Idaho DMV Title Transfer Guide

How To Transfer A Vehicle Title In Idaho

You have to have your car registered and tagged in Idaho to drive it legally, and the first step in that process is to get a title. This article will show you how to transfer a car title, and there are responsibilities for both the buyer and seller.

Title transfer requirements are not real complicated in Idaho, but there are different procedures for different situations.

How Long Do I Have To Transfer A Title In Idaho?

If you move to Idaho from another state, you will need to transfer the title from that state to Idaho within 90 days of establishing a residence in the state. There are some situations where an out of state resident might get an Idaho title, and there are exceptions for military personnel.

If you buy a car from a dealership or an individual you have 30 days to get the title transferred.

What Do You Need To Transfer A Car Title In Idaho?

Normally getting the title and registration are handled in the same transaction, but getting the title is the starting point. Very simply put, the buyer and seller sign the title, take the signed title to the DMV, pay the title transfer fees, fill out an application for a title which is the DMV title transfer form, and you will get a new Idaho title.

If you are transferring from another state, you will need the title from your previous state, and a means of identification.  Your driver’s license will usually suffice. You will have to complete an application for a title, and then pay the fee. If you purchase a car from a dealer – whether new or used – the dealer will normally take care of the titling process, but you can do it on your own if you wish.

You will need a completed bill of sale, and an odometer disclosure form if the car is less than 10 years old. If the car is being titled in Idaho for the first time you will need a VIN inspection, which checks for stolen cars and cars used in committing a crime.  Sales tax must also be paid, and if you have already paid it, you may show a receipt.

You may do this at a DMV office, and in some cases, you may do it by mail.

It is also important to note, if you are not a dealer, you will have to put the car in your name before you can legally sell the vehicle. You must also put the purchase price on the title, and putting in the wrong amount is a felony.

If you need help with how to fill out transfer of title form, your local DMV office, or the state website can help.

How Much Does It Cost To Transfer A Car Title In Idaho?

The basic how much is a title transfer cost is $14. You also have to show you have paid sales tax as well.

If the vehicle is being titled for the first time in Idaho from another state, there is a $5 charge for a VIN inspection. There is also a $14 charge for a duplicate title. The process usually takes two weeks, but a rush processing is available for $26.

Sometimes you may need to temporarily stop the transfer of a title, and that costs $21.

How To Request A Duplicate Title In Idaho

Requesting a duplicate title is relatively easy, and costs the same as the original title. You might need to do this if yours is lost or destroyed, and there may be other reasons as well.

This may be done by mail, and you have to fill out a request form, which includes your reason for wanting a duplicate title.

How To Transfer Ownership Of A Car Without A Title In Idaho

You have to have an Idaho title to transfer ownership, and you have to have that before the car can be registered and legally driven in the state. You can try contacting the seller and try to get them to get a duplicate title if you do not have it. You may also do a records search to find the last person that owned a title to the car.

There are cases when law enforcement sells abandoned vehicles or vehicles that have been confiscated. If there is no title available for these cars, you may use the bill of sale and VIN number and get an affidavit notarized stating the situation.

My Car Title Was Signed But Never Transferred. What Do I Do?

The seller is responsible for signing the title over, and the buyer is responsible for signing it and getting the new title. If you have sold the car, signed the title, and it has never been registered or titled, you could request a temporary stop on the title.

If you are the buyer, and it has been signed, you should be able to get it registered if the seller has signed the title over to you.

Titling A Salvaged Vehicle In Idaho

Cars can be declared salvaged when there is extensive damage and most of the vehicle is replaced, or even if two cars are put together. The name on the title of the primary part is the official title holder of the car. You may get a title that way.

You may also wait 30 days and get a salvage title after filling out the necessary forms.

How To Transfer A Car Title To A Family Member In Idaho

To transfer a car title to a family member, you will need a Sales Tax Exemption Certificate and follow the normal process of applying for the title transfer. The person giving the car is listed as the seller and the person receiving the gift is the buyer. Even so, you do not have to have a price on the car, but remember that doing this fraudulently is a crime.

There are no taxes due on a car that is a gift. There is also a process for giving a car to a non-profit organization.  If you inherit a vehicle, you will need the original title, proof of insurance, the tax exemption certificate, and the fee for the transfer.

How To Transfer An Idaho Car Title When Owner Is Deceased

If there is a person with power of attorney they may act as a legal representative of a deceased person and sign the title as the seller. This would also be the case if a car were left to someone in a will.

If there is no power of attorney and no will, you may apply for a title with a death certificate after 30 days. You may do this process by mail.

Idaho DMV Hours And Contact Information

If you have further questions or need more information on any topic regarding your automobile, you may contact your local DMV office. You may also consult the state DMV website.

Common Questions About Idaho Title Transfer

Are there any questions about transferring a car title that we didn’t cover?

We are constantly updating our content and welcome your feedback. Leave us a comment and let us know any other questions you might have regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of Idaho.