How to Transfer a Car Title in Colorado The Complete Guide

Struggling with how to transfer the title of a car in Colorado? You’re not alone; navigating the official requirements can feel overwhelming, leaving you worried about missing a critical step or document. This process is crucial for establishing legal ownership.

To transfer a car title in Colorado, the seller must sign the existing title over to the buyer, and the buyer must then take the signed title, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to their county motor vehicle office. This process, which may also require a VIN verification for out-of-state titles, officially registers the new ownership with the state and must be completed within 60 days of the sale.

This guide is built on the latest 2026 official guidelines from the Colorado Department of Revenue. We’ll provide a clear, step-by-step roadmap for both buyers and sellers. You will learn exactly what documents you need, how much it costs, and how to handle special situations to ensure a smooth, legal transfer.

Key Facts

• Buyer’s 60-Day Deadline: The buyer is legally required to apply for a new title at their county motor vehicle office within 60 days of the purchase date to avoid penalties.
• Late Fee Penalties: Failing to transfer the title within the 60-day window results in a $25 late fee, which increases monthly up to a maximum of $100.
• In-Person Process Required: As of 2026, a Colorado car title transfer cannot be fully completed online. The buyer must physically submit the original documents to a county motor vehicle office.
• VIN Verification for Out-of-State Titles: If the vehicle’s current title is from another state, a Verification of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection is mandatory before a Colorado title can be issued.
• Bill of Sale is Crucial for Taxes: A completed Bill of Sale is essential as the DMV uses the purchase price listed on it to calculate the applicable state and local sales tax you owe.

How to Transfer the Title of a Car in Colorado: What Are The Steps?

The official process to transfer a car title in Colorado is a legal procedure that formally moves vehicle ownership from the seller to the buyer. This is finalized when the buyer submits the seller-signed title and other required paperwork to their local Colorado county motor vehicle office. This action is not just a formality; it’s a legal requirement that protects both parties after a sale.

Based on the 2026 guidelines from the Colorado Department of Revenue, the responsibility for this process is split. The seller initiates the transfer by properly endorsing the existing title, and the buyer is responsible for completing the application with the state. This guide breaks down the exact steps for each party to ensure your transfer is seamless and complies with all state regulations.

According to Colorado state law, the buyer is required to apply for the new title and registration within 60 days of the purchase. This is a firm deadline, and missing it will result in financial penalties.

At the same time you apply for a new title, you will typically also complete the vehicle registration and pay any applicable sales tax. The entire transaction is usually handled in a single visit to the motor vehicle office. Ready to ensure your transfer is smooth and avoids costly mistakes? Let’s walk through every document you’ll need.

What Documents Are Required for a Colorado Car Title Transfer?

For a standard Colorado car title transfer, the buyer must present the original Certificate of Title, a Bill of Sale, proof of current Colorado vehicle insurance, and a government-issued secure and verifiable ID. If the vehicle is being brought in from another state, an official VIN verification form is also required. Having these documents prepared is the single most important step to avoid a wasted trip to the DMV.

Our experience in handling countless vehicle transactions shows that missing even one of these items is the most common reason for delays. Here is a complete checklist of what you need and why:

1. Completed Certificate of Title: This is the original title, not a copy. It must be properly signed by all individuals listed as owners on the front of the title. The title is the core legal document that proves ownership.
2. Bill of Sale: This document serves as your receipt and must include the buyer’s and seller’s names, the purchase price, the sale date, and the vehicle’s year, make, and VIN. The DMV uses this to calculate the sales tax you owe.
3. Proof of Colorado Auto Insurance: You must provide current, valid proof of insurance for the vehicle you are titling. This can be a digital or printed insurance card.
4. Secure and Verifiable ID: The state requires a valid, government-issued photo ID to confirm your identity. A Colorado driver’s license, U.S. passport, or military ID are common examples.
5. Odometer Disclosure: For any vehicle less than 20 years old, the seller must accurately write the current odometer reading on the title. This is a federal requirement.
6. Payment for Fees and Taxes: Be prepared to pay for the title fee, registration fees, and the calculated sales tax. Most county offices accept cash, checks, and credit cards.

