What you need to do to get a car title
A car title is a legal document proving you own the vehicle. When you buy a car from a dealer, private seller, or inherit one, you must register it with your state's motor vehicle department and receive a title in your name. The exact steps depend on where you bought the car and where you live, but every state requires this before you can legally drive it.
The process typically involves submitting paperwork to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State, or equivalent agency. You'll need proof of ownership, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The agency then issues a title certificate with your name on it. This usually takes two to four weeks, though some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.
Key Takeaways
- You must register your vehicle and obtain a title from your state's motor vehicle department within a set timeframe, usually 10 to 30 days after purchase.
- Buying from a dealer is simpler because they often handle the title transfer paperwork, but you still need to complete registration yourself.
- Private sales require you to get a bill of sale from the seller and submit it along with the old title to your state agency.
- Inherited vehicles need a death certificate and proof of heirship, plus the deceased owner's title, before you can transfer it to your name.
- Each state has different forms, fees, and timelines, so you must check your specific state's DMV website for exact requirements.
Buying from a dealer versus a private seller
When you buy from a licensed dealer, they typically handle most of the title paperwork for you. They will collect your payment, give you a temporary registration document (often called a temporary tag or dealer plate), and submit the title transfer to your state on your behalf. You still need to complete your own vehicle registration and pay registration fees, but the dealer's paperwork usually speeds up the process.
Buying from a private seller means you handle more of the work yourself. The seller must sign over the title to you, and you need a bill of sale (a written record of the sale) signed by both parties. You then take both documents to your state's motor vehicle department along with your identification and proof of residency. Some states require the vehicle to pass an inspection before you can title it in your name.
In both cases, you cannot legally drive the vehicle on public roads until you have at least a temporary registration. Driving without one can result in a ticket, even if you have already paid for the car.
Documents you will need to bring
The exact documents vary by state, but most require the following: the signed title from the previous owner, a bill of sale (for private purchases), your government-issued photo ID, and proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease. Some states also require proof of insurance before they will issue a title.
If the previous owner's name does not match the title exactly—for example, if they were married and the title is under a maiden name—you may need additional paperwork such as a marriage certificate or court order. If the title has a lien on it (meaning the previous owner still owes money to a bank or lender), the lender must sign off on the transfer, and you may need to wait until the loan is paid off.
For inherited vehicles, bring the deceased owner's title, a death certificate, and a document proving you are the legal heir, such as a will or court order. Some states require the vehicle to be appraised before you can title it.
Inherited vehicles and special circumstances
Inheriting a car does not automatically put the title in your name. You must go through a formal transfer process with your state's motor vehicle department. The timeline depends on whether the estate has gone through probate court. If it has, you will have a court order naming you as the heir; bring that along with the death certificate and the old title.
If the estate has not gone through probate, some states allow you to transfer the title using an affidavit of heirship or a small estate affidavit, which is faster and cheaper than full probate. Check your state's DMV website to see which documents they accept for inherited vehicles.
Vehicles with salvage titles, flood titles, or branded titles (indicating the car was previously damaged, flooded, or rebuilt) follow the same basic process but may have additional restrictions. Some states do not allow you to register a salvage vehicle for road use, or they require an inspection before you can title it. Check your state's rules before purchasing such a vehicle.
State-by-state differences in fees and timelines
Every state sets its own title and registration fees, which range from under $50 to over $300 depending on the vehicle's value and your location. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge based on the car's age or purchase price. A few states also charge a sales tax on the vehicle, which must be paid before the title is issued.
Processing times also vary. Most states issue a title within two to four weeks of receiving your paperwork. Some offer expedited processing (one to three business days) for an additional fee, usually $10 to $50. A few states allow you to print a temporary title online when ready after submitting your process, so you can drive legally while waiting for the permanent title to arrive by mail.
To find your state's specific fees and timeline, visit your state's motor vehicle department website. Search for "[your state] DMV title transfer" or "[your state] vehicle registration." The website will show you the exact forms to fill out, the documents to bring, the fees, and whether you can submit your process online or must visit in person.
How to submit your process
Most states allow you to submit title and registration paperwork in person at a local DMV office, by mail, or online through their website. Submitting online is usually the fastest option if your state offers it. You will upload photos of your documents, pay the fee by credit card, and receive a confirmation number. Some states then mail you the title; others print it when ready and let you pick it up at a local office.
If you submit by mail, send copies (not originals) of your documents along with the completed process form and a check or money order for the fees. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the DMV can return your documents and the new title. Mail to the address listed on your state's DMV website, and keep a copy of everything you send.
If you submit in person, bring the original documents, your ID, and payment. Bring more than one form of ID if possible. Some DMV offices are very busy; check whether you need an appointment or whether walk-ins are accepted. Many states now let you book an appointment online, which can save you hours of waiting.
What to do if the title is delayed or lost
If you have submitted your paperwork but have not received your title after the expected timeframe, contact your state's DMV to check the status. You can usually do this online, by phone, or by visiting an office in person. Have your confirmation number or process number ready.
If your title arrives but is damaged, has errors, or was lost in the mail, you can request a replacement. Most states issue a duplicate title for a small fee (usually $5 to $25). Fill out a duplicate title form, pay the fee, and submit it to your DMV. The replacement usually arrives within two to four weeks.
If you never received your title and the DMV says they mailed it, file a claim with the postal service. If the DMV has no record of your process, you may need to resubmit it. Keep copies of all your paperwork and correspondence with the DMV in case you need to prove you submitted your process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive the car before I have the title?
No, you cannot legally drive on public roads without at least a temporary registration. Most dealers provide a temporary tag or dealer plate good for 30 to 60 days. If you buy from a private seller, ask the seller if they have a temporary tag, or go to the DMV when ready to get one before driving the vehicle home.
What if the seller will not sign the title?
If the seller refuses to sign the title after you have paid for the car, you have a contract dispute. Contact a local attorney or your state's consumer protection office. Do not drive the vehicle; you have no legal right to it until the title is signed over. Some states allow you to file a complaint with the DMV or take the seller to small claims court.
Do I need a title if I am buying a car to scrap or junk?
Yes, you still need to transfer the title into your name, even if you plan to scrap the vehicle when ready. The junkyard will ask for proof of ownership. After you sell the car to the junkyard, they will handle the title surrender to the state, and the vehicle will be removed from your name.
How long does it take to get a title after buying a car?
Most states issue a title within two to four weeks of receiving your complete process. If you submit online or in person, you may receive a temporary title when ready. Expedited processing, available in some states, can reduce this to one to three business days for an extra fee.
What if I bought the car years ago and never got a title?
You can still obtain a title, but the process may be more complex. Contact your state's DMV and explain the situation. You may need to provide proof of purchase (such as a bill of sale or old insurance documents), proof of residency, and possibly a vehicle inspection. Some states have a process for vehicles with missing titles; your DMV can tell you what applies to your situation.