How to Apply for a Vehicle Title in Alabama: Step-by-Step Guide
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Vehicle titles are required for most vehicles in Alabama. If you’re planning to buy a car, it’s important to understand how to get a title after the purchase.
Learn how to apply for a vehicle title in Alabama, including how to submit the title application for Alabama and other documents to provide. Then find cheap car insurance in Alabama to register your vehicle.
Introduction to Title Applications in Alabama
An Alabama application for a certificate of title allows residents to obtain proof of ownership for certain motor vehicles. Alabama has title laws dictating who can apply for titles, when you can apply for a title, and how to apply for a title.
You must meet the requirements dictated by the Alabama title application and the Alabama Department of Revenue. This includes specific documentation and title application fees, as well as other requirements set by your county and unique situation.
Understanding Vehicle Titles in Alabama
The state of Alabama requires titles for most motor vehicles. A vehicle title proves that you own your vehicle. It may include information such as your vehicle’s make and model, vehicle identification number (VIN), and odometer reading. It will also give the vehicle owner’s name and address, as well as a place to list lienholder information.
In addition to proving ownership, vehicle titles in Alabama provide the necessary information for title transfers. For example, if you buy or sell a vehicle in Alabama, the title gives the state sale information so the new owner can apply for a title.
Types of Vehicles Requiring Titles in Alabama
Alabama requires titles for most vehicles, including:
- Motor vehicles, motorcycles, and motor homes that are 35 model years old or newer
- Travel trailers, pop-up trailers, and semi-trailers that are 20 model years old or newer
- Manufactured homes that are 2000 model year or newer
Vehicles exempt from title requirements include boat trailers, bumper pull trailers, farm equipment, and special mobile equipment, such as asphalt spreaders or bucket loaders.
Who Can Apply for a Title?
Vehicle owners and recorded lienholders can apply for titles in Alabama. Current owners may apply for replacement titles or new titles if they have recently purchased the vehicle, as long as they meet all the requirements for the Alabama application for title.
Lienholders, such as dealerships or financial institutions, may apply for a title to prove that they hold an interest in the vehicle. The title will indicate they are a lienholder, and they can use the title to repossess the vehicle if necessary.
Steps to Apply for a Title in Alabama
You can submit an application for a certificate of title in Alabama by visiting any agent of the Department of Revenue. This might be a license plate issuing official, a licensed dealership, or a designated financial institution.
In addition to your title application, you’ll need to provide other documentation to prove you have or are taking legal ownership of the vehicle. Private sellers must provide you with the original title with the assignment made out to you. Both you and the seller must sign and date the title.
If you purchase the vehicle from a dealership, they must provide a manufacturer’s certificate of origin. Similar to a title, this has all of the necessary vehicle information.
A bill of sale is not required in Alabama, but it can be helpful if you want a record of an extra transaction or vehicle details.
When submitting your application and documentation, you need to pay a $15 title application fee. Agents are also allowed to add a fee of up to $1.50 for processing the application, and some counties may have additional fees.
Handling Lost or Damaged Titles
If you lose or damage your title, you can submit an application for a replacement title in Alabama. The application for a replacement title is similar to an application for a new title upon vehicle purchase. However, you can submit it online by using the Public Title Portal instead of visiting an agent in person.
Common Mistakes and Tips for Title Applications
One of the most common mistakes with title applications is incorrect or inconsistent information. You should always double-check that the information is accurate and matches your other documents. Pay special attention to owner names, lienholder names, addresses, dates, and signatures.
You should also avoid using white-out or other correction fluids on official documents. If you need to correct your application, fill out a new one.
Finally, check your county requirements for titles. You may be responsible for additional fees. If you’re using your title application to register the vehicle at the same time, you’ll need to meet other requirements, such as having proper Alabama auto insurance.
Compare Car Insurance Options Today
Car insurance in Alabama can vary drastically, providing different coverage options and rates to drivers in different ZIP codes. To find the best policy for you, take time to compare options from a variety of providers.
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