The Complete Guide to Georgia Car Title Transfers 2025

Thinking about buying or selling a car in Georgia? That final piece of paper—the title—can feel like a confusing last step.

The official Georgia car title transfer is a state-level process for changing a vehicle’s legal ownership. It’s the step that makes the sale official, but the rules can seem complex and unforgiving.

To transfer a car title in Georgia, the buyer must take the original signed title, a completed Form MV-1, a valid GA driver’s license, and proof of insurance to a County Tag Office within seven days of the sale and pay all required fees and taxes. This guide will walk you through every document, step, and potential problem to ensure a smooth transfer.

Key Facts

• 7-Day Deadline is Law: Georgia requires you to initiate the title transfer at a County Tag Office within seven days of the purchase date to avoid penalties.
• TAVT is the Major Cost: The largest fee is the one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), calculated on the vehicle’s fair market value, not the sale price.
• Standard Title Fee: A fixed, non-negotiable $18 administrative fee is required for the state to process the paperwork and issue a new title document.
• In-Person Process Required: You cannot transfer a car title online in Georgia. The transaction must be completed in person at your local County Tag Office.
• License Plates Stay with the Seller: In Georgia, license plates belong to the owner, not the vehicle. The seller must remove their plate before the buyer takes possession.

What Documents Do You Need to Transfer a Car Title in Georgia?

To transfer a car title in Georgia, you must bring the following items to your County Tag Office: the original, properly signed vehicle title; a completed Form MV-1 Title/Tag Application; your valid Georgia Driver’s License or ID; and proof of current Georgia liability insurance. Gathering these documents beforehand is the single most important step for a fast and successful visit.

Here is a simple checklist of everything you’ll need to have in hand:

• Original Certificate of Title: This is the legal document proving ownership. No photocopies or digital images are accepted. The seller must have signed it over to you in the designated section.
  • Pro Tip: Inspect the title carefully for any errors, white-out, or scratch-offs. Any alterations can void the document, causing major delays.
• Completed Form MV-1 Title/Tag Application: This is the official state form for applying for a new title and vehicle registration. You can download it from the Georgia Department of Revenue website and fill it out before your visit to save time.
  • Pro Tip: Use the vehicle’s VIN from the title to fill out the form accurately. A mismatch between the form and the title will cause your application to be rejected.
• Valid Georgia Driver’s License or ID Card: You must present a valid, unexpired Georgia-issued photo ID to prove your identity and residency.
  • Pro Tip: If you have recently moved to Georgia, you must obtain your GA driver’s license before you can title and register a vehicle.
• Proof of Georgia Insurance: You need to show proof of an active Georgia liability insurance policy for the vehicle you are titling. This is often transmitted electronically by your insurance company.
  • Pro Tip: Secure insurance on the vehicle before you go to the Tag Office. You cannot complete the registration process without it.
• Bill of Sale (Form T-7): While not always legally mandatory if the title is filled out perfectly, a Bill of Sale is highly recommended. It serves as a legal receipt for both parties.
  • Pro Tip: A Bill of Sale provides crucial proof of the purchase date, which is used to verify you are within the 7-day transfer window.

What Is the Original Certificate of Title?

The Certificate of Title is the official state-issued document that serves as the legal proof of ownership for a vehicle. Think of it as the deed to your car. This single piece of paper contains critical information, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the owner’s name and address, and any lienholders (like a bank that issued a loan).

For a transfer, the most important part is the “Assignment of Title” section on the back. The seller must fill this out completely and accurately, including:

• The current odometer reading (mileage)
• The date of the sale
• Their printed name
• Their legal signature

An expert warning: Any use of white-out or scribbled corrections can void the title, requiring the seller to apply for a replacement, which causes major delays. The buyer should never accept an improperly signed or altered title.

What Is the MV-1 Title/Tag Application?

The MV-1 Title/Tag Application is the mandatory state form required in Georgia to apply for a new title and license plate (tag) for a vehicle. This single form is the official request to the Georgia Department of Revenue to update their records and issue you a new title in your name.

