Title Transfer in Missouri
All you need for a title transfer in Missouri is a certificate of title, a completed Missouri title application, and a few other documents.
Written by R.E. Fulton
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Table of Contents
- What is a title transfer?
- Car title transfer in Missouri
- Registering a car in Missouri
- Finding insurance for your vehicle
- FAQs
Load full table of contents
To sell or
buy a car in Missouri
or to transfer ownership from out of state
, you’ll need to complete a title transfer. Missouri’s Department of Revenue sets an $8.50 fee on title transfers, plus registration and processing fees based on your vehicle’s taxable horsepower. RECOMMENDED
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What is a title transfer?
A
car’s title
certifies the owner’s legal right to the vehicle. A title transfer is the process of legally transferring ownership of the vehicle from one person to another. There are two basic steps to any title transfer. First, the seller must sign the title, thereby releasing their ownership of the vehicle as well as all financial obligations. Then, the buyer must take the signed title to the DMV and apply for a new title and registration.
Apart from those basic steps, the process for a title transfer varies from state to state. Some states require additional paperwork or supplemental information, such as an odometer report or a purchase price.
Who does the title transfer?
Any time a car changes hands, somebody will need to complete a title transfer. If you’re buying a car from a dealership, your dealer will likely handle all the necessary paperwork. However, if you
sell or buy a car privately
, you’ll need to work with the other party to complete the title transfer together. Reasons for a title transfer
You might need to complete a title transfer for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common reasons for a title transfer include:
- A change of residency
- Buying or selling a car
- Donating or gifting a car
- Inheriting a car
- Paying off a car loan
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Car title transfer in Missouri
In Missouri, you have 30 days from either your residency start date (for out-of-state title transfers) or the date of purchase (for in-state title transfers) to complete the transfer of a vehicle’s title. You can complete the title transfer at the nearest Department of Revenue (DOR) location or send your materials in the mail.
Here’s the basic documentation you’ll need for a title transfer:
- A completedApplication for Missouri Title and License
- Driver’s license numberVehicle license plate numberVehicle identification number (VIN)Vehicle make and model yearPurchase date and priceName and address of the legal vehicle owner
- Proof of vehicle identification number (VIN) and odometer inspection
If you’re transferring a title from out of state, you’ll also need:
- Your out-of-state title
- A Statement of Non-Assessment from your county assessor’s office
If you’re transferring a title between two Missouri residents, you’ll need:
The Missouri DOR charges an $8.50 titling fee along with a $6.00 processing fee, plus sales tax if applicable.
Registering a car in Missouri
Once you’ve transferred the title, you’ll need to
register your car
. Registration proves that your vehicle is permitted to legally drive on the streets, and it’s an annual process. Missouri charges a registration fee based on your car’s taxable horsepower. The registration fees are as follows:
Taxable horsepower | 1-year fee | 2-year fee |
|---|---|---|
Under 12 | $18.25 | $36.50 |
12-23 hp | $21.25 | $42.50 |
24-35 hp | $24.25 | $48.50 |
36-47 hp | $33.25 | $66.50 |
48-59 hp | 39.25 | $78.50 |
60-71 hp | $45.25 | $90.50 |
72+ hp | $51.25 | $102.50 |
Taxable horsepower is calculated based on vehicle type. You can find your car’s taxable horsepower using
this chart
from the DOR. Finding insurance for your vehicle
Whether you’re transferring a title from out of state or buying a new vehicle, you must have proof of insurance to complete the process. You can save money on
car insurance
while still meeting the legal requirements
by downloading the Jerry
app. As a licensed insurance broker, Jerry will compare rates from
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and find you the lowest rate available
. Once you’ve chosen the quote that works for you, Jerry handles all the paperwork to get you switched over to your new low rate. RECOMMENDED
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FAQs
What if my car has a loan?
You can still complete a title transfer if your car has a loan. You can pay off the loan before you transfer the title, or get in contact with your lender to ask for a lien release. It’s always a good idea to contact your lender to ask how to proceed with a title transfer.
Where do I sign to transfer the title?
You should see a line on the certificate of title that says “seller’s signature” and one marked “buyer’s signature.” Sign on the line that indicates whether you’re giving up or taking on possession of the car.
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