How To Transfer A Car Title To A Family Member (2026)

What Is a Car Title and Why Is It Important?

Before learning how to transfer a car title to a family member, it helps to know why you should in the first place. A car title represents who legally owns a vehicle. When you transfer the title, you officially change the car’s ownership.

This is important because, if the new owner gets into a car accident, the title change would protect you from being liable.

What to Do Before You Transfer a Car Title

To prepare for the transfer, ensure there are no liens on the vehicle or that you have a lien release. You should also check that the VIN matches and that you get an accurate odometer reading.

How to Transfer a Car Title When Selling to a Family Member

How to transfer a car title to a family member may differ in your specific state, but generally, you will need to sign the title, complete a bill of sale for the car with the price of the vehicle and file a sales tax exemption form, if applicable. While both documents are often used together, the title legally transfers ownership, whereas the bill of sale simply serves as a record of the transaction.

Whether the recipient can be exempted from paying taxes will depend on the state. In Massachusetts, for example, parents, children, spouses and siblings are exempted and must fill out the appropriate sales tax exemption form.

How to Transfer a Car Title When Gifting to a Family Member

If you’re gifting the vehicle, the car title will note “Gift” written where the sale price goes. You will not need a bill of sale. The other party will need to take it to the DMV to register the vehicle under their name.

Fees and Taxes for Transferring a Car Title to a Family Member

Many states, such as California, have tax exemptions, but there will still be fees to pay.. These can vary by state and could range from $10 to $100. In Texas, for example, you can pay up to $33 for a title transfer.

How to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in Another State

When transferring a car title to someone in another state, you may need to get a vehicle emissions test to register the car. You may also need to get a VIN inspection. You can then sign the title and the other party can register the vehicle at their DMV.

Have Legal Questions? We Have Answers

The team at ConsumerShield provides education and tools to people needing legal help across the country. Check out our online resources today.