• Bill(s) of sale, if needed to establish a complete chain of ownership.
• A Vessel Registration Fee .
• Use tax based on the tax rate percentage for your county of residence.

After you sell a vessel, complete a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within five days of releasing ownership and keep a copy for your records.

How to Update or Change a Title

Because a California Certificate of Title is a legal document, it is important to keep it accurate and up-to-date. Here’s how you can update or change a title. 

Order a Replacement California Certificate of Title

You must order a replacement California Certificate of Title when the original is lost, stolen, damaged, illegible, or not received. 

To order a replacement title, submit the following:

• Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) .
• The original title (if you have it).
• California photo driver license (if submitting form in person).
• Replacement title fee .
• If another replacement title was issued in the past 90 days, a Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) completed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This requirement only applies if the registered owner’s name or address doesn’t match DMV records*.

You can submit your application either in-person* at a DMV office or by mail:

Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Operations PO Box 942869 Sacramento, California 94269-0001

If you’re submitting your form to a DMV office, we recommend you make an appointment so you can avoid any lines. 

You’ll receive your title by mail 15-30 calendar days from the date you submit the replacement title application.

*If you’re applying for a replacement title and the registered owner’s name or address doesn’t match DMV records (except for obvious typographical errors), you must submit your application in person with proof of ownership (e.g. registration card) and an acceptable photo ID (e.g. driver’s license/ID card).

Online Replacement Title Request

Visit our Virtual Office to request a replacement title online.

Change or Correct a Name on a Title

Your true full name must appear on your vehicle or vessel California Certificate of Title and registration card. If your name is misspelled, changes (e.g as a result of marriage or divorce), or is legally changed, you need to correct your name on your title.

To change or correct your name, submit:

• California Certificate of Title with your correct name printed or typed in the “New Registered Owner” section
• A completed Name Statement in Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) .

You may submit your application to any DMV office or by mail to:

Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Registration Operations PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

Removing Information that was Entered by Mistake

If a name or other information is entered on a title by mistake, complete a Statement to Record Ownership (REG 101) .

Frequently Asked Questions

If the vehicle has a legal owner/lienholder, then section 5 of the REG 227 needs to be notarized. If the registration does not show a legal owner/lienholder, notarization is not required.

Need help finding the lienholder on your vehicle title? We keep a listing of banks, credit unions, and financial/lending institutions that may have gone out of business, merged, changed their name, or been acquired by another financial institution.

No. You must obtain a title from the state where the vehicle was last titled.

If you’re unable to obtain a title from that state, provide documentation that they cannot issue a title. A motor vehicle bond may be required

Contact us for more information .

Need something else?

Fee calculator.

Use our fee calculator to estimate any applicable registration or title transfer fees.

Renew Your Vehicle Registration

You need to renew your vehicle registration every 1-5 years in California, depending on the vehicle. Make sure your registration is up-to-date.

Make an Appointment

Some applications can be submitted to a DMV office near you. Make an appointment so you don’t have to wait in line.

General Disclaimer

When interacting with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Virtual Assistant, please do not include any personal information.

When your chat is over, you can save the transcript. Use caution when using a public computer or device.

The DMV chatbot and live chat services use third-party vendors to provide machine translation. Machine translation is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. The DMV is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by the third-party vendors and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the content resulting from the use of the translation service.

The content currently in English is the official and accurate source for the program information and services DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated content, please refer to the English version.

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The web pages currently in English on the DMV website are the official and accurate source for the program information and services the DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated website, please refer to the English version.

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How To Get A Title For A Car

Erin gobler.

5 - Minute Read

PUBLISHED: May 29, 2024

When you buy a new car, getting the keys isn’t what makes it legally yours. Instead, it’s the vehicle title that designates you as the owner. Depending on how and where you purchase your car, you may receive the title on the spot or your lender may send it to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

If you’re planning a car purchase, or even if you’ve already purchased one but haven’t received the title, it’s important to understand how to get a title for a car, how titles are transferred and how to replace your title if you’ve lost it.

What Is A Car Title?

A car title is a legal document that establishes its ownership. Though titles may look a bit different from state to state, they all contain the same basic information about the vehicle. A car title contains the name and address of the vehicle owner. It also includes other information, such as:

• Make and model of the car
• Year of the car
• Color of the car
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
• Current odometer reading
• Official seal of the issuing state
• Lienholder information (if relevant)

Each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or Bureau of Motor Vehicles is responsible for issuing, replacing and transferring vehicle titles. If you own a vehicle, it’s critical that you maintain this document since it serves as your proof of ownership.

Never miss a payment

How to obtain a title for a car.

When you buy a car, whether you buy new or used, you should receive the title. The process for getting the title may differ depending on how you purchase the vehicle.

