How to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee Complete Guide

Just bought or sold a car in Tennessee and feeling lost in the paperwork? You’re not alone. Navigating the legal steps for a TN vehicle title transfer can seem confusing, and getting it wrong can cause delays and penalties.

To transfer a car title in Tennessee, the seller must sign the back of the original title, and the buyer must take it to their local County Clerk’s office. You’ll need the signed title, proof of identification and residency, an Odometer Disclosure Statement, and payment for fees and sales tax. This process legally changes ownership and is required for registering the vehicle.

Based on official Tennessee Department of Revenue guidelines, this guide provides the exact steps to ensure a smooth transfer. We will cover the required documents, a full breakdown of the costs, and how to handle special situations like inheritance or gifts. This reveals the complete process for a legally sound transfer.

Key Facts

• 30-Day Deadline is Mandatory: State law requires the buyer to complete the title transfer at a County Clerk’s office within 30 days of the purchase date to avoid penalties.
• Go to the County Clerk, Not a DMV: Unlike many other states, all vehicle title and registration services in Tennessee are handled at the county level by the local County Clerk’s office.
• Sales Tax is the Largest Cost: The biggest expense is the sales tax, which includes a 7% state rate plus a local rate calculated on the vehicle’s purchase price.
• The Signed Title is Non-Negotiable: The most critical document is the original Certificate of Title with the “Assignment of Title” section properly signed by the seller; without it, the transfer cannot happen.
• Online Transfers Are Not an Option: The entire process must be completed in person; Tennessee does not currently offer an online system for transferring vehicle ownership.

How Do You Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee? A Complete 2026 Guide

Transferring a car title in Tennessee is a legal requirement to prove vehicle ownership and is governed by the Tennessee Department of Revenue (TDOR). This process, officially known as a transfer of ownership, ensures that the state has an accurate record of the vehicle’s current owner for tax and liability purposes. It involves the seller formally assigning the current Certificate of Title [the legal document proving ownership] and the buyer submitting that document to their local County Clerk to have a new title issued in their name.

This official transfer is critical for several reasons. For the buyer, it is the only way to gain legal ownership and subsequently complete the vehicle registration to get a license plate. For the seller, it formally removes their liability for the vehicle. State law requires that the buyer completes the title transfer within 30 days of the sale date. The key entities involved in this process are the buyer, the seller, and the County Clerk’s office, which acts as the official agent for the state government.

The main players in this process have distinct roles:
* The Seller: Responsible for accurately completing the “Assignment of Title” section on the existing title, including the sales price and odometer reading.
* The Buyer: Responsible for gathering all necessary paperwork, visiting the County Clerk’s office, and paying all applicable fees and sales tax.
* The County Clerk: The official government office that reviews the application, collects fees, and processes the paperwork to issue a new Tennessee Certificate of Title.

What Documents Are Required to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee?

You will need the original vehicle title signed by the seller, an Odometer Disclosure Statement, proof of your ID and Tennessee residency, and a passed emissions certificate (if applicable). A Bill of Sale is also highly recommended. For gifted vehicles, an “Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers” is also required. Gathering these documents before you go ensures a smooth and successful trip to the County Clerk.

What the Seller Must Provide to the Buyer

• Properly Assigned Certificate of Title: This is the most important document. The seller must complete the “Assignment of Title by Seller” section on the back of the title. This includes the buyer’s full name and address, the date of sale, the purchase price, and the exact odometer reading. The seller’s signature must match their name on the front of the title.
• Odometer Disclosure Statement (Form RV-F1317001): For vehicles less than 10 years old, federal and state law requires this separate form to be completed, even though the mileage is also written on the title. It’s a legal declaration of the vehicle’s mileage at the time of sale.
• Lien Release (if applicable): If the seller had a loan on the car, the title will show a lienholder (a bank or credit union). The seller must provide proof that the loan has been paid off. This is usually a signature from the lienholder on the front of the title or a separate official lien release letter.

What the Buyer Must Bring to the County Clerk

• The Documents from the Seller: This includes the signed Certificate of Title and the Odometer Disclosure Statement.
• Proof of Identification: A valid, unexpired driver’s license or state-issued ID is required.
• Proof of Tennessee Residency: You need to show you live in the county where you are applying. Acceptable documents often include a utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement dated within the last few months.
• Emissions Test Certificate (if applicable): Residents in certain counties (including Davidson, Hamilton, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson) must provide proof of a passed vehicle emissions test before a title and registration can be issued.
• Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers (Form RV-F1301201): This form is required if the vehicle was a gift or sold at a very low price to certify the transaction and potentially gain a sales tax exemption.
• Payment for Fees and Taxes: Be prepared to pay for the title fee, registration fee, and state and local sales tax.