Pro-Tip: Before heading to the DMV, make photocopies or take clear pictures of all your signed documents, especially the front and back of the completed title and the Bill of Sale. This creates a personal record of the transaction.

What Is the Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process for the Seller?

The seller’s primary responsibility in a Colorado title transfer is to accurately complete and sign their portion on the back of the original Certificate of Title. This act of signing over the title legally releases their ownership interest to the buyer. It’s crucial to do this correctly to avoid voiding the title and causing significant delays.

Based on years of guiding clients, we’ve found that sellers who follow these steps precisely protect themselves from future liability. Here’s your checklist:

1. Accurately Record the Odometer Reading: In the designated section on the title, write the vehicle’s current mileage. Do not include tenths of a mile. Misrepresenting the odometer is a serious offense.
2. Print the Buyer’s Full Name and Address: Clearly write the full legal name(s) and address of the person or people buying the vehicle.
3. Enter the Purchase Price and Date of Sale: Fill in the final sale price and the exact date the transaction took place.
4. Sign Your Name: Sign your 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.
5. Provide a Bill of Sale: Give the buyer a completed and signed Bill of Sale. This is their proof of purchase and is necessary for them to calculate taxes.
6. Report the Transfer of Ownership: This is a critical final step. Go to the MyDMV.Colorado.gov website and use the “Report Release of Liability” service. This informs the state you no longer own the vehicle, protecting you from any tickets or legal issues incurred by the new owner.

Warning: Never sign the title and leave the buyer’s name field blank. This practice, known as “title jumping,” is illegal in Colorado and leaves you liable for the vehicle. Always fill in the buyer’s information completely before signing.

Common Seller Mistakes to Avoid

• Using White-Out: Any correction fluid or crossing out information can void the entire title.
• Signing in the Wrong Spot: Double-check that you are signing on the “Seller’s Signature” line.
• Forgetting to Remove License Plates: Your license plates belong to you, not the vehicle. Remove them before the buyer drives away.

What Is the Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process for the Buyer?

After purchasing a vehicle, the buyer has 60 days to apply for a new title in their name at their local county motor vehicle office. The buyer must present all the necessary paperwork from the seller and pay the required fees and taxes to officially complete the transfer and become the legal owner.

This is the final and most important phase of the process. From our practical implementation experience, being prepared for this visit is key. Follow these steps for a successful trip to the DMV:

1. Verify the Seller’s Information: Before you pay, double-check that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the title matches the VIN plate on the car (usually on the dashboard or driver’s side door jamb). Ensure the seller has signed the title correctly.
2. Obtain a VIN Verification (If Applicable): If the title is from any state other than Colorado, you must get the vehicle’s VIN inspected. This is covered in more detail below.
3. Gather All Required Documents: Use the checklist from the section above to ensure you have the signed title, Bill of Sale, proof of insurance, and your secure ID ready.
4. Visit Your County Motor Vehicle Office: You must go to the motor vehicle office in the county where you reside. Do this within 60 days of the purchase date on your Bill of Sale.
5. Submit Your Application and Documents: A motor vehicle clerk will review your paperwork to ensure everything is completed correctly.
6. Pay All Applicable Title Fees and Sales Tax: Once your documents are approved, you will pay the title fee, sales tax on the purchase price, and any registration fees. You will then be issued your new registration and license plates.

Crucial Deadline: The 60-day deadline is strict. If you apply on day 61, you will be charged a late fee of $25, which increases by $25 each month up to a maximum of $100.

The VIN Verification Process for Out-of-State Titles

A VIN verification is a physical inspection required to confirm a vehicle’s identity when it has an out-of-state title. The purpose is to prevent fraud and ensure the vehicle matches its ownership documents. This inspection must be documented on the Verification of Vehicle Identification Number form (DR 2698).

You can get a VIN verification performed at:
* A licensed Colorado motor vehicle dealer
* A Colorado licensed inspection and re-inspection station
* Any Colorado law enforcement officer

What Are the Costs and Fees for a Colorado Title Transfer in 2026?

