Title Transfer New York
A title transfer is needed to change ownership of a vehicle in New York. This requires paperwork from both the new and current owners.
Written by Shannon Fitzgerald
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Table of Contents
- What is a title transfer?
- Car title transfer in New York
- Registering a car in New York
- Finding insurance for your vehicle
- FAQs
Load full table of contents
To transfer ownership of a vehicle in
New York
, both the seller and the buyer need to complete a title transfer. This can be done at your local DMV for a baseline fee of $50 with additional charges that vary by county. What is a title transfer?
A title is used to assign ownership of a vehicle. When a seller—or current owner—completes a title transfer, they are transferring their ownership to the new owner.
The transaction involves separate steps for each party:
The process varies by state. In New York, the seller and buyer may need to fill out more forms depending on the nature of the transfer and the age and condition of the vehicle.
Who does the title transfer?
If you are buying a vehicle from a dealership—the dealership will handle all the paperwork and issue the title from the state DMV to you by mail.
If this is a private purchase or gift, the paperwork is the responsibility of the buyer and seller.
Reasons for a title transfer
The most likely reasons for a title transfer are buying or selling a car or changing residency.
However, there are several other reasons why a title transfer may take place:
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Car title transfer in New York
In New York State, the current owner must complete the “transfer by owner” section on the back of the title to officially transfer ownership to the buyer, or new owner.
If this section has already been filled out—or if there are any cross-outs, alterations, or erasures of any kind—you must obtain a new title before you can transfer ownership.
Note: if the title is from Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Washington, Wyoming, or Puerto Rico the transfer section must also be notarized.
During this process, the seller must:
- If the vehicle was inherited from a deceased owner—the NY DMV has publishedthis checklistto follow
- Provide a lien release to the buyer if the vehicle was previously on loan
- This form is filled out by lienholders once loans are paid in full
The buyer must then bring to the DMV:
- Proof of ownership
- This includes the title and title transfer documentsNote—the buyer must also sign the Vehicle Bill of Sale formThis may also include the original lien release
- Proof of identification
- Valid New York State car insurance
- Payment for fees
If the vehicle model is 20 years old or newer, the Odometer Disclosure Statement must be filled out in the transfer section, as well. The Damage Disclosure Statement must be completed regardless of the vehicle’s age.
Once the transfer paperwork has been signed, the seller must remove the old license plates and registration stickers from the vehicle. The license plates must be returned to the NY DMV.
Key Takeaway: The seller must fill out and sign the transfer section on the back of the title, as well as a Bill of Sale form or Statement of Transaction. They must provide the buyer with the original lien release if the vehicle was previously financed.
Registering a car in New York
The new owner must obtain new license plates and register the vehicle in their name in order to legally drive on the streets.
In New York,
the cost of registration
begins at $26 for vehicles under 1,650lbs and increases $1.50 for every 100lbs after. This is a biennial fee. Other fees include: Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Title Certificate Fee | $50 | |
Sales Tax | varies | Amount depends on purchase price and locality |
Vehicle Use Tax | $30/2 years | Only applicable to Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens, and Richmond counties |
Metropolitan Commuter Transport District (MCTD) Fee | $50/2 years | Only applicable to the 12 MCTD counties |
County Use Tax | $10-$20+/year | Amount depends on county and vehicle weight, only applicable to counties outside of New York City |
The process will vary for those moving to New York with an out-of-state vehicle. Remember—you must register your vehicle within 30 days of becoming a resident or you may face late fees. You must also get a New York state driver’s license within 30 days.
Finding insurance for your vehicle
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FAQs
What if my car has a loan?
You will likely need to contact your lender to see how this transaction can be handled. The state typically does not accept title transfers with liens unless a lien release is provided, as well.
Where do I sign to transfer the title?
On the back of your title, there is a section labeled “transfer by owner.” This needs to be filled out by the seller and signed by both the seller and the buyer on the designated lines. If this section has been previously filled out or is marked in any way, you need to request a new title from the DMV.
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