How to Transfer a Car Title in Michigan Step By Step Guide

Struggling with how to transfer a car title in Michigan? You’re not alone. Many people find the process confusing and worry about making a mistake that could cause legal headaches or unexpected fees. This process is about ensuring the vehicle’s ownership is legally and officially changed.

To transfer a car title in Michigan, the seller must fill out the seller’s portion of the title, including an odometer disclosure, and sign it. The buyer then takes the signed title, proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance, and a valid ID to a Secretary of State (SOS) office within 15 days. After paying the title transfer fee and any applicable sales tax, the state issues a new title in the buyer’s name.

Based on official Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) guidance, this guide provides the exact steps to complete your transfer correctly. This is the Michigan Vehicle Title, a legal ownership document issued by the SOS. You’ll discover how to navigate every step, from filling out the paperwork to understanding fees, ensuring a seamless and legally sound transfer.

Key Facts

• Strict 15-Day Deadline: You have only 15 days from the date of sale to transfer the title. Failing to do so results in a mandatory $15 late fee.
• 6% Sales Tax is Due: Michigan collects a 6% sales tax based on the vehicle’s purchase price at the time of the title transfer.
• Insurance is a Prerequisite: You cannot transfer a title in Michigan without first obtaining a valid Michigan No-Fault auto insurance policy for the vehicle.
• The Title is the Legal Document: While a bill of sale is recommended for personal records, it is not legally required in Michigan; the properly signed title is what facilitates the ownership change.
• Seller Signs, Buyer Submits: The seller’s primary job is to complete and sign the title. The buyer is then solely responsible for submitting all paperwork to the Secretary of State.

How to Transfer a Car Title in Michigan: The 2026 Step-by-Step Guide

Transferring a car title in Michigan is a legal process managed by the Secretary of State (SOS) that must be completed within 15 days of the sale. According to official SOS guidance and Michigan Compiled Laws (the state law), both the seller and buyer have specific responsibilities. The seller must complete their section on the original title document, and the buyer must submit it with the required fee and proof of insurance.

This process ensures the state has an accurate record of ownership, which is crucial for legal and tax purposes. While most transfers happen in person, some may qualify for an online option. The core of the process involves these key actions:

• The seller signs over the existing title to the buyer.
• The buyer obtains Michigan No-Fault auto insurance.
• The buyer visits an SOS office to pay fees, sales tax, and receive a new title and registration.

Critical Warning: You MUST transfer the title into your name within 15 days of the sale date. Failure to do so results in a $15 late fee. More importantly, driving a vehicle not legally titled in your name is a misdemeanor in Michigan, which can lead to fines and other legal issues.

Pro Tip: Before any money changes hands, the buyer and seller should inspect the title together to ensure there are no existing liens and that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the title matches the VIN on the vehicle.

What Documents and Information Are Required for a Michigan Title Transfer?

For a standard Michigan title transfer, you will need the original vehicle title signed by the seller, a valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID for the buyer, and proof of Michigan No-Fault auto insurance. The title must also include a completed odometer disclosure statement. Gathering these documents beforehand prevents a wasted trip to the SOS office.

Based on official SOS guidance, here is a checklist of what you’ll need.

For the Seller (To Provide to the Buyer)

• The Original Michigan Certificate of Title: This is the single most important document. It must be the original paper title, not a copy. The seller must sign it to release ownership.

For the Buyer (To Bring to the SOS Office)

• The Properly Signed Title: The original title you received from the seller with their signature and all required fields completed.
• Proof of Michigan No-Fault Insurance: This can be a physical insurance card or a digital proof of insurance on your phone. The policy must be active for the specific vehicle you are titling.
• Valid Michigan Driver’s License or State ID: You need to present valid, unexpired photo identification.
• Payment for Fees and Taxes: Be prepared to pay the title transfer fee, registration/plate fee, and 6% sales tax on the purchase price.