This one form handles both the ownership record (the title) and the permission to drive the car on public roads (the tag/registration). You can download the most current version of the MV-1 form directly from the Georgia DOR’s website to ensure you are not using an outdated version.

What Is the Step-by-Step Process for Transferring a Car Title in Georgia?

The Georgia title transfer process involves the seller signing the title and providing an odometer reading, after which the buyer takes the title, MV-1 form, ID, and insurance proof to a County Tag Office within 7 days to pay fees and the Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT). The process is divided into clear responsibilities for both the seller and the buyer.

Following these steps in order prevents confusion and ensures a legal transfer. While the buyer and seller can handle their parts separately, a great pro tip is for both parties to go to the County Tag Office together. This allows any paperwork issues to be resolved on the spot.

For ultimate clarity, here is a breakdown of who does what:

Responsibility	Seller’s Action	Buyer’s Action
The Title	Accurately fill out the seller’s section, including printed name, signature, date, and odometer reading.	Inspect the title for accuracy and errors. Take possession of the physical title.
The Vehicle	Remove personal belongings and the license plate. The plate stays with the seller.	Secure auto insurance for the vehicle before going to the Tag Office.
The Paperwork	Provide the signed title and a Bill of Sale (recommended).	Complete the MV-1 Title/Tag Application. Gather all required documents.
The Tag Office	Not required to be present, but it’s a best practice to go with the buyer.	Visit a County Tag Office within 7 days of the sale date to submit all paperwork.
The Payment	Receive payment for the vehicle from the buyer.	Pay the $18 title fee and the Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) to the state.

Step 1: How Does the Seller Prepare for the Transfer?

As the seller, your main goal is to legally release ownership and protect yourself from any future liability associated with the vehicle. The seller’s main responsibilities are to pay off any liens, accurately sign the title with the odometer reading, provide a Bill of Sale, and remove their license plate from the vehicle.

Here is your checklist:

1. Clear Any Liens: If you have a loan on the car, you must pay it off completely before you can sell it. Your lender (the lienholder) will then provide you with a lien release, which you must give to the buyer.
2. Accurately Complete the Title: Carefully fill out the seller’s section on the back of the title. This includes the odometer reading, sale date, your printed name, and your signature. This act of signing is what legally “assigns” ownership to the buyer.
3. Provide a Bill of Sale: Use the official Georgia Form T-7 Bill of Sale. This document serves as a receipt and protects both you and the buyer by recording the transaction details.
4. Remove Your License Plate: Removing your license plate is required by Georgia law, as plates belong to the owner, not the vehicle. This protects you from any tickets or tolls the new owner might get before they register the car.

Step 2: What Must the Buyer Do to Finalize the Transfer?

As the buyer, your responsibility is to take the documents provided by the seller and officially register the car in your name with the state. The buyer must take all paperwork to a County Tag Office within 7 days of the purchase to pay the TAVT and title fee, and to apply for a new license plate and registration.

Here is your action plan:

1. Get Insurance: Before you can title or register the car, you must have an active Georgia auto insurance policy.
2. Gather Your Documents: Collect the signed title from the seller, your completed MV-1 form, your Georgia driver’s license, and proof of your insurance.
3. Visit Your County Tag Office: You must do this within 7 days of the sale date. To find your local office, search online for “[Your County] Tag Office.”
   • Pro Tip: Based on practical experience, it’s wise to call your County Tag Office or check their website for appointment requirements and accepted payment methods. Some may not accept credit cards for TAVT payments.
4. Submit Paperwork and Pay Fees: Present your document package to the clerk, pay the required title fee and TAVT, and you will be issued a new license plate or a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP) to use while your new title is processed and mailed to you.

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

The cost to transfer a car title in Georgia is a fixed $18 title fee plus a variable Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT). The TAVT is a one-time tax based on the vehicle’s fair market value, not the sales price. Penalties apply for transfers completed after 7 days.

