Can you purchase a car without a title?

Typically, no. It’s illegal in most states to buy a car without a title.

How do you fix a mistake on the car title?

Contact the appropriate agency in your state. It’s usually the DMV.

How To Transfer The Title Of A Car: A Guide (2026)

Sarah Edwards

Contributor

Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

Editor

February 20, 2026 Read in 3 mins

What Is a Car Title Transfer and Why Is It Important?
How to Transfer a Car Title Step by Step
Car Title Transfer With a Dealership vs. Private Party
How to Transfer a Car Title Across State Lines
How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member
Tips for Transferring a Car Title (Buyers and Sellers)
What to Do if the Title Is Lost, Damaged or Has a Lien
Need Legal Help? Turn to ConsumerShield

Summary

Most states require a transfer of title after a vehicle sale
Always report the sale to avoid liability

If you’re planning on selling or purchasing a vehicle, you’ll need to transfer the title to change ownership. While the specific steps vary among states, here’s how to transfer the title of a car in most cases.

What Is a Car Title Transfer and Why Is It Important?

A car title transfer is the process of changing the ownership of a vehicle from the seller to the buyer. It’s necessary for private sales and gifted or inherited vehicles.

A car title transfer functions as proof of ownership. You cannot register it, receive license plates or drive it legally without the title. The transfer of title also protects you from facing liability for accidents that the new owner causes.

How to Transfer a Car Title Step by Step

Each state has different regulations on how to transfer the title of a car, but typically, the seller signs the title, which releases their ownership. The buyer then takes the release title to the appropriate office. In Florida, for example, they would have to fill out the Application for Certificate of Motor Vehicle Title and take it to the tax collector’s office.

Car Title Transfer With a Dealership vs. Private Party

If you buy a car from a dealership, the title transfer process will be handled for you. That’s not the case with a private sale. When looking to buy or sell a car privately, you must ensure you know what your state requires.

Certain states may even require one of the parties to file a bill of sale. New York, for example, requires that the buyer fill out the bill of sale. There is often confusion regarding the bill of sale vs. title, but a bill of sale functions more like the receipt for the transaction.

How to Transfer a Car Title Across State Lines

You will need to follow your new state’s regulations. Most ask that you submit the signed original title and a bill of sale.

How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member

Transferring a car title to a family member is similar to the process of doing so for anyone else.

Tips for Transferring a Car Title (Buyers and Sellers)

Until the buyer registers the car, the vehicle is the seller’s responsibility. Report the sale to the state’s notice of sale service to limit your liability. In many states, you will need to remove the license plate. Buyers should verify the VIN and the name on the title.

What to Do if the Title Is Lost, Damaged or Has a Lien

If the title is lost or damaged, contact your lender or visit your DMV. If the title has a lien, the debt must be satisfied. You can pay it off or get a lien release.