How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in Oregon

The State of Oregon requires all vehicles to have a title and that the name of the current owner be included in the title. When a car is bought or sold, the name must be updated to reflect the name of the new owner. The same applies to donations of vehicles, inheriting a car or donating it to someone. When it comes to how to transfer ownership of a car in Oregon, there are a few important steps that need to be followed, and they vary depending on the situation.

Buyers and Vehicle Transfers in Oregon

If you buy a car from a dealer, they will take care of the transfer process. However, if you are buying a car from a private seller, things are different. It is your responsibility to ensure that the name is transferred to your name. For this you need:

• Make sure the seller completes the back of the title and signs it in your name. By filling in the reverse side of the name, the seller releases his interest. This can also be done with a bill of sale.

• Make sure the seller releases you from the bond. Please note that if the car is seized, the owner cannot sell it. Instead, the collateral holder must handle the process.

• The odometer reading must appear on the title or on the Odometer Disclosure Statement, which is available from the DMV. Please note that this applies to vehicles under 10 years old.

• Fill out an application for ownership and registration.

• Get car insurance.

• Bring this information, along with the transfer money and registration fee, to the DMV office (the transfer fee is $77). Alternatively, you can send it all to the following address:

Oregon DMV

1905 Lana Avenue NE

Salem, OR 97314

Common Mistakes

• Do not get release from arrest
• Not guaranteeing the mileage is recorded

Sellers and Transfers of Vehicle Ownership in Oregon

If you are a private seller, you need to follow a few steps:

• Sign the title to the buyer.
• Release your interest in the car by completing the back of the title deed or bill of sale.
• Give the buyer a release from the bond.
• Make sure the odometer reading is recorded on the header or on the Odometer Disclosure Statement (available from the DMV).

Common Mistakes

• Failure to grant bail

For inheritance and donation of a car

If you're donating a car, just follow the steps above. If you inherit a car, you will need to take additional steps and these will vary depending on the situation.

• If your name is on a title, you will need to provide the DMV with a death certificate and current title, as well as other documentation mentioned above.

• If the property is under a will, you will need a copy of the will, current title, an interest release form signed by the executor, a statement of title and registration, and an odometer reading.

• If the property is not bequeathed, you will need an Affidavit of Succession, title, declaration, release from lien and odometer reading.

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