Let’s break down the costs:

• Title Fee: A standard $18 fee is charged for the administrative processing and printing of the new Certificate of Title.
• Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT): This is the largest expense. TAVT is a one-time tax that replaced both the sales tax and the annual property tax (or “birthday tax”) on vehicles in Georgia.
  • Information Gain: What most guides miss is that TAVT is calculated based on the vehicle’s fair market value as determined by the Georgia Department of Revenue’s official value book. It is NOT based on the purchase price you negotiated with the seller. This is a critical distinction that can prevent a major surprise at the counter. You can get an estimate using the official TAVT calculator on the Georgia DOR website.
• Registration Fee: This is the annual fee for your license plate, which is typically $20 for a standard passenger vehicle plate.
• Late Penalties: If you fail to apply for the title transfer within 7 days, you will be charged a penalty. The penalty for late TAVT payment starts at 10% of the total tax due and increases over time.

How Do You Handle Special Title Transfer Scenarios?

While the standard private sale is common, many transfers involve unique circumstances. Special title transfers, like from out-of-state, inheritance, or as a gift, follow the basic process but require additional specific documentation such as proof of residency, probate court orders, or surrendering the previous state’s title.

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

If you are a new resident moving to Georgia with a car titled in another state, you must get a Georgia title and registration. The process is similar to a standard transfer, but you’ll need a few extra items.

To transfer an out-of-state title, you need to bring the following to the County Tag Office:

1. The original out-of-state Certificate of Title. You will be required to surrender this to the state of Georgia.
2. Your valid Georgia Driver’s License.
3. Proof of Georgia residency (like a utility bill or bank statement).
4. A completed Form MV-1 Title/Tag Application.
5. Proof of active Georgia insurance.
6. Payment for the TAVT and title fees.

In some cases, a VIN inspection by a law enforcement officer may be required if the vehicle has never been titled in Georgia before.

How Do You Transfer a Title to a Family Member or as a Gift?

Many people assume gifting a car means there are no taxes involved. This is a common and costly mistake.

To gift a car in Georgia, the owner signs the title over to the recipient. The recipient then takes the title to the Tag Office and pays the $18 fee and the Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), which is calculated on the car’s fair market value, not the sale price. Because TAVT is a tax on the vehicle’s value and not the sale transaction, it is still due even if the purchase price is $0 or marked as “GIFT”. The process is otherwise identical to a standard transfer.

How Do You Transfer a Title From a Deceased Person?

Transferring a title for an inherited vehicle is a more complex process that involves estate law. In addition to the standard documents like the original title and MV-1 form, you will typically need to provide legal documentation from the probate court.

Key documents usually required are:

• The original Death Certificate.
• Letters of Testamentary or Letters of Administration, which are official documents issued by a probate court that name the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate. The person named in these letters is the one with the legal authority to sign the title on behalf of the deceased.

Disclaimer: This process involves legal matters of estate law. While these are the typical requirements, it is wise to consult with the probate court or an attorney for guidance on your specific situation.

What If the Car Title Has a Lien on It?

To transfer a Georgia title with a lien, the seller must pay off the loan. The lender then provides a lien release (e.g., Form T-4 or a signed letter). The buyer submits this lien release along with the signed title at the County Tag Office to get a new, clear title.

A lien is a legal claim a lender (like a bank or credit union) has on a vehicle until a loan is paid in full. You cannot transfer clean ownership to a buyer if an active lien exists.

Here’s the process:

1. Seller Pays Off the Loan: The seller must contact their lender and pay the remaining balance on the auto loan.
2. Lender Provides a Lien Release: Once the loan is satisfied, the lender will provide an official document releasing their claim. This can be a completed Form T-4 Lien Release or an official letter from the bank on their letterhead.
3. Buyer Submits Documents: The buyer takes the original title, the official lien release document, and all other standard paperwork to the County Tag Office.

An experienced pro tip: The safest way to handle this is for the buyer and seller to conduct the transaction at the seller’s bank. The buyer’s payment can go directly to the lender, who can then provide the lien release on the spot, ensuring a secure and immediate transaction.

How Do You Solve Common Georgia Title Problems?

Even with careful preparation, issues can arise. Here are solutions to the most common title transfer problems.

