How To Transfer A Car Title In Illinois (2026)

How to Transfer a Vehicle Title in Illinois

To transfer a title, you’ll need to complete the required documents and pay a fee. You may send the documents by mail, but it’s easier to complete the transfer at an Illinois Secretary of State (ILSOS) facility or a currency exchange.

Documents Required for an Illinois Title Transfer

If you’re wondering how to transfer a car title in Illinois, you should first gather the following:

• A signed-over title
• Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190)
• Valid ID
• Proof of insurance
• Odometer disclosure if the car is less than 10 years old

Once you’ve transferred the title, you can get an Illinois registration in your name.

Illinois Title Transfer Fees and Taxes

In Illinois, the title transfer fee is $165. You also must fill out Form RUT-50 (Private Party Vehicle Use Tax) and pay any applicable taxes.

How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in Illinois

If you’re transferring a car to an immediate family member, the transfer might be tax-exempt. You’ll need to have proof of your relationship.

How to Transfer a Vehicle Title When the Owner Is Deceased

The procedure for transferring a title after the owner’s death depends on whether the owner's estate went through the probate process.

If the Estate Didn’t Go Through Probate

If the deceased person’s estate is under $100,000 and didn’t go through probate, submit these documents to the Office of the Secretary of State:

• A Small Estate Affidavit
• A certified copy of the will, if available
• The car title
• The death certificate
• Form VSD 190

You’ll also need to prove that you have paid any applicable taxes.

If the Estate Went Through Probate

If the decedent’s estate went through probate, you will need fewer documents, but you must be able to prove that the court has given a particular person the authority to manage the estate.

How to Transfer an Out-of-State Vehicle Title to Illinois

Transferring an out-of-state car? Make sure to gather the following:

• Form VSD 190
• Proof of Illinois residency
• The original title and registration
• Tax forms proving taxes were paid

You may also need a copy of the loan agreement or other documentation if the vehicle is still being financed.

Looking for Legal Guidance?

If you need to know more about selling a car privately or how to transfer a car title in Illinois, ConsumerShield is here to help. Take a look at our collection of legal tools and resources today!