How to Transfer Ownership of a Car in North Dakota

In the state of North Dakota, the ownership of a vehicle is listed in the title of the vehicle. This document proves that you are the owner and not someone else. When ownership changes as a result of the sale, gift or inheritance of a vehicle, ownership must be transferred to the new owner. While the process required to transfer ownership of a car in North Dakota is not that complicated, there are a few things you need to know.

What Buyers Should Know

For buyers, the process of transferring ownership is relatively simple. However, it depends on whether the seller fills out all the documents correctly. Here is what you should do:

• Make sure the seller has filled out the title completely, including the part disclosing the odometer information. Vehicles exempt from this include any vehicles over 10 years old, vehicles over 16,000 pounds, and ATVs/snowmobiles.

• Complete an application for a certificate of ownership and vehicle registration.

• Complete a Damage/Scrap Application for vehicles over 9 years old.

• Have proof of insurance.

• Get a release from the seller.

• Have a valid driver's license.

• Bring all of this information to the DOT office along with the $5 title transfer fee and money for the registration fee.

Common Mistakes

• Do not get release from arrest

What Sellers Should Know

As a seller, you are responsible for completing the information on the back of the title, but you also have other responsibilities.

• Complete the fields on the back of the header accurately. If the vehicle is not released, this includes the odometer reading.

• Complete and provide the buyer with a Damage/Disposal Statement (applies to all vehicles under 9 years old, including cars, trucks and motorcycles).

• Give the buyer a release from the bond.

Common Mistakes

• Failure to provide the buyer with a release from the bond

• Inaccurate title filling

What you need to know about gifting and inheriting a car in North Dakota

The process for donating a car is the same as described above. Title transfer fees and registration costs must be paid by the recipient. This also applies to vehicle donations.

For legacy vehicles, the process is similar, but there are a few key differences:

• The representative of the deceased must complete the seller's title.

• Copies of papers must be provided.

For more information on how to transfer ownership of a car in North Dakota, visit the state DOT website.