How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in Pennsylvania
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Like other states in the country, Pennsylvania requires most vehicles to be titled and that title be in the name of the owner. When ownership changes, ownership must be transferred to the new owner. Changes may be related to the sale of the car, its gift or donation, as well as the receipt of the car by inheritance. However, the state imposes very strict requirements on the transfer of ownership process, especially when the process includes a private sale.
What buyers and sellers need to know
The State of Pennsylvania requires both the buyer and the seller to work together with the DMV to transfer ownership to the new owner. This is optional (some states allow buyers and sellers to act on their own).
What sellers must provide
When you and the buyer go to the DMV, you will need to provide certain information and documents.
You need a current title, fully completed and including mileage. Do not sign the title before arriving at the DMV.
You need a valid government issued ID.
You and the buyer will need to sign the title deed at the DMV where a government official can oversee the process. Do not sign before then.
Remove license plates only after ownership has been transferred. They can be put on a new car or handed over to the DMV, but they do not go to the buyer.
What buyers need to provide
Like sellers, buyers must follow several steps in the process of transferring ownership. They are the following:
You must insure the car and provide proof before transferring ownership. You will need to show insurance when you and the seller visit the DMV.
You must sign the title in front of the DMV officer at the office.
You must have a state-issued driver's license.
You must complete all fields in the title, including your personal information (name, address, etc.).
You must complete a Vehicle Sales and Use Tax Return/Registration Application, which is available from the DMV office (not online).
You must pay for the title transfer at that time. The fee is $51.
You will pay sales tax depending on your location, which ranges from 6% to 8% of the car's selling price.
You have 10 days to register the car in your name, or you can register it during the transfer of ownership.
What to do with car donations and inheritances
With a donated vehicle, the process is the same as described above. Both the donor (owner) and the recipient must appear together at the DMV. The same documents are required with the addition of an affidavit of donation.
For a legacy vehicle, you will also need to appear in person at the DMV. However, the rest of the process varies depending on the inheritance situation. Legacy vehicle laws in Pennsylvania are complex, and the state has created a solid guide to explain the various situations and processes that apply.
For more information on how to transfer ownership of a car in Pennsylvania, visit the state DOT/DMV website.
