Illinois DMV Title Transfer Guide

How To Transfer A Vehicle Title In Illinois

Your car title doesn’t just state the official owner of the car, it also tracks the history of the ownership across the car’s lifetime. If the car has a lien on it, the lending institution will be listed as the owner. If the car is owned by a married couple, it will list both spouses as the owners.

If an individual owns it outright, their name will be the only one that appears on the title. As the car changes hands in Illinois, the changes will be tracked on the official title so there are no legal disputes down the road. If you’re wondering how much is a title transfer or what the title transfer requirements are, learn more about the process so you don’t land in legal trouble.

What Do You Need To Transfer A Car Title In Illinois?

If you’re registering a car in Illinois from another state, you’ll need the original title and registration, an Application for a Vehicle Transaction, and proof of residency. If you have a lien on the car, you’ll need a copy of the title and the bill of sale. You’ll also need either the certificate of origin or a copy of the loan agreement.

Owners will need the VIN, date of purchase, and tax forms to prove all taxes were paid on the vehicle. If you purchase from a dealership, they’ll typically take care of the paperwork on their end.

How Much Does It Cost To Transfer A Car Title In Illinois?

Title fees in Illinois are $95, and they’re due at the time of transfer. Those coming from another state have 30 days to officially transfer their title, while those who buy or inherit a car need to register their car within 20 days.

If you need to register the car at the time of transfer, the cost is $101 for a standard passenger vehicle.

The seller can also transfer their license plates for an additional $25 charge to the buyer. If there are any title corrections to be made (e.g., an ex-spouse ceding full ownership, etc.), it costs $15 to make these changes.

How To Transfer Ownership Of A Car Without A Title In Illinois

For titles that may have been lost or stolen, requesting a duplicate title can be completed by filling out an Application for Vehicle Transaction. You can do this online or by stopping at your local Secretary of State (SOS) office.

Illinois residents will still need to pay a $95 charge for a duplicate, as well as any taxes or fees that may be outstanding on the vehicle. If you need expedited service, then you can pay an additional $30 to receive a duplicate within one business day.

If you need a lien removal from your duplicate title, you can do so by presenting an official lien contract letter stating the debt was paid in full or by submitting a court order stating the lien was paid.

How To Fill Out Transfer Of Title Form

Most owners will fill out basic information about their car before completing the title process. You’ll need a signed version of the title that relinquishes the ownership of the seller as well as the information of any lien holders (if applicable).

The odometer disclosure form must be signed by both the buyer and the seller, and you’ll also need to have the tax information available to complete the relevant tax forms. If you’re wondering how to transfer a car title to a family member, you’ll follow the same process. If it’s a gift, you’ll need to specify this under the price of the car.

You may need to contact your local SOS office for additional details about either gifting or donating a car.

How To Transfer An Illinois Car Title When Owner Is Deceased

If the vehicle was owned by the individual and is currently in probate, you’ll need a certified copy of a letter naming the legal representative who controls the estate.

The original title must be signed by that representative and presented with an Application for Vehicle Transaction. (The odometer reading must be disclosed on this application).

If the estate isn’t under probate and the value of the estate is worth less than $100,000, then the Small Estate Affidavit procedure will need to be followed. If you weren’t named in the will, you’ll need the copy of the death certificate, the original title, and a description of the car.

My Car Title Was Signed But Never Transferred. What Do I Do?

When you sign your title over to a buyer, it’s the buyer’s responsibility to make the arrangements with the appropriate SOS office. If they don’t, you could potentially be held liable for driving infractions or even crimes that the buyer commits with the vehicle.

Sellers should hold onto all of their correspondence with the buyer, including copies of the title and the bill of sale. These items will serve as proof that the seller relinquished control of the vehicle on a certain date (and therefore takes no responsibility for the buyer’s actions).

From title transfer fees to the DMV title transfer form, Illinois residents have to plan ahead to successfully transfer their title. The exact title transfer requirements will vary depending on the ownership status of the car, but the process and fees are similar across the board.

In Illinois, it’s easy to find forms online and fill them out before your appointment to make your visit to the SOS office as painless as possible.

Illinois DMV Hours And Contact Information

For more information regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of Illinois or to find the nearest IN DMV location to you, visit the official state website by clicking here.

Common Questions About Illinois Title Transfer

Are there any questions about transferring a car title that we didn’t cover?

We are constantly updating our content and welcome your feedback. Leave us a comment and let us know any other questions you might have regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of Illinois.