Pro-Tip: Even if not legally required for your specific transaction, always get a notarized Bill of Sale. This document serves as a legal receipt of the transaction, protecting both you and the seller by documenting the vehicle’s condition, sale price, and date.

How Do You Complete the Tennessee Title Transfer Process Step-by-Step?

The title transfer is a sequential process that starts with the seller and ends with the buyer at the County Clerk’s office. Following these steps in order prevents errors that could void the title or delay the transfer.

Step 1: The Seller’s Role – Properly Assigning the Title

The seller is responsible for correctly filling out the “Assignment of Title by Seller” section on the back of the Tennessee Certificate of Title. This is the legal action that releases their ownership.

• Verify the VIN: The seller should ensure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the title document matches the VIN on the vehicle itself.
• Fill in Buyer Information: Neatly print the buyer’s full legal name and current address in the designated spaces.
• Enter the Odometer Reading: Write the vehicle’s exact mileage in the odometer section without decimals. Falsifying this information is a federal offense.
• Record the Sale Price and Date: Enter the final purchase price of the vehicle and the date of the sale.
• Sign and Print Name: The seller must sign their name exactly as it appears on the front of the title. If two owners are listed with “and,” both must sign.

Common Mistake Alert: Never use white-out or cross out information on a title. Any alterations can void the entire document, requiring the seller to apply for a duplicate title and start the process over.

Step 2: The Buyer’s Role – Gather Documents and Visit the Clerk

After receiving the properly signed title, the buyer has 30 days to complete the transfer at their local County Clerk’s office.

• Obtain All Documents: Gather the signed title from the seller along with the Odometer Disclosure Statement, your proof of ID and residency, and a passed emissions certificate (if your county requires it).
• Complete an Application for Title and Registration: While most information is taken from the old title, you may need to fill out an application at the clerk’s office.
• Visit Your Local County Clerk: Take all your paperwork to the County Clerk’s office in the county where you reside. You cannot go to a clerk’s office in a different county.

Step 3: Pay Fees and Taxes to Finalize the Transfer

At the clerk’s office, you will submit your documents and pay all required taxes and fees.

• Document Review: The clerk will review all documents for accuracy, ensuring the seller’s signature is correct and all fields are complete.
• Pay Sales Tax: You will pay state and local sales tax based on the purchase price listed on the title.
• Pay Title and Registration Fees: You will pay the state title fee and the license plate registration fee. You can either get a new license plate or transfer an existing one.

Step 4: Receive Your New Title and Registration

Once the process is complete, you will receive your new registration and license plate (or decal), making it legal to drive the vehicle. The new Certificate of Title will be mailed to you by the Tennessee Department of Revenue, typically within a few weeks. If you have a car loan, the title will be mailed directly to the lienholder.

How Much Does It Cost to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee in 2026?

Expect to pay a state title fee ($11), a county clerk fee ($8.50), license plate fees (approx. $22+), and sales tax. Sales tax is the largest component, consisting of a 7% state tax plus a variable local tax based on the vehicle’s purchase price. Total costs can range from under $100 for a gifted vehicle to several thousand dollars depending on the car’s value.

The total cost to transfer a car title is a combination of fixed state fees and variable taxes. Here is a clear breakdown of what to expect as of 2026.

The most significant cost is the sales tax. For example, on a $10,000 vehicle, the 7% state sales tax alone would be $700. The local tax is then added on top of that. It’s important to budget for this tax liability when purchasing a vehicle from a private seller.

Tax Exemption Alert: A key exception to the sales tax is the transfer of a vehicle to a “lineal relative,” which includes a spouse, parent, child, or grandparent. If you are gifting or selling a vehicle to one of these family members, you can be exempt from sales tax by filing the “Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers of Motor Vehicles and Boats” (Form RV-F1301201).

Where Do You Go to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee?

You must go to your local County Clerk’s office to transfer a car title in Tennessee. Unlike many states that use a central DMV, Tennessee handles all vehicle titling and registration at the county level. You can find the specific address and hours for your county’s office on the official TN.gov website.

