Title Transfers

In its most basic form, a car title is your definitive proof of ownership. Unlike your license or registration certificate, it does not need to be with you at all times while operating your vehicle―in fact, it shouldn't be. It is only required during the initial licensing process and during a transfer of ownership. Filing it in a safe location is highly suggested.

If you carry a loan on your vehicle, your lender will hold your title until it is paid in full.

You do not need a driver's license, nor do you need to be a certain age, to hold a title.

Vehicles That Require Titles

• Cars 15 years old or younger, based on the calendar year

• Motor homes

• Trucks

• Tractors with a loaded weight of 6,100 pounds or more

• ATVs that are model year 2004 or newer

• Motorcycles with engines larger than 300 cubic centimeters

Titling a New Vehicle

After you purchase a new vehicle, your dealer will submit to the DMV a Vermont Dealer Appraisal Form which will determine how much you owe in sales tax. You then must provide the following items:

• Completed Vermont Registration, Tax and Title Application

• Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)

• Bill of Sale

• New Vehicle Information Statement if purchased in Canada

• $28 title fee

Titling a Used Vehicle

If you purchase a used vehicle, you will need to submit to the DMV the following:

• Completed Vermont Registration, Tax and Title Application

• Original certificate of title given to you by the seller

• Odometer Disclosure Statement

• Bill of Sale

• Sales tax payment

• $28 title fee

You must also make sure all liens have been released. If the vehicle does not have a previous title and one is now required, in addition to the above information you will also need to supply a certified vehicle identification number (VIN).

Gift Transfers

In addition to reassigning ownership on the back of the title, you must also submit a completed Vermont Registration, Tax, and Title Application and a Gift Tax Exemption Form.

Transferring in the Event of Death

There are several ways to transfer the title after the death of the vehicle's owner; choose the scenario that applies to you to determine what documents you will need.

Vehicle Jointly Owned With Surviving Spouse

• A copy of the death certificate.

• If the death certificate does not identify the surviving spouse, he or she will need to complete a Surviving Spouse/Party to a Civil Union Statement.

Vehicle Titled Only to Owner or Jointly With Persons Other Than Spouse

No will and no probate:

• A copy of the death certificate.

• A letter from an attorney confirming that the deceased died without a will, stating that there is no estate to be probated, and dictating the name of the person to receive the vehicle. If the attorney is from out of state, he or she will also need to proffer proof that he or she is a legal member of the Bar.

• Original title properly assigned with "Release of Liens" section completed, if applicable.

No will with a probate:

• A letter from the probate judge naming the executor of the estate.

• Original title properly assigned with "Release of Liens" section completed, if applicable. Also section 1 needs to be completed by the executor and other owners, if they exist, transferring the vehicle to the new owner.

Will with no probate:

• A copy of the death certificate.

• A letter from an attorney confirming that the deceased died without a will, stating there is no estate to be probated, and dictating the name of the person to receive the vehicle. If the attorney is from out of state, he or she will need to proffer proof that he or she is a legal member of the Bar.

• Original title properly assigned with "Release of Liens" section completed, if applicable.

Will with a probate:

• A letter from the probate judge naming the executor of the estate.

• Original title properly assigned with "Release of Liens" section completed, if applicable. Also section 1 needs to be completed by the executor and other owners, if they exist, transferring the vehicle to the new owner.

Removing or Adding a Name to a Title

To add or remove a name to a title (for example, after a marriage or divorce), you need to reassign the title on the back, provide an updated odometer reading, complete a Vermont Registration, Tax, and Title Application, and pay a $28 new-title fee.

Changing Your Name on a Title

Along with completing a Vermont Registration, Tax, and Title Application and a Legal Name Notice form, you must also provide name documentation such as a birth certificate or a divorce decree stating the name change.

Fees and Locations

• Certificate of title: $28

• Certificate of title after a transfer: $28

• Duplicate title: $28

• Corrected certificate of title $28

All title applications should be mailed or taken in person to:

• Department of Motor Vehicles

• 120 State St.

• Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Some other DMV locations can also process your title application; call to find out.