May Also Be Required

• A Lien Release Letter: If the title shows a lien from a bank or credit union, you must have a separate document from that lienholder stating the loan has been paid off. You cannot transfer ownership until the lien is officially released.
• Out-of-State Title: If you are bringing a vehicle from another state, you will need that state’s original title to convert it to a Michigan title.

Pro Tip: Always take clear photos of the front and back of the signed title with your smartphone before heading to the SOS. This creates a personal record of the completed document in case it gets lost.

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

The Michigan title transfer process involves the seller filling out and signing the title, including the odometer reading. The buyer then schedules an appointment at an SOS office, presents the signed title, proof of insurance, and ID, and pays the required fees and sales tax to complete the transfer. Our experience shows breaking it down by role simplifies the process.

Step 1: How Does the Seller Prepare and Sign the Title?

The seller prepares a Michigan title by entering the current odometer mileage, the date of sale, the sale price, and their printed name and signature in the designated “Assignment by Owner” section. This step is critical; any errors could void the title.

Here is a walkthrough of the fields the seller must complete on the back of the Michigan Certificate of Title:

1. Odometer Disclosure: Locate the odometer section. Write in the vehicle’s exact mileage without any decimals (e.g., 105342). Then, check the box indicating it is the “Actual Mileage.” Federal law requires this disclosure for most vehicles.
2. Sale Price: Write the full purchase price of the vehicle.
3. Date of Sale: Enter the month, day, and year the vehicle was sold. This date starts the 15-day clock for the buyer.
4. Buyer’s Information: The buyer should print their full legal name and current Michigan address in this section.
5. Seller’s Signature and Printed 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. If it says “or,” only one needs to sign. After signing, print your name clearly on the line provided.

Visual Guide: Completing the Michigan Title
* Seller’s Signature: Locate the “Seller’s Signature” line. Sign here exactly as your name appears on the front of the title.
* Odometer Reading: Find the odometer box. Enter the exact mileage without decimals and check the “Actual Mileage” box.
* Buyer’s Name and Address: The buyer prints their full legal name and current Michigan address in the designated section.
* Sale Price: Enter the final sale price in the field provided.

Common Mistake: Do not use white-out or cross out information. If you make a significant error, you may need to apply for a duplicate title and start over. Never sign the title until the buyer is present and you have received payment, as a signed, open title can be a target for fraud.

Step 2: How Does the Buyer Complete Their Part and Secure Insurance?

After receiving the signed title, the buyer must obtain a Michigan No-Fault insurance policy for the vehicle before going to the SOS. You will be required to present proof of this insurance to complete the transfer and register the vehicle.

Here are the buyer’s immediate actions:

• Confirm Your Information: Double-check that your full name and address are correctly printed in the buyer’s section of the title.
• Obtain Insurance: Contact your insurance agent and add the newly purchased vehicle to your policy. A valid Michigan No-Fault insurance policy is mandatory.
• Gather Your ID: Ensure you have your valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID ready for the appointment.

Pro Tip: Ask your insurance agent to email you a digital proof of insurance (often called an insurance “binder”). You can show this directly from your phone at the SOS office, saving you the hassle of printing a physical card.

Step 3: How Do You Submit the Paperwork at a Secretary of State (SOS) Office?

To submit your title transfer paperwork, schedule an appointment online at a Michigan SOS office. Bring the signed title, your ID, and proof of insurance to your appointment, where you will pay the title fee, registration fee, and 6% sales tax.

In-Person at an SOS Office

This is the most common method. You must schedule an appointment online through the official SOS website. Walk-in services are extremely limited.

What to Bring to Your Appointment:
* The original, properly signed vehicle title.
* Your valid Michigan driver’s license or state ID.
* Proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance for the vehicle.
* Payment for all fees (credit/debit card, check, or cash).

At the appointment, the SOS clerk will verify your documents, calculate the 6% sales tax on the purchase price, and collect all fees. You will typically leave with your new registration and license plate (or tab), and the new title will be mailed to you within a few weeks.

