What you need to get an Arizona title

An Arizona vehicle title is a document issued by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Motor Vehicle Division that proves you own a vehicle. To get one, you'll need to submit an process to ADOT along with proof of ownership, proof of identity, and payment for the title fee. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're titling a vehicle for the first time, transferring ownership from another state, or inheriting a vehicle.

You can explore in person at any ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office, by mail, or through an authorized third-party service (like a title service or some DMV offices in other states). The in-person route is fastest if you have all documents ready. Mail applications typically take two to four weeks. Third-party services charge a fee on top of the state fee but handle the paperwork for you.

Key Takeaways

  • You'll need the vehicle's bill of sale or previous title, a completed process for Arizona Title form (Form 44-102), proof of identity, and the title fee (currently $10 for a standard title, though fees vary for specialty plates or duplicate titles).
  • If the vehicle was previously titled in another state, you'll need the out-of-state title and proof that any liens have been satisfied or will be transferred to Arizona.
  • ADOT Motor Vehicle Division offices are located in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, Flagstaff, and Prescott, with hours that vary by location.
  • If someone else's name is on the title with you, both owners must sign the process unless one owner has a power of attorney document.
  • You cannot register a vehicle in Arizona without a title, so completing this step before registration is necessary.

Documents you'll need to bring or mail

Start with the process for Arizona Title (Form 44-102), which you can read from the ADOT website or pick up at any Motor Vehicle Division office. You'll also need proof of ownership: either the vehicle's bill of sale, the out-of-state title, or a manufacturer's certificate of origin if the vehicle is new.

Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or tribal ID). If you're explore by mail, send a copy, not the original. You'll also need proof of Arizona residency—a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If the vehicle has a lien (the lender holds the title), bring proof that the lien will be satisfied or transferred to Arizona, or the lender's name and address so ADOT can contact them directly.

Include payment for the title fee. As of now, a standard Arizona title costs $10, but specialty titles (like personalized plates or salvage titles) cost more. Check the ADOT website for current fees before you go, as they can change. If you're explore by mail, include a check or money order—ADOT does not accept credit cards by mail.

how the process works in person at an ADOT office

Locate your nearest ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office on the ADOT website. Offices are in Phoenix (downtown and multiple satellite locations), Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale, Flagstaff, and Prescott. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online to confirm hours, as they change seasonally.

Bring all documents listed above, completed and signed. The staff will review your paperwork, take payment, and issue your title on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office's current workload. If everything is in order, the process takes about 15 to 30 minutes. If documents are missing or incomplete, staff will tell you what's needed before you leave.

how the process works by mail

Complete Form 44-102 and gather all required documents. Make copies of your ID and proof of residency—do not send originals. Include the original bill of sale or out-of-state title, your check or money order for the fee, and a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want your documents returned.

Mail everything to the ADOT Motor Vehicle Division office address listed on the form. Processing takes two to four weeks from the date ADOT receives your process. Track your mail if possible so you know when it arrives. If ADOT needs more information, they will contact you by phone or mail, which can add another week or two to the timeline. Once approved, your title will be mailed to the address you listed on the process.

Transferring a title from another state

If you're moving to Arizona or buying a vehicle titled in another state, you'll need the out-of-state title, your bill of sale, and proof that any liens have been paid off or will be transferred. Some states issue titles in both owners' names; if that's the case, both owners must sign the Arizona process unless one has a power of attorney.

Arizona will not issue a new title until the out-of-state title is surrendered. If you're explore in person, bring the original out-of-state title. If you're explore by mail, send it along with your other documents. ADOT will keep the old title and issue an Arizona title in its place. This process takes the same amount of time as a standard process—same-day if in person, two to four weeks by mail.

What happens if the title has two owners

If both your name and another person's name appear on the title, both of you must sign the process for Arizona Title. If one owner cannot be present, that person can sign a power of attorney document authorizing the other owner to handle the title process. The power of attorney must be notarized and submitted with the process.

If you're divorced or separated and the title still shows both names, you'll need a court order showing the title transfer, or both parties must sign the process. If one owner has passed away, you'll need a death certificate and proof of inheritance (like a will or probate order). Contact ADOT directly if you're unsure whether your situation requires additional documents.

Title fees and how long it takes

A standard Arizona title costs $10. Duplicate titles cost $10. Salvage titles, rebuilt titles, and specialty plates have different fees—check the ADOT fee schedule on their website for exact amounts. Payment must be made at the time of process. If explore in person, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If explore by mail, send a check or money order only.

In-person applications are processed when ready or within a few business days. By mail, expect two to four weeks. If ADOT requests additional information, add another one to two weeks. Once your title is issued, it will be mailed to the address on your process. If you need the title urgently, explore in person is your fastest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I register my vehicle before I have the title?

No. Arizona requires a title before you can register a vehicle. You must complete the title process first, receive your title, and then explore for registration. If you're buying a used vehicle, ask the seller to explore for the title transfer when ready so you can register it as soon as possible.

What if the bill of sale is missing or I don't have proof of ownership?

Contact ADOT Motor Vehicle Division directly. They may be able to issue a title based on other documents, such as a mechanic's lien, a court order, or a manufacturer's certificate. The process will take longer and may require additional paperwork. Call the office in your area for guidance on your specific situation.

Do I need to have the vehicle inspected before I explore for a title?

Not for a standard title process. However, if the vehicle is salvage, rebuilt, or has been declared a total loss by an insurance company, Arizona requires an inspection by an authorized inspector before the title can be issued. ADOT will tell you if your vehicle needs an inspection based on the documents you submit.

What if I lose my title after it's issued?

You can request a duplicate title from ADOT. Complete Form 44-102, mark it as a duplicate request, and submit it with payment (currently $10). You can do this in person or by mail using the same process as a new title process. A duplicate title is a legal replacement and works the same way as the original.

Can someone else pick up or mail my title process for me?

Yes, if you're explore in person, someone else can submit your process on your behalf as long as all documents are complete and signed by you. If you're explore by mail, straightforward mail your completed process. You do not need to be present or have a representative sign anything unless the title has two owners or you're using a power of attorney.