How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in Ohio

The State of Ohio requires all vehicles to show the current owner. When there is a change in ownership, whether by purchase, sale, inheritance, donation or donation, the ownership must be changed to reflect the change and so that the name of the current owner is removed and the ownership is transferred to the name of the new owner. The state requires some specific steps, and there are a few things you need to know in order to transfer ownership of a car in Ohio.

Buying from a private seller

It is important to note that the process of buying from a dealer and from a private seller is different. The dealer will handle the transfer of ownership for you, even if you are buying a used car. However, if you are buying from a private seller, you are responsible for managing the title. Here's what you need to do:

• Make sure the seller fills out the back of the header completely, including the odometer reading. The name must also be notarized.

• Except where the vehicle is inherited or weighs over 16,000 pounds, an odometer disclosure statement must be included with the title.

• Get a release from the seller.

• Availability of car insurance.

• Take this information to your local title deed along with the $15 transfer fee.

Common Mistakes

• Incomplete heading

I will sell a car

If you are an individual selling a car, understand that it is the buyer's responsibility to transfer ownership and it is your responsibility to make it possible. You should:

• Carefully fill out the reverse side of the title and be sure to notarize it.

• Make sure the buyer signs the odometer reading.

• Take off your license plates.

• Give the buyer a release from the bond.

Common Mistakes

• No guarantee of notarization of the title after signing

Vehicle Inheritance and Donation in Ohio

To donate a car in Ohio, follow the same steps as listed above. However, inheriting a car is a little different.

• Surviving spouses can inherit up to two cars from the deceased.

• A Surviving Spouse Affidavit must be completed and filed (only available at the Property Registry Office).

• A death certificate must be provided in all cases of inheritance.

• If the will is contested, the ownership of the vehicle will be decided by the court.

• Co-owners named in the title deed can make the transfer to themselves (and must provide a death certificate when filing with the title office).

For more information on how to transfer ownership of a car in Ohio, visit the state BMV website.