Online Title Transfer

Yes, Michigan offers an online title transfer option, but it has strict requirements. This service is designed for simple, straightforward transfers.

To qualify for an online transfer:
* Both the buyer and seller must have a Michigan driver’s license or ID.
* The vehicle must have a current Michigan title.
* The title must be “clean,” meaning it has no liens recorded on it.

If you meet these criteria, you can use the service on the official SOS website. Both parties complete their sections online, and the buyer pays the fees electronically. This is a great option to avoid an in-person visit if your transaction qualifies.

How Do You Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in Michigan (Gifting)?

When transferring a car title to an immediate family member in Michigan as a gift, the process is similar to a regular sale but is exempt from the 6% sales tax. The seller writes “$0” or “GIFT” in the purchase price field on the title to claim this exemption. This is a significant benefit designed for transfers within a family.

Do you pay sales tax on a gifted car in Michigan?
No, you do not pay the 6% sales tax on a vehicle transferred between immediate family members in Michigan. According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, this exemption applies only to specific relationships.

The following are considered “immediate family members” for the sales tax exemption:
* Spouse
* Parent (including step-parents)
* Child (including adopted children and step-children)
* Sibling (including step-siblings)
* Grandparent
* Grandchild

Important Note: To claim the exemption, the seller must write “GIFT” or “$0” in the “purchase price” section on the back of the title. The buyer will then affirm at the SOS office that the transfer is a gift between qualifying family members. You will still need to pay the $15 title transfer fee and any registration fees.

This tax exemption does not apply to transfers between aunts, uncles, cousins, or non-related individuals. In those cases, sales tax would be due on the fair market value of the vehicle.

How Do You Transfer a Michigan Car Title from a Deceased Owner?

Transferring a car title from a deceased owner in Michigan is a sensitive process that requires specific legal documentation. The path you take depends on whether the deceased person’s estate is going through probate court. Our experience shows this is a common point of confusion, and we’ve broken it down into two clear paths.

Path 1: With a Court-Appointed Representative

To transfer a Michigan car title from a deceased owner, the court-appointed Personal Representative (or Executor) must sign the title on behalf of the deceased. This individual is given legal authority by a probate court to manage the deceased’s assets.

The Personal Representative will need to bring the following to the SOS office:
* The original vehicle title.
* The Letters of Authority from the probate court. This is the official document proving they are the appointed representative.
* The deceased’s death certificate.
* Their own valid ID.

The Personal Representative will sign the seller’s portion of the title, printing the deceased’s name and then signing their own name, adding “Personal Representative” after their signature.

Path 2: Without Probate (Small Estates)

If the estate is small and not going through probate court, the surviving spouse or next of kin can complete Form TR-29, “Certification from the Heir to a Vehicle.” This form allows for the transfer of one vehicle valued up to $60,000 without a court order.

The heir will need to bring the following to the SOS office:
* The original vehicle title.
* The completed and signed Form TR-29.
* The deceased’s death certificate.
* Their own valid ID.

This simplified process is a huge help for families navigating smaller estates.

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only. For complex estates or if you have legal questions, it is always best to consult with an attorney specializing in estate law.

FAQs About how to transfer a car title in michigan

What happens if I don’t transfer my title within 15 days in Michigan?

You will be charged a $15 late fee if you fail to transfer the title within 15 days of the sale date. More importantly, driving a vehicle that is not legally titled and registered in your name is a misdemeanor in Michigan. This can lead to fines and legal complications, so it is critical to complete the transfer promptly.

Is a bill of sale required in Michigan for a title transfer?

No, a bill of sale is not legally required for a private vehicle sale in Michigan as long as the title is properly completed. The title itself acts as the legal transfer document. However, creating a simple bill of sale is highly recommended for both the buyer and seller’s personal records as proof of the transaction details.

Do both the buyer and seller need to be present at the SOS office?

