Related Questions from DMV Answers

• How much does transferring a title for a car cost?

  • Title > Title Transfer

  The amount a title transfer costs varies by state. You must visit your state motor vehicle agency to conduct an official title transfer. Here are current fees by range for each state. Keep in mind that these fees may change...

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• How do I complete a title transfer in Michigan?

  • Title > Title Transfer

  Did you buy your car from a Michigan dealership? If so, the dealer should have taken care of the title transfer process for you. But, if you need to handle your own title application, here's how to do so. MI Title Application Process 1) Go to a SOS office 2) Bring proof of ownership of the vehicle (such as its properly assigned title) 3) Bring proof of auto insurance 4) Bring proof of identification (such as your driver's license) 5) Pay the $15 car title fee 6) Pay the six percent use tax (if applicable) Complete the title transfer first before applying for your vehicle registration. Those who fail to apply for a title within 15 days of the vehicle purchase face a $15 late fee, in addition to the other charges. Title transfers between family members are usually exempt..

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• Where do I go to change the name of the car title?

  • Title > Title Transfer

  Go to the Department of Motor Vehicles or applicable state motor vehicle agency that processes title and registration. States have different procedures. The state may require a new title form. California has you resubmit the title with your new name under the “New Owner” section, and submit a Statement of Facts form; this is essentially a title transfer. Alaska has a nearly identical procedure, except that you just submit a new Application for Title and Registration. Ohio is the only state that will not change your name on the title until it’s time to apply for new license plates. In general, always change your name with the social security administration first, so your records match up...

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• If a family member gives me a car, do I need a gift form to transfer ownership?

  • Buying and Selling > Car Donation and Gifts

  It depends on your state. Check the grid below. Some states waive taxes for recipients of gifts, whether or not the relationship between the giver and receiver is a family one, and oftentimes these states require a gift form or affidavit to verify that the title transfer is a gift transaction. Keep in mind that if your state doesn’t list a gift form it doesn’t mean the recipient isn’t eligible for tax exemption or that there aren’t other special instructions in place for family or gift transfers. Be sure to contact your motor vehicle agency for more information about special instructions, as well as to find out about any tax deduction you can take advantage of if the gift counts as a car donation...

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• Do I need smog certification to complete a title transfer?

  • Title > Title Transfer

  Some states require that the car’s owner provide a smog check or emissions certificate prior to the title transfer, while others make it the buyer’s responsibility to get a smog check, if a smog check is required in the state. Certain states only have smog requirements in higher-population counties. Check with your state’s motor vehicle agency for specifics...

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