Getting The Title For A New Car

When you buy a new car from a dealership , they’ll take care of all the documentation on your behalf, including completing the paperwork required for the title. Depending on your financing arrangement, you may even be able to roll your title fee into your loan costs.

If you finance your new vehicle, which is the case for most people, you’ll receive a copy of your title, but you won’t receive the original. Your title will list your lender as the lienholder and the lender will maintain the original title until you’ve repaid your loan.

Once you repay your loan, your lender will release the lien. You should receive an original title from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles that lists you as the owner free and clear of a lien.

Getting The Title For A Used Car

If you buy a used car from a dealership and finance your purchase, the process will actually work the same as if you bought a new car. Your lender will maintain the original title until you can repay the loan. However, it’s a different story when you buy a used vehicle in cash.

When you purchase a vehicle in cash from a dealership, you may either receive the title and the vehicle the same day or receive it in the mail within a few weeks. If you purchase the car from an individual, the two of you will handle the title process yourselves. The previous owner will sign over the title to you, and you’ll be responsible for registering it with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

How Are Car Titles Transferred?

Transferring a vehicle title from one owner to another is a simple process. Practically speaking, all that must happen is the previous owner signs the title document over to the new owner and documents other information, such as the odometer reading and sale price.

Once the previous owner has signed the title over, the new owner can bring it to the Department of Motor Vehicles to register the vehicle in their own name.

When you’re transferring a title at the DMV, you’ll need to provide the following information:

• License plate number
• Owner's information (identification, address, telephone number)
• Title holder's information
• Cost of sale (if applicable)
• Owner's signature

Keep in mind that, depending on your state, you may be on the hook for vehicle transfer taxes. These taxes are based on a percentage of the sale price. For example, if you purchase a vehicle for $20,000 and your state has a 5% vehicle sales tax, you’ll pay $1,000 in taxes.

Keep in mind that the process may vary depending on where you live and how you purchase the vehicle. If you purchase from a dealership, they’ll handle the title paperwork on your behalf. Some states may also allow you to register your vehicle online or via mail.

Transferring A Car Title To A Different State

If you move to a new state, you’ll need to retitle and register your vehicle there. Most states set a maximum amount of time – usually 30 days – in which you must register your vehicle in your new state. Depending on where you move, you may also be subject to other requirements, including:

• Paying additional fees and taxes
• Having an emissions or safety test performed
• Verifying/attesting to the odometer reading

How Can You Replace A Lost Title?

It’s important to maintain your vehicle’s title since it establishes and proves your ownership. However, if you do lose your title, you can get a replacement.

If you lose your vehicle title, you’ll have to contact or visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles for a new one. You’ll usually have to pay a title replacement fee, which can range from $2 to $95, depending on your state. Additionally, you may be required to provide information about your vehicle and ownership, including:

• Proof of lien release
• Make and model of your car
• Driver’s license and current vehicle registration

FAQs About Getting A Car Title

If you need more information about how to get your car’s title, read the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Where can I get my car title?

Depending on how you purchase your vehicle, you’ll either receive your title in person at the time of the purchase, in the mail a few weeks later, or in the mail after you’ve paid off your vehicle loan. If you lose your original title, you can get a new one directly from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.

How is a car title different from a car registration?

A title is a legal document that establishes vehicle ownership. Registration, on the other hand, proves that you’ve registered your vehicle with the state. Vehicle registration often must be renewed each year or every few years, depending on where you live. A title is only updated when the car’s ownership changes.

Can I get scammed by a forged title?

A forged vehicle title is one that’s been signed fraudulently. Someone may use a forged title to sign over a vehicle to someone else illegally. When buying a car from a private individual, it’s important to proceed with caution to avoid getting scammed by a forged title.

How long does it take to get a title?

The amount of time it takes to get a vehicle title depends on how you purchase it. You may receive it either immediately or within a few weeks when you purchase a vehicle in cash or once you’ve repaid your loan if you’ve financed your vehicle.

The Bottom Line: Obtaining A Car Title Is Essential

When you purchase a car, getting the title is a critical part of the transaction. It’s the legal document that establishes your ownership. The process of getting your car title differs depending on how and where you purchase your vehicle, so it's important to do your research ahead of time. If you’re preparing to buy a car and want to see how car payments fit in your budget, sign up for the Rocket Money SM app.

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Lzos Lytkarinskii Zavod Opticheskogo Stekla AO (Russia)

lzos is a Russian company. They specialize in the production of biological protection windows for nuclear power plants. They have developed over 80 names and produced over 2000 units, making them one of the main manufacturers in the Russian Federation for this type of glass.

Headquarters Ulitsa Parkovaya, Dom 1 Lytkarino; Moscow Oblast; Postal Code: 140080

Contact Details: Purchase the Lzos Lytkarinskii Zavod Opticheskogo Stekla AO report to view the information.

Website: http://lzos.ru

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