It is a common point of confusion for new residents. In many states, you would visit the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) or BMV for this service, but in Tennessee, this responsibility is delegated to local government. Each of Tennessee’s 95 counties has its own County Clerk’s office that provides vehicle services on behalf of the state’s Department of Revenue.

Here are the key things to know about finding the right location:

• County Clerk, Not DMV: You must visit the office for the county in which you reside. For example, if you live in Nashville, you must go to a Davidson County Clerk’s office.
• Find Your Local Office: The Tennessee Department of Revenue provides an official online locator on the TN.gov website. This is the most reliable source for finding the address, hours, and contact information for your specific office.
• Check for Appointments: Some urban county clerk offices, like those in Shelby or Knox county, may offer appointments. Checking their specific website beforehand can save you significant waiting time.

Pro-Tip: Before you go, visit your specific county clerk’s website. They often list peak hours, holiday closures, and any specific requirements for their location. Some counties may have multiple branch locations, and the website can help you find the one that is most convenient.

How Do You Handle Special Title Transfer Scenarios in Tennessee?

For an inherited vehicle, you need a death certificate and an Affidavit of Inheritance. For a gifted vehicle, you need a special affidavit to be exempt from sales tax. New residents must transfer their out-of-state title within 30 days. If a title has a lien, the bank or lender must provide a lien release before you can transfer it. These non-standard situations require specific documents to ensure a legal transfer.

What If the Previous Owner is Deceased?

Transferring a title from a deceased owner, known as an inherited vehicle transfer, requires specific legal documentation to prove you have the right to take ownership. The process differs slightly depending on whether the deceased person (the decedent) had a will.

With a Will

If the decedent’s estate is being probated, the Executor of the Estate handles the transfer.
* Required Documents:
* The original Certificate of Title.
* A certified copy of the Death Certificate.
* A copy of the probated will or Letters of Testamentary from the Probate Court designating the Executor.
* Process: The Executor signs the back of the title as the “seller” on behalf of the estate. The heir then takes these documents to the County Clerk to complete the transfer.

Without a Will

If there was no will, all legal heirs must agree on the transfer.
* Required Documents:
* The original Certificate of Title.
* A certified copy of the Death Certificate.
* A completed and signed Affidavit of Inheritance (Form RV-F1310501). All known heirs must sign this form, and their signatures may need to be notarized.
* Process: One heir can be designated on the form to receive the vehicle. They take the signed affidavit and other documents to the clerk’s office.

What If the Vehicle is a Gift?

If you receive a car as a gift from a non-dealer, you follow the standard transfer process but can be exempt from paying sales tax.
* Required Document: You must submit a completed Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers (Form RV-F1301201).
* Process: Both the person giving the gift and the person receiving it must sign this affidavit. This form certifies that no money was exchanged for the vehicle. Submit this form along with the signed title at the County Clerk’s office to pay only the title and registration fees, not the sales tax. This exemption applies to lineal relatives (spouse, parent, child, etc.).

What If You Are a New Resident?

New residents moving to Tennessee must transfer their out-of-state title and register their vehicle in Tennessee.
* Deadline: You must complete this process within 30 days of establishing residency.
* Required Documents:
* Your current out-of-state Certificate of Title. If a lienholder holds your title, you will need the full name and address of the lienholder.
* Proof of identification and Tennessee residency.
* Your current out-of-state registration.
* Process: Take your documents to your new local County Clerk’s office. They will process your application for a new Tennessee title and registration.

What If the Title Has a Lien?

A title with a lien means a bank or financial institution has a legal claim to the vehicle until a loan is paid off.
* Lien Release is Required: The title cannot be transferred to a new owner until the lienholder officially releases their claim.
* Process: Once the loan is paid off, the lienholder will either sign the designated “Lien Release” section on the front of the title or provide the owner with a separate, official lien release letter on their company letterhead.
* For the Buyer: Do not purchase a vehicle until you have proof that the lien has been released. You must submit the title with the signed lien release or the separate release letter to the County Clerk to get a clear title in your name.

FAQs About how do you transfer a car title in tennessee

Can I transfer a car title online in Tennessee?

No, you cannot transfer a car title online in Tennessee. All vehicle title transfers must be processed in person at a local County Clerk’s office. While some states are moving to electronic systems, Tennessee’s process still requires physical submission of the signed title and supporting documents to verify the transaction.

