Title Transfers

When you buy or sell a car or when you get your vehicle released from a lien, you'll need to transfer the title. Your first step is to get familiar with the Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle.

The process for title applications is slightly different depending on where you bought your vehicle: through a dealership, in private sale, or even out of state.

Application for Title

Prior to applying for a title transfer, you will need to pay a property tax based on the county's assessment of your vehicle purchase. For more information on the vehicle assessment, call (888) 389-8336.

You'll also need to buy liability insurance, the cost of which depends on the value of your vehicle and your driving record.

To apply for a certificate of title, take the required paperwork to your local Office of Motor Vehicles:

• Bill of sale

• Assigned Title Certificate or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin

• Odometer statement

• Property tax receipt

• Verification of VIN on salvage vehicles

• Lien Release Form #10-315

If your vehicle is financed, the bank or lender will get your title certificate. Otherwise, watch the mail for your vehicle title and be sure to keep it in a safe place.

Title Holders and Driver's Licenses

You do not need to have an Arkansas driver's license to be listed as a title holder.

Adding, Deleting, or Changing Names

If you're adding or deleting a spouse's name to the title, the spouse simply needs to complete and sign the appropriate section on the back of the title.

If you're adding or deleting a name other than the spouse's, you'll need to complete a new
title application.

If you want to change a name on a title due to marriage, bring the marriage certificate to a revenue office, and the office will direct you from there. To change a name after a divorce, instead bring your divorce decree.

Gift Title Transfer

If you are simply giving a vehicle, without any monetary consideration, to another person, just complete the back of the title as you would if you were selling the vehicle. Then, in the space marked for the amount, either write "gift" or "$0.00."

Title Transfer Following Death of Title Holder

The procedure to transfer the title after the death of the title owner varies, depending on a number of factors. Because of the complexity of this matter, it's best to call either a revenue office or the title hotline at (501) 682-4702 to see what to do. Be prepared, though, to produce the death certificate, complete a power of attorney form, or fill in an Affidavit of Inheritance form, depending on your situation.