What you need to do to get a car title
A car title is a legal document that proves you own the vehicle. To get one, you submit paperwork to your state's motor vehicle department—the name varies by state (Department of Motor Vehicles, Secretary of State, or similar)—along with proof of purchase and proof of identity. The process differs depending on whether you bought the car new, used, or inherited it, and whether the previous owner still holds the title.
Most states issue the title within two to four weeks of receiving a complete process, though some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. You cannot legally drive the car on public roads without at least a temporary registration, which you usually receive at the same time you explore for the title.
Key Takeaways
- You must submit an process form, proof of ownership (bill of sale or purchase agreement), and proof of identity to your state's motor vehicle department to receive a title.
- If you bought the car from a dealer, they often handle the title paperwork for you, but you remain responsible for following up if it does not arrive within the expected timeframe.
- If you bought from a private seller, you must obtain the signed title from them and submit it along with your process; a bill of sale alone does not transfer ownership.
- Inherited vehicles require a death certificate and proof of your relationship to the deceased, plus the original title if it exists.
- Temporary registration allows you to drive legally while waiting for the permanent title; driving without either is illegal and can result in fines or vehicle impoundment.
Getting a title after buying from a dealer
When you buy a car from a licensed dealership, the dealer is responsible for submitting the title process to your state's motor vehicle department on your behalf. You sign the paperwork at the dealership, and they handle the filing. This is the simplest path because the dealer knows your state's specific requirements and has already processed hundreds of titles.
The dealer will give you a temporary registration document (sometimes called a temporary tag or temporary permit) that allows you to drive the car home and legally operate it for 30 to 60 days while the permanent title is being processed. Keep this document in your vehicle. The permanent title arrives by mail at the address you provided on the purchase agreement, usually within two to four weeks.
If the title does not arrive within the timeframe the dealer quoted, contact the dealership directly. They can check the status with the motor vehicle department. Do not assume the paperwork was filed correctly—follow up if you have not received it by the important date.
Getting a title after buying from a private seller
When you buy a car from a private individual, you must obtain the signed title document from the seller before you can transfer ownership to yourself. The title is a physical certificate with the seller's name printed on it; it is not the same as a bill of sale or a receipt. The seller must sign the back of the title in the section marked for the seller's signature, and you must sign in the buyer's section.
You will also need a bill of sale—a written record of the sale that includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), the sale price, the date, and both signatures. Many states provide a bill of sale form on their motor vehicle department website, or you can write one yourself as long as it includes those details. The bill of sale serves as proof of the transaction if questions arise later.
Take the signed title, the bill of sale, and your process form to your state's motor vehicle department in person, or mail them if your state allows it. You will also need proof of identity and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease agreement). The motor vehicle department will process your process and issue a new title in your name. You will receive a temporary registration to drive the car legally while waiting for the permanent title.
Getting a title for an inherited vehicle
If you inherit a car, the process depends on whether the deceased owner's name is still on the title. You will need the original title (if it exists), a certified copy of the death certificate, and proof of your relationship to the deceased—usually a birth certificate or marriage certificate showing your connection to the person who owned the car.
Some states require you to go through probate court before you can transfer the title, especially if the estate is being settled through the court system. Other states allow direct transfer if the vehicle is not part of a contested estate. Contact your state's motor vehicle department or a probate attorney to find out which process applies in your situation, because the rules vary significantly by state and by the size of the estate.
Once you have the required documents, submit them to the motor vehicle department along with an process for title transfer. The department will issue a new title in your name. This process typically takes longer than a standard purchase transfer—often four to eight weeks—because the motor vehicle department must verify the death certificate and your legal right to the vehicle.
What documents you need for each situation
| Situation | Documents Required | Who Submits |
|---|---|---|
| Buying from a dealer | Purchase agreement (signed at dealership), proof of identity, proof of residency | Dealer submits on your behalf |
| Buying from a private seller | Signed title from seller, bill of sale, proof of identity, proof of residency | You submit to motor vehicle department |
| Inheriting a vehicle | Original title, certified death certificate, proof of relationship, proof of identity | You submit to motor vehicle department (may require probate court first) |
| Buying a salvage or rebuilt vehicle | Salvage title or rebuilt title from previous owner, proof of inspection (if required), proof of identity | You submit to motor vehicle department |
Understanding temporary registration and permanent titles
Temporary registration is not the same as a title. It is a short-term permit that allows you to drive the car legally while the permanent title is being processed. It is usually printed on a sticker or a paper document and must be displayed on your vehicle. Temporary registration typically lasts 30 to 60 days, depending on your state.
The permanent title is the official ownership document issued by your state. It has your name printed on it, along with the vehicle's VIN, the odometer reading at the time of transfer, and the lien holder's name if you financed the car. You should keep the title in a safe place—not in the car—because it is the proof of ownership. If you lose it, you will need to request a replacement from your motor vehicle department, which takes additional time and may cost a fee.
If you sell the car later, you will sign the back of the title and give it to the buyer. If you finance the car, the lender's name appears on the title as the lienholder until you pay off the loan. Once the loan is paid, the lender sends a release document to the motor vehicle department, and a new title is issued with your name as the sole owner.
Common delays and how to avoid them
The most common reason for delays is incomplete paperwork. If your process is missing a signature, a required document, or has incorrect information, the motor vehicle department will reject it and send it back. This can add two to four weeks to the process. Before you submit anything, check your state's motor vehicle department website for a checklist of required documents specific to your situation.
Another frequent issue is a mismatch between the name on the title and the name on your identification. If you recently married, divorced, or changed your name, make sure the name on your process matches the name on your ID exactly. If they do not match, bring a legal name-change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to support the change.
If you bought the car from a private seller and the seller's signature on the title is missing or illegible, the motor vehicle department cannot process it. You will need to contact the seller and ask them to sign again or provide a corrected title. This is why it is important to check the title before you hand over payment—do not assume the seller will be straightforward to reach later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive the car before the title arrives?
Yes, you can drive with temporary registration, which you receive when you submit your title process or at the dealership. Temporary registration is legal for 30 to 60 days. After that period ends, you must have the permanent title or a renewed temporary registration to drive legally. Driving without either is illegal and can result in fines or vehicle impoundment.
What if the seller will not sign the title?
Do not complete the purchase. A title transfer requires the seller's signature on the back of the title document. If the seller refuses to sign, they are not transferring ownership to you, and you do not own the car. Walk away from the deal. If you have already paid, consult a lawyer about your options for recovering the money.
How much does it cost to get a title?
Title fees vary by state and range from roughly $10 to $100 for a standard transfer. Some states charge extra for expedited processing or for replacing a lost title. Check your state's motor vehicle department website for the exact fee schedule. Dealers typically include the title fee in the purchase price, but private sales require you to pay the fee yourself.
What if I bought the car but the previous owner never transferred the title to me?
Contact the previous owner and ask them to sign and mail you the title. If they refuse or are unreachable, you may need to file a complaint with your state's motor vehicle department or consult a lawyer. Some states allow you to file for a title in your name if you can prove you own the car (with a bill of sale and proof of payment), but this process varies by state and can be lengthy.
Do I need the title to register the car?
No. You can register the car using temporary registration while you wait for the title. However, you will need the title to transfer ownership to someone else later or to prove ownership if there is a dispute. Registration and title are separate documents—registration allows you to drive; the title proves you own the vehicle.