The total cost to transfer a car title in Colorado is a combination of a standard state title fee, variable state and local sales tax based on the purchase price, and any applicable vehicle registration fees. Understanding these costs beforehand helps you budget appropriately for your DMV visit.

To provide clarity, we’ve broken down the typical costs associated with a title transfer in 2026. The final amount will be calculated by the clerk at your county motor vehicle office.

Cost-Saving Tip: The easiest way to save money is to avoid penalties. To avoid late fees that can reach up to $100, make sure to visit the DMV within 60 days of the sale date printed on your Bill of Sale.

Note: Fees listed above are subject to change. Always check your local county motor vehicle office website for the most current 2026 fee schedule before your visit.

How Do You Handle Special Title Transfer Scenarios in Colorado?

While a standard private sale is common, many transfers involve unique circumstances like inheritance, gifts, or lost documents. These situations require specific steps and additional paperwork. Demonstrating expertise in these advanced scenarios, we can guide you through the correct procedure.

How Do You Transfer an Inherited Car Title?

To transfer an inherited car title in Colorado, the estate’s executor or heir must present the owner’s death certificate, the original title, and legal documents proving their authority to the DMV. The specific documents depend on whether the estate went through probate court.

• For Estates in Probate: The court-appointed Personal Representative (Executor) will need to provide Letters of Testamentary issued by the probate court.
• For Small Estates (No Probate): If the deceased person’s estate is small enough to avoid probate, the heir can use an Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property to claim the vehicle.

The authorized person then signs the title over to the new owner (which could be themselves or a third-party buyer) and completes the transfer process at the DMV.

How Do You Transfer a Car Title as a Gift?

To transfer a car title as a gift in Colorado, both the giver and receiver follow the standard process, but “GIFT” is written in the purchase price field on the title and Bill of Sale. This indicates no money was exchanged, making the transaction exempt from sales tax.

While you won’t pay sales tax, the person receiving the car is still responsible for paying the standard title and registration fees at the county motor vehicle office. Some counties may require a signed affidavit or a Statement of Fact form to formally declare the vehicle was a gift.

What if the Car Title Is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged?

If a Colorado car title is lost or destroyed, the legal owner must first apply for a duplicate title before any transfer can occur. You cannot sell or transfer a vehicle without this essential document.

The process is straightforward:
1. The current owner whose name is on the title must complete an Application for Duplicate Title (Form DR 2539A).
2. They must take this form and a secure ID to their county motor vehicle office and pay the required duplicate title fee.
3. Once the duplicate title is received in the mail, you can then proceed with the standard seller/buyer transfer process.

How Do You Transfer an Out-of-State Title to Colorado?

To transfer an out-of-state title to Colorado, you must complete all standard transfer steps plus obtain a VIN verification. This physical inspection is the key additional requirement for any vehicle coming from another state, whether you are a new resident or just bought the car from an out-of-state seller.

The VIN verification must be performed by an authorized entity in Colorado, such as law enforcement or a licensed car dealer. They will complete the Verification of Vehicle Identification Number form (DR 2698), which you must submit to the DMV along with the out-of-state title and all other required documents.

FAQs About How to Transfer a Car Title in Colorado

Can I transfer a car title online in Colorado?

No, you cannot fully transfer a car title online in Colorado as of 2026. While some services like reporting a release of liability can be done online, the final title application by the buyer must be completed in person at a county motor vehicle office. This is because the original title and other physical documents must be surrendered and verified.

How long does it take to get the new title after applying?

After you submit your application, you can typically expect to receive the new title by mail within 4 to 6 weeks. Your registration and license plates (if applicable) will be issued at the time of your visit, allowing you to legally drive the vehicle immediately while you wait for the official title document to be processed and mailed by the state.

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

No, the buyer and seller do not need to be present at the DMV at the same time. The seller’s only job is to properly sign the title and provide it to the buyer. It is then the buyer’s sole responsibility to take all the required documents to their county motor vehicle office to complete the transfer process.

What happens if I buy a car and don’t transfer the title in Colorado?

