How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in Illinois

Without a title in your name, it is impossible to prove ownership of the vehicle. Obviously, when changing ownership, ownership of the car must be transferred to the name of the new owner. This applies to buying or selling a car, as well as giving it to a family member or inheriting a car. When it comes time to transfer ownership of a car in Illinois, there are a few things everyone involved needs to know.

What buyers need to do

For buyers in Illinois, the process of transferring ownership isn't particularly complicated, and the state's online DMV system makes everything easy. Here's what you need to do:

• Make sure you get the full title from the seller. It must include the VIN and the seller must complete the "Titling" section on the back of the title. Including odometer readings.
• Fill out an application for a vehicle deal.
• Obtain and complete the Private Vehicle Tax Transaction Form, which can only be found at your local SOS office.
• Pay the $95 Title Transfer Fee. There are other fees that may also be charged, including the following:
  • Name change: $15 per name.
  • Duplicate title (if lost): $95.
  • Deceased owner to co-owner (name in title with deceased's name): $15.
  • Legacy vehicle (no name on deceased's title): $95.

Common Mistakes

• Failure to receive a private vehicle tax transaction form at the SOS office.

What sellers need to know

Like buyers, sellers must follow certain steps to transfer ownership of a car in Illinois. Here they are:

• Complete the back of the title, including the entire "Titling" section. Be sure to include mileage, date of sale, buyer's name, and put your signature on the title.
• Take off your license plates. These stay with you.
• Fill out the seller's report on the sale and send it to SOS by mail (the address is indicated in the form).

Donated and inherited cars

If you are gifting a car to a family member or receiving a car as a gift, you will need to follow the same steps as the standard buying/selling process above. However, if you're inheriting a vehicle, there are a few key differences.

• If there is only one owner on a title, the transfer process will be handled by the estate. If there is more than one owner, ownership passes to the other person named on the title and a $15 transfer fee is charged.
• You will need a title given to you by your executor.
• You will need a copy of the administration letter.
• If the will is not probate and the value is $100,000 or less, you will need to provide SOS with a copy of the will (notarized), a copy of the death certificate, a small affidavit with vehicle information (VIN, make, model, etc.). ) and title.

For more information on how to transfer ownership of a car in Illinois, visit the State SOS website.