How to Transfer a Car Title in Ohio: A Step-by-Step Guide
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If you're buying, selling, or donating a vehicle in Ohio, you need to understand the process of changing ownership. Transferring a title in Ohio isn't a difficult thing to do, but you must do it properly to avoid confusion and legally demonstrate proof of ownership. Here, we break down the step-by-step process of how to transfer a car title in Ohio.
Understanding Vehicle Title Transfers in Ohio
Unlike some other states, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) does not issue vehicle titles in Ohio. Rather, this is done by the Clerk of Courts title offices. There are many different title processes, including:
- Titling new vehicles
- Titling used vehicles
- Transferring titles upon death
- Titling for vehicles other than cars
We'll break down the general titling process in this piece, but for more specific information, head over to the Ohio BMV website.
Required Paperwork for a Title Transfer in Ohio
The required paperwork for transferring a title in Ohio depends on the transaction.
- New vehicle: If you purchase from an Ohio dealership, the dealer will handle title paperwork for you. If you purchased from an out-of-state dealer, you'll need the bill of sale, the Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), and the Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (form BMV 3774).
- Used vehicle: The seller(s) must complete page 1 of the Ownership Assignment and Title Application for Casual Sale (form BMV 3770) and have it notarized. The buyer(s) must complete page 2 and have it notarized.
Step-by-Step Process for Private Sales
If you're selling a car in Ohio, you can transfer a title to a buyer electronically or physically. To do so electronically, the original title must be already held electronically. Follow these steps:
- Seller completes page 1 of form BMV 3770 and gets signature notarized by a notary public.
- Seller sends completed form BMV 3770 to buyer.
- Buyer completes page 2 of form BMV 3770 and gets signature notarized. (If they want a physical title they can request it on the electronic form.)
- Buyer submits form at a County Clerk of Courts Title Office.
To transfer a physical title:
- Seller completes "Assignment of Ownership" portion on the back of the title and gets signature notarized.
- Seller gives completed title to buyer.
- Buyer goes to County Clerk of Courts Title Office with title, identification, sales tax based on purchase price, and payment for title fees.
Title Transfer Process for Dealership Purchases
If you purchase a vehicle at an Ohio dealer, the title transfer process is very easy. In fact, the dealer will handle everything. If you need a replacement title or duplicate title, the dealership can also assist with that process.
Understanding Ohio Title Transfer Fees
The typical cost for transferring a title in Ohio is $15. However, you may have to pay additional fees such as:
- Lien notation: $15
- Out-of-state inspection: $6.50
- Late fee: $5
- Sales tax: Depends on purchase price
Out-of-State Title Transfers
To register a vehicle and get Ohio license plates, you must convert an out-of-state title to an Ohio title.
If you purchased a new vehicle at an out-of-state dealer, you'll need to go to the County Clerk of Courts Title Office and provide:
- Bill of sale
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- Signed Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (form BMV 3774).
For a used vehicle, you must provide:
- Out-of-state title certificate
- Bill of sale
- Driver's license or identification card
- Out-of-state vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection report
- Payment for title fees
- Sales tax on the purchase price
- Proof of car insurance in Ohio
Special Circumstances: Gifting and Inheriting Vehicles
Of course, there are a few instances in which you're transferring a vehicle title in Ohio without a purchase. Some of these instances include:
- Transfer on Death (TOD): To transfer a title upon death, a beneficiary must provide a signed and notarized Affidavit to Designate a Beneficiary (form BMV 3811), the original Ohio title, a certified copy of the death certificate, the Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (Form BMV 3774), and a government-issued driver's license or ID card.
- Transfer to surviving spouse: A spouse may take ownership of a vehicle by providing the original Ohio Certificate of Title (if applicable), a certified copy of the death certificate, the Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (Form BMV 3774), and a government-issued driver's license or ID card.
- Vehicle donation: To donate to a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization, you must simply sign over a title to the charity, following the private sales process outlined above. Rather than pay sales tax, you'll get a donation receipt to file for a tax deduction.
Protect Your Investment: Find the Right Auto Insurance!
Auto insurance in Ohio is legally required. But more than that, it helps all drivers protect their cars and themselves. If you're looking for cheap car insurance in Ohio after transferring a title, use EverQuote's comparison tools to find the best coverage options and insurance premiums for your budget.