Here at eTags we like to talk shop. If it’s related to vehicles in any way, shape, or form, chances are it’s in the lineup for topics we’re going to discuss. And we’re not overly picky either: if it involves wheels and a motor, we’re interested.
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Admittedly, however, there is some content that’s a bit more exciting than others. Like, for example, highlighting the pros and cons of battery-operated vehicles as compared to gas-powered, the rise of autonomous cars versus the fight to keep humans behind the wheel, or petrol compared to diesel, or manual shift as opposed to automatic. People tend to have opinions about these things, as they generally fall under the category of stuff you can make a choice with. Whereas there are some nitty-gritties that we are all subject to, that are slightly less interesting, if not of utmost importance.
What do we mean by that? Well, for example, the subject of vehicle titles. Sure, it’s not the world’s most invigorating subject, and may not spark debates or heated discussions, but nevertheless, understanding what a title is, how it works, and why it is important, is, well…important.
Thus, we thought we’d outline the specifics of vehicle titles. So that whether it’s your first time buying a car, truck, motorcycle, SUV, or RV, or your 100th time, this could help to give you a better understanding of the importance of the title document. Here goes:
What is a Vehicle Title?
A vehicle certificate of title (applicable to any motorized or non-motorized vehicle, such as a 5th wheel trailer) is a legal document that states the different attributes of the vehicle as well as declares ownership by an individual, couple, or business. Most titles will include information such as:
- VIN (Vehicle identification number)
- Make, model, and year
- Issue date
- Owner(s) full name and address
- Odometer reading
- Signatures of buyer and seller (when transferring ownership)
What is a Title Transfer?
A title transfer occurs when one party sells, gifts, or donates a vehicle, thereby transferring ownership to a new party.
For example, when purchasing a used vehicle, the previous owner will transfer the title to the buyer by signing his/her/their name(s) as the seller, while the purchaser(s) sign(s) as the buyer. Transferring a title indicates the transfer of ownership from one party to another.
When Specifically Do I Need to Transfer a Title?
There are many circumstances in which a title will need to be transferred. The list of these instances include:
- Selling or buying a vehicle
- Gifting a car to a friend or family member
- Receiving a car as a gift from a friend or family member
- Inheriting a car from a deceased person
- Satisfying a loan (lien) and becoming full owner of a vehicle
- Adding, removing, or correcting a name on a title
What Does a Lien on a Title mean?
A title with a lien indicates that another party (usually a bank or other lending institution) currently has ownership of the vehicle, pending the full repayment of a loan. Once the car has been paid off, the title will then be transferred to the person who has satisfied the lien, thereby changing the name on the front of the title, making that person the new owner.
What If I Lost or Damaged My Title?
When a title has been lost or damaged (this is often called defaced, and refers to erasures, cross-outs, or other markings that render the title unusable) you have the option to request a replacement from the state. This new title will reflect the same information as the original title, but is called a replacement or a duplicate title.
Can I Transfer a Title That Has a Correction?
Unfortunately, most states will not accept titles that have been defaced. If you make an error whilst filling in your personal information or odometer reading, do not cross it out or attempt to erase it. First contact your local DMV and ask if they will accept a notarized letter of correction, which states that the error was an accident and that no fraud was intended. If your state does not allow this, you will need to apply for a duplicate title.
What Kind of Information Do I Need to Transfer a Title?
To transfer a title as part of a sale or gift, you will need to have the seller’s signature in the appropriate space. If there are two owners, and their names are joined with “Or” on the front of the title, only one owner is required to sign as seller. However, if the two names are joined by “And” then both owners must sign as seller. For the buyer, there must also be a signature in the appropriate space. Most titles allow for two buyers to sign, if co-ownership is the case. Both parties (buyer and seller) will need to provide full legal address, date of sale, and the sale price. Depending on the birth year of the car (and whether it has an engine – 5th wheels do not, for example) you may need to fill in the odometer reading as well.
In some states, the buyer and seller signatures will need to be performed in the presence of a notary public who will witness, stamp, and sign the title as well.
Do I Need a Title to Register a Vehicle?
Absolutely. You cannot register any car, truck, SUV, or RV without proof of ownership. And a title is your proof of ownership in almost all cases. Generally, title transfers and registrations are performed simultaneously at dealerships, but if you are purchasing through a casual sale and have the title signed over to you, you will need this document in order to obtain registration.
Once I Have My Title Signed Over, Then What?
If you are planning to drive the vehicle, you will need to register it. You will hand over the signed title to the DMV, who will issue your registration and then send a new title to you with your name on the front.
And there you have them – the key points to vehicle titles and transfers. And guess what, you’re totally in the right place if you need to transfer a title and get registration. At eTags, it’s what we do. Head over to our site and let us assist you with this process quickly and easily. Because, as you know…we’re here to help!
