How to get a car title transfer in a new state
Auto repair

How to get a car title transfer in a new state

08.11.2022 /

One thing to keep in mind when moving to another state is that you may need to change the name of your car in your new state of residence.

Vehicle title is a legal document issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that lists the owner or owners of the vehicle. It can also be called the title car, or Pink Slip.

Most states require you to show proof of ownership before registering your vehicle and purchasing new license plates. Many states give you up to 30 days before you register your vehicle at a new address, and many states allow you to register using a title that was issued in your previous state.

Your best bet is to check your new state's DMV website to check the legality of your vehicle registration and determine if you are legally required to purchase a new title.

Even if your state does not require you to purchase a new title, you can still do so. For example, if you end up wanting to sell your car, it may be easier to do so while owning the property in the state. Some states, such as New York, require you to re-title after you have paid your financial obligations on a vehicle with a lien.

Whether you are required by law to recertify your vehicle title or prefer to do so anyway, here are a few simple steps to get you started.

Part 1 of 1: Transfer your car ownership in another state

Step 1: Collect all documents. Gather all of your legal documents to show to the DMV or Department of Transportation (DOT) in your new state of residence, including vehicle ownership. Keep all documents in a folder so nothing gets lost.

If you do not have title (perhaps you have an older car and your previous state did not require you to have title), bring your registration information. If you have lived in a state that allows lien holders to retain ownership of the vehicle until the lien is paid off, such as New York, bring your loan papers.

  • AttentionA: You will need to prove that you are a resident of the new state, so bring your apartment rental or mortgage documents. Also, bring a valid photo ID, driver's license (even from your old state), or military ID as proof of your identity.

  • FunctionsA: Make sure you have the original documents, not copies, so there are no discrepancies in the DMV or DOT. Otherwise, you may have to leave and come back again with the correct documents.

Step 2: Perform Vehicle Inspection and Emissions Tests. Some states require vehicle inspections and emissions tests in order to issue a new vehicle.

If your state requires it, make sure you have proof that all required checks and tests have been carried out and that your vehicle has passed the tests.

  • FunctionsA: You may also need to prove that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the vehicle matches the one on the title, so it doesn't hurt to double check. The VIN number is usually printed on a metal plate on the door sill on the driver's side.

Step 3: Make an appointment at the DMV. Make an appointment with the DMV by calling or visiting your state's DMV website.

  • Functions: While you're on the phone, ask the DMV worker what documents you need to bring with you so you don't miss anything important. In addition, you can also check the list of required documents online.

Step 4: Pay the reissuance fee. Assuming everything goes smoothly at the meeting with the DMV, you will need to pay the title change fee.

Since reissuance fees vary by state, it is recommended that you check the fees for your state on the DMV website.

Step 5: Get a new vehicle name. Submit your old title to the DMV and wait for the new title to be received.

  • AttentionA: If you are the owner, you will receive a new title in the mail as new fraud laws prohibit the DMV or DOT from printing and issuing documents directly.

  • AttentionA: If your car is in a lien, the title will be sent to the lien holder instead.

If you are moving to a new state, you may need to rename your vehicle to the new state. Many states give you at least 30 days to register your car at a new address. It is always best to follow the recommended registration or name change process as outlined on your new state's DMV website in order to meet all legal requirements for your new state.

Add a comment