How to transfer ownership of a car to a family member?

Can You Transfer a Title Online?

Thinking about selling a car? Perhaps you want to pass it on to someone as a gift, but don't know how? Of course, in order to do this, you must legally transfer ownership of the vehicle. If you don't follow the rules, you and the buyer can get in big trouble with the law.

Of course, the process of transferring a car title may vary from state to state, but most of the rules are the same for all of them. Unfortunately, you cannot simply transfer ownership of the vehicle to another person. In order for the transfer to be legal, you need to take into account all the title loan laws, established by both the state and the nation.

Can the title be transferred?

Many people don't think about this when they want to sell a car, but the first thing you need to do is to make sure if it can be transferred.

First, take a look at the title of the car. If it has only your name on it, then the car is yours and you have the right to transfer ownership at any time.

However, be careful, as the title may contain the name of the bank or creditor, and it will complicate your task of transferring ownership. In the case of joint ownership of a vehicle with a creditor, spouse or other person, you must understand that both parties must agree to transfer the title.

Also in the case of co-ownership, there is one exception that may give you an advantage. If it says that you or someone else has a title to the property, it means that only one owner has to give permission to transfer. Thus, make sure you are the sole owner before looking for a buyer for your car.

What are the main types of car title transfers?

1. Simple translations.

Simple translations are carried out if you are the only owner of the car. In order to transfer ownership to a person, you need to fill out a title certificate. After completing and signing the certificate, the buyer is officially the owner and can transfer ownership to anyone if necessary.

2. Transfers with the help of dealers

You need to use a dealer in the event that you want to transfer the car to a store or car dealership, and not to an individual. In this case, you need to notify the DMV about the sale of the vehicle to the car dealership. You may need to complete a Vehicle Transfer Notice Form to confirm the transfer as some state laws require this.

3. Transfers with the help of lenders

You need to contact the lender for help if you are still paying for the car to the bank or other lender. Thus, if your car has a lien, only the lender will be able to offer you options for transferring ownership. Typically, in this case, there are several options. The lender can oblige you to pay off the loan for the car or part of it, or you can transfer responsibility for the lien to the new owner.

What if you lost your title?

Of course, such documents as Car titles must be in a protected place, but there are situations when we lose valuable documents when we move or in other circumstances. If you are unable to find a title, then you need to contact the nearest DMV. This must be done before selling a vehicle. To solve the problem, you will need to make a duplicate title, and this service is often paid.

How much does a title transfer cost?

As a rule, the transfer of ownership comes at a cost and varies from state to state. In general, fees are nominal and vary depending on the situation. The usual cost is between $ 5 and $ 25 depending on the state. There are also times when the payment goes down or when you don't have to pay at all. For details, check the laws of your state to know what conditions you can apply for.