Do both the buyer and seller have to be present to transfer a title in TN?

No, only the buyer (or their representative) needs to be present at the County Clerk’s office. The seller’s role is to properly complete their section on the back of the title and provide it to the buyer. As long as the title is correctly signed and dated by the seller, the buyer can complete the transfer process alone.

What happens if I have a lost title in Tennessee?

You must apply for a duplicate title before you can transfer ownership. The current legal owner must apply for a duplicate title through their local County Clerk’s office. You cannot sell or transfer a vehicle without a valid Certificate of Title. The fee for a replacement title is approximately $13-$19 depending on the county.

Does a car title have to be notarized in Tennessee?

Generally, no, the Certificate of Title itself does not need to be notarized for a standard transfer. However, certain supporting documents, such as a Bill of Sale or an Affidavit of Inheritance, are often recommended or required to be notarized to be considered legally binding.

How long do new residents have to transfer their car title to Tennessee?

New residents must transfer their out-of-state title and register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency in Tennessee. This is mandated by Tennessee state law (Tennessee Code Ann. § 55-4-101). You will need to take your out-of-state title and current registration to your new local County Clerk’s office.

Is a Bill of Sale required for a title transfer in TN?

While not always legally required for a simple transfer, a notarized Bill of Sale is highly recommended. It serves as crucial legal proof of the sale price and date for both buyer and seller. It may be required by the clerk if there are questions about the purchase price or if documentation is missing.

What is the penalty for a late title transfer in Tennessee?

Failing to transfer a title within the 30-day window can result in late fees and penalties being assessed by the County Clerk’s office. Furthermore, as the seller, you remain legally responsible for the vehicle until the transfer is complete. This means you could be liable for parking tickets or accidents involving the car after you’ve sold it.

How do I transfer a car title to a family member as a gift?

The process is the same as a standard transfer, but you must also complete an Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfers to be exempt from sales tax. Both the giver and receiver must sign this form, certifying that the vehicle was a gift. This form is submitted along with the signed title at the County Clerk’s office.

What if the seller’s signature doesn’t match the name on the front of the title?

The application will likely be rejected. The seller must sign their name on the back of the title exactly as it appears on the front. If the name has changed (e.g., due to marriage), legal documentation proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, must be provided.

How do I handle a lien on the title during a transfer?

The lienholder must first release their lien before the title can be transferred to a new owner. This is done when the loan is paid off. The lienholder will either sign the “lien release” section on the certificate of title or provide a separate official lien release letter. This proof of release is required by the County Clerk.

Key Takeaways: Tennessee Car Title Transfer Summary

• Go to the County Clerk, Not the DMV: All title transfers in Tennessee must be done in person at your local County Clerk’s office, not a state-run DMV.
• The Signed Title is Essential: The single most critical document is the original Certificate of Title, with the back “Assignment of Title” section properly filled out and signed by the seller.
• Gather All Documents First: Before visiting the clerk, ensure you have the signed title, proof of ID and residency, an Odometer Disclosure Statement, and a passed emissions test certificate if your county requires it.
• Budget for Fees and Sales Tax: The total cost includes a state title fee ($11), a county processing fee ($8.50), license plate fees, and the largest portion, which is the state and local sales tax on the vehicle’s purchase price.
• The Buyer is Responsible for Completion: While the seller must sign the title, it is the buyer’s responsibility to take all documents to the County Clerk and finalize the transfer within 30 days of the sale.
• Special Cases Require Extra Paperwork: Transfers involving deceased owners (Affidavit of Inheritance), gifts (tax exemption affidavit), or out-of-state vehicles have specific additional documentation requirements.
• Handle Liens Before Transferring: If there is a loan on the vehicle, the lienholder must provide an official lien release on the title or a separate letter before ownership can be transferred.

Final Thoughts on How to Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee

Navigating the Tennessee car title transfer process doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding the distinct roles of the buyer and seller, gathering the correct documents ahead of time, and knowing exactly where to go, you can ensure a hassle-free experience. The key is preparation. Successfully transferring a car title is a straightforward process when you are prepared with the correct, accurately completed documents and understand the fee structure.

Remember that the County Clerk’s office is your official resource for this process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently walk into the clerk’s office, complete the transaction efficiently, and legally enjoy your new vehicle on Tennessee roads. Now that you have the complete blueprint, your next step is to gather your documents and complete the transfer.