Problem: The Title is Lost or Destroyed

If a Georgia car title is lost, the current owner of record must apply for a replacement title before they can sell the vehicle. The buyer cannot complete the transfer with a lost title. A replacement title can be obtained through the Georgia DOR for a fee. A buyer should never purchase a vehicle if the seller cannot produce the physical title.

Problem: There’s an Error on the Title

If there is a mistake, like a name being misspelled or a signature in the wrong spot, do not use white-out or try to correct it yourself. This will void the title. The owner may need to file a special affidavit (Form T-4) to correct the error or apply for a replacement title.

Problem: The Transfer is Late (Past 7 Days)

If you miss the 7-day deadline, you will be charged a penalty. Go to the Tag Office as soon as possible and be prepared to pay the late TAVT payment penalty, which starts at 10% of the tax due and increases the longer you wait.

Problem: The Seller Gave You an “Open Title” (Title Jumping)

“Title jumping” is when a seller gives a buyer a title that has been signed by a previous owner but not by the seller themselves. This is illegal in Georgia. The name of the person selling you the car must match the owner’s name printed on the front of the title. Do not buy a car in this situation, as you will not be able to legally title it in your name.

FAQs About how to transfer title of car in georgia

Can I transfer a car title online in Georgia?

No, you cannot transfer a car title online in Georgia. The state requires the buyer to submit the original signed title and other documents in person at a County Tag Office. While you can download forms like the MV-1 online beforehand, the final transaction must be completed in person.

Do both the buyer and seller need to be present for a title transfer in GA?

No, typically only the buyer needs to be present at the Tag Office. As long as the seller has properly and completely signed the title, the buyer can finalize the process alone. However, it is a highly recommended best practice for both parties to go together to prevent any issues with the paperwork.

What happens if I wait longer than 7 days to transfer the title?

You will be charged penalties for a late transfer. Georgia law requires the transfer to be initiated within 7 days. If you wait longer, you will have to pay a late TAVT payment penalty, which starts at 10% of the tax due and increases over time, plus potential fines.

Is a Bill of Sale required to transfer a title in Georgia?

A Bill of Sale is not always legally required in Georgia, but it is highly recommended. If the back of the title is filled out completely and accurately, it can serve as proof of transfer. However, a separate Bill of Sale (Form T-7) is the best way for both buyer and seller to have a legal record of the sale price, date, and vehicle condition.

How do I get a title for a car I bought without a title in Georgia?

You should not buy a car without a title in Georgia. A title is the only legal proof of ownership. If the seller does not have it, they must apply for a replacement title before selling it to you. Purchasing a car without a title is extremely risky and may involve a complex and expensive “bonded title” process with no guarantee of success.

Key Takeaways: Georgia Car Title Transfer Summary

• The 7-Day Deadline is Crucial: You must visit a County Tag Office to start the transfer process within seven days of purchasing the vehicle to avoid significant financial penalties.
• TAVT is the Biggest Cost: The main expense is the one-time Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), which is based on the car’s fair market value as determined by the state, not the price you paid.
• The Original Title is Everything: Only the original, physical title is accepted. It must be free of errors, alterations, or white-out. The seller must apply for a replacement if it’s lost.
• Buyer and Seller Have Clear Roles: The seller signs the title and removes their license plate. The buyer gathers all documents, secures insurance, and finalizes the process at the Tag Office.
• Go to the Tag Office Together: The single best way to prevent problems is for the buyer and seller to complete the transaction together at the County Tag Office.
• Check for Liens Before You Buy: Always ask the seller if there is a loan on the car. If so, you must receive an official lien release from their bank to get a clear title.
• It’s an In-Person Process: Georgia does not offer online title transfers. You must prepare for an in-person visit to your local County Tag Office.

Final Thoughts on Your Georgia Title Transfer

Navigating the Georgia car title transfer process can feel intimidating, but it is a straightforward procedure when you are prepared. By gathering the correct documents, understanding the roles of both the buyer and seller, and being aware of the costs and deadlines, you can ensure a hassle-free experience.

Remember that accuracy is key—double-check every signature and piece of information before heading to the County Tag Office. With this guide as your checklist, you have all the information you need to confidently and legally transfer ownership of your vehicle in 2025.