New York Auto Title Transfers

Buying from a Private Owner

Before transferring the title, be sure you have an executed Bill of Sale Form with the current owner.  Then the current owner should complete the first assignment section on the back of the title.  Be sure they enter the following information:

• Purchaser's full legal name and current address.  This name should match the name on your New York driver's license or state identification card.
• Date of sale (month, day, and year).
• The odometer reading at the time of the sale, rounded without the tenths of a mile.  There are some exceptions to the odometer requirement.  Generally, for cars newer than 10 years old, the reading is required.  Click here for details on the exception.  If it is not required, write the word "exempt" instead of the reading.
• If the odometer does not accurately reflect the total actual mileage the vehicle has been driven, check the appropriate box.
• The current owner must also print and sign their name.  If the car is jointly owned, all owners must print and sign their names.

The purchaser must then do the following:

• Acknowledge the odometer declaration by printing and signing their name in the appropriate place.  If jointly purchased, all new owners must print and sign their name.
• DO NOT sign a title that is blank.
• Complete the Damage Disclosure Statement on the back of the title. 
• Make sure that all liens listed on the title have been previously released, or you will end up responsible for them.
• Did you search for the vehicle history report?

To COMPLETE the transfer, you must present the following to a DMV title office within 30 days of the sale date.

• Form MV-82 - Vehicle Registration/Title Application MV-82 form.
• Statement of Transaction Form DTF-802.
• Properly assigned title.
• Emission Inspection Certificate if required by your county (if the vehicle is from out of the country).
• Proof of your own auto insurance.
• Payment for the $50 title fee, registration fees and taxes.

Moved New York Resident Title Transfer

New residents moving to New York are required to title and register their vehicle in New York. 

• Form MV-82 - Vehicle Registration/Title Application MV-82 form. If you only need the title, and not the registration, fill out MV-802TON.
• Statement of Transaction Form DTF-802.
• Emmission Inspection Certificate if required by your county.
• Proof of ownership such as an out-of-state vehicle title in your name or lienholder information.
• Proof of your own auto insurance.
• New York Driver's License or ID card.
• Payment for the $50 title fee, transfer and registration fees.

Replace a Lost or Damaged Title

You can replace a title online, by mail or in person at your local DMV office.

• If replacing online: Complete the form here. You can only replace a title online if you are the owner of the vehicle, have a current U.S. address on file with the DMV, and there are no other changes to the certificate. For example, you cannot replace a title that is amended or a duplicate title certificate with with a lien removed. Your current address must be listed with the DMV as that is where the title certificate will be mailed. 
• If replacing my mail: Complete an MV-902 application form. Include a valid form of identity (copy of a NYS license, Learner Permit, or Non-Driver ID) and a $20 check made payable to the "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles". The addresses for standard or express mail are listed here. 
• If replacing in person: Complete an MV-902 application form. Bring a form of valid identification and the $20 fee. If you have your damaged title, bring it with you.