No, only the buyer needs to go to the Secretary of State office to complete the title transfer. The seller’s only legal obligation is to correctly fill out and sign their portion of the original title and give it to the buyer. The buyer is then responsible for submitting all paperwork to the state.

How much is the title transfer fee in Michigan?

The standard title transfer fee in Michigan is $15. However, you will also have to pay for the vehicle registration/license plate and 6% sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle at the same time. Additional fees may apply for lien recording or instant (quick) title services.

Can I transfer a Michigan title if the owner is not present?

Yes, as the buyer, you can transfer the title without the seller being present at the SOS office. The critical element is that you have the original title document which has been properly signed and completed by the seller whose name is on the title. Their physical presence is not required for your part of the process.

How do I transfer a car title with a lien in Michigan?

You must have a lien release document from the lienholder (the bank or credit union that provided the loan). The lienholder can provide a “Lien Termination Statement” or sign off directly on the designated space on the Michigan title. You cannot transfer a title to a new owner until the lien has been officially released.

Does a Michigan car title need to be notarized?

No, a Michigan Certificate of Title does not need to be notarized. The signatures of the buyer and seller are all that is required to make the document valid for transfer. Some states require notarization, but Michigan is not one of them.

What do I do if I lost the Michigan car title before I could transfer it?

The current owner of record must apply for a duplicate title before the vehicle can be sold and transferred. The seller can apply for a duplicate title online through the SOS website or in person at a branch office. The fee for a duplicate title is $15. You cannot transfer ownership without the original or an official duplicate title.

How much is sales tax on a car title transfer in Michigan?

Michigan charges a 6% sales tax on the purchase price of the vehicle. This tax is calculated on the full purchase price you paid the seller and is collected by the Secretary of State at the time of the title transfer. There is no sales tax on vehicles transferred as gifts between immediate family members.

Can I transfer an out-of-state title to Michigan?

Yes, when moving to Michigan you must transfer your out-of-state title to a Michigan title. You will need to bring your out-of-state title, proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance, and your valid driver’s license to an SOS office. The SOS may perform a VIN inspection before issuing you a new Michigan title and registration.

Key Takeaways: How to Transfer a Car Title in Michigan

Successfully transferring a car title in Michigan comes down to preparation and attention to detail. By understanding the timeline, required documents, and specific steps for both the buyer and seller, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth process.

Here are the most important points to remember:

• 15-Day Deadline is Critical: You must complete the title transfer at a Secretary of State office within 15 days of the vehicle’s sale date to avoid a $15 late fee and a potential legal misdemeanor.
• The Title is the Key Document: The seller must accurately complete their section on the original title, including the odometer disclosure and signature. The buyer cannot complete the process without this properly signed document.
• Michigan No-Fault Insurance is Mandatory: You must secure a valid Michigan No-Fault insurance policy for the vehicle before you can transfer the title and register it in your name.
• Sales Tax is 6%: Be prepared to pay a 6% sales tax on the vehicle’s purchase price, in addition to the $15 title fee and registration costs, unless it is a tax-exempt gift to an immediate family member.
• Special Scenarios Require Extra Documents: Transfers involving a deceased owner, a family gift, or a vehicle with a lien require specific extra steps and forms (like Letters of Authority, Form TR-29, or a lien release) to be legally completed.
• Appointments are Usually Required: The majority of title transfers are done in person at an SOS office, which almost always requires scheduling an appointment online in advance.
• Seller’s Presence Isn’t Needed at the SOS: Only the buyer needs to go to the SOS office. The seller’s job is finished once they have correctly signed the title and handed it to the buyer.

Final Thoughts on Your Michigan Title Transfer

Navigating the Michigan title transfer process doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following the official procedures outlined by the Secretary of State, you ensure a smooth and legal change of ownership. Remember to be meticulous with the paperwork, respect the 15-day deadline, and secure insurance beforehand. With this guide, you have the knowledge to complete the transfer confidently and get on the road without any issues.