If you fail to transfer the title into your name within 60 days of purchase, you will incur late fees starting at $25 and increasing monthly up to a maximum of $100. More importantly, you do not have legal proof of ownership, which can lead to significant problems if the car is in an accident, stolen, or if the seller fails to report the sale and you receive their traffic tickets.

How do I transfer a title for a car with a lien on it?

You must have the lien released by the lienholder before the title can be transferred to a new owner. The lienholder (e.g., the bank or credit union that issued the car loan) must provide a signed lien release statement or sign off on the designated area of the title itself. The buyer cannot obtain a clear title until this lien is officially released.

Is a Bill of Sale legally required in Colorado for a title transfer?

While not always legally mandatory for all transfers, a Bill of Sale is highly recommended and practically required. The Colorado DMV uses the Bill of Sale to verify the purchase price for calculating sales tax. Without it, the DMV may assess tax based on the vehicle’s book value, which could be higher than what you paid. It also serves as a legal receipt for both parties.

How do I fill out the odometer reading on the title?

You must write the vehicle’s current mileage without decimals. For vehicles that are 20 years or older, you may be able to check a box indicating it is “exempt” from the odometer disclosure requirement. Misrepresenting the odometer reading is a federal offense, so accuracy is critical.

Can I get a temporary permit after buying a car?

Yes, you can obtain a temporary operating permit that allows you to legally drive the vehicle while you gather the necessary documents for the full title transfer and registration. These permits are available at your county motor vehicle office and are typically valid for a set period, such as 30 or 60 days. You will need to show proof of ownership (like a signed title or bill of sale) and proof of insurance.

What is a “secure and verifiable ID”?

A secure and verifiable ID is a government-issued identification document that the Colorado DMV can confirm is legitimate. Common examples include a valid U.S. passport, a Colorado driver’s license or state ID card, a military ID, or other specific documents listed on the official Colorado DMV website. Standard company ID cards or credit cards are not acceptable.

Can a mistake on a title be corrected?

Yes, but you should never use white-out or cross out information, as this can void the title. If a minor mistake is made, the person who made the error may need to complete a “Statement of Fact” form explaining the correction. For significant errors, you may need to apply for a duplicate title, so it is crucial to fill out the title slowly and carefully.

Key Takeaways: How to Transfer a Car Title in Colorado Summary

• The Buyer is Responsible: The seller’s job is to sign the title correctly. The buyer is legally responsible for taking all documents to a county motor vehicle office to complete the transfer.
• Act Within 60 Days: The buyer has 60 days from the date of sale to apply for the new title. Missing this deadline results in late fees starting at $25 and increasing each month.
• Key Documents are Non-Negotiable: You absolutely must have the original, seller-signed Certificate of Title, a Bill of Sale, proof of insurance, and a secure ID. Forgetting any of these will result in a wasted trip to the DMV.
• Out-of-State Titles Need VIN Verification: If the vehicle’s current title is from any state other than Colorado, you must get a VIN verification inspection done by law enforcement or a licensed dealer before you can transfer the title.
• Budget for Fees and Taxes: The total cost includes a small state title fee (~$7.20), registration fees, and, most significantly, state and local sales tax based on the vehicle’s purchase price.
• Never Accept an “Open Title”: As a buyer, never accept a title where the seller has signed it but left the buyer’s name field blank. This is an illegal practice called “title jumping” and can cause major legal and financial problems.
• Sellers Must Report the Sale: After selling the vehicle, the seller should immediately report the transfer online through the Colorado DMV’s “Release of Liability” service to ensure they are no longer legally responsible for the vehicle.

Final Thoughts on Your Colorado Title Transfer

Successfully transferring a car title in Colorado comes down to careful preparation and attention to detail. What may seem like a complex bureaucratic task is actually a straightforward process when you know the specific roles of the buyer and seller, gather the correct documents, and adhere to the state’s deadlines. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the transaction, avoid common pitfalls and penalties, and secure your legal ownership without unnecessary stress. Armed with this knowledge, you are fully equipped to handle your title transfer efficiently and correctly.