Montana DMV Title Transfer Guide

How To Transfer A Vehicle Title In Montana

Procedures for car title transfers in Montana are contingent on the parties involved in the transfer and security interests.

Fortunately, standardized forms and guidelines are available through the Motor Vehicle Division of the Montana Department of Justice.

Below are some common questions associated with transfers, along with the process to follow.

To start the transfer process, the seller or current holder of title must assign title over to the buyer, with a notarized signature. The buyer and seller also need to create a valid bill of sale that states the sales price and details of the transaction.

The buyer then completes a title application and submits the signed documents to the Vehicle Services Bureau, as support for the transfer of title.

Applicable title and registration fees are due at the time the application is submitted by the buyer. Motor vehicles cannot be titled in Montana without also being registered.

What Do You Need To Transfer A Car Title?

• Bill of Sale – Form MV24.
• Proof of Security Interest or Lien (Lien Release Form) – Form MV37A.
• Payment for Required Titling Fee.
• Application for Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle – Form MV1.

Requesting A Duplicate Title In Montana

If you have lost your title or it has been destroyed, you can request a replacement title from the Vehicle Services Bureau. The process involves filling out the Application for Certificate of Title, also known as Form MV7.

You can fill this form out electronically, print it and mail it to the Bureau along with the application fee of $10.30. This fee is applicable to each vehicle or item that can be titled.

If you’re adding a new security interest to your replacement title, the fee is $18.54, and you must also fill out Form MV81B.

How To Transfer A Car Title To A Family Member

When transferring a car title as a gift to a family member, you follow the standard title transfer process, as if you’re selling the vehicle. However, the sales price on the bill of sale should be listed as zero.

Federal gift taxes may apply in these situations, which is something you’ll have to research and calculate separately. State and federal rules may differ in these instances, making it important to contact the appropriate agencies, such as the IRS, before finalizing the transaction.

How Much Is A Title Transfer In Montana?

The price of a title transfer is based on the type of vehicle or item that is the subject of the transfer. For light vehicles, trucks and busses weighing less than one ton, the application fee is $12.

All other transfers are charged $10. Rates are subject to change, making it important to determine how much does it cost to transfer a car title, with the Vehicle Service Bureau when you start the process.

How To Transfer Ownership Of A Car Without A Title

In these situations, you can file an application for a replacement title with the Montana Vehicle Services Bureau. This is an easy and effective way to get the documentation needed to complete the normal transfer process.

Some states do not require that a title be involved for the transfer of ownership.

However, having a title in place makes the process safe and secure for all parties and security interests in the property.

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

You need to contact the Vehicle Services Bureau and follow up on the status of your application. If specific documents were not signed or notarized, your application may be rejected and sent back for corrections.

The application forms associated with title transfers come with instructions on how to fill out transfer of title form. Be sure to review these instructions and work with the state clerks to finalize your application.

How To Transfer A Car Title When Owner Is Deceased

The transfer process in these situations is contingent on whether or not the estate has an executor. If the title was only in the deceased person’s name, then the executor of the estate will handle the title transfer process. A valid death certificate, the old title and title application are needed to complete the process.

If the title had more than one name on it, then the surviving party is the person that will handle the transfer process.

Title transfer requirements vary by state, making it critical to know how the process works in Montana.

The Montana DMV title transfer form, and the rules associated transfers, may seem complicated but there is no need to worry. Title transfer fees are affordable and applications are available online.

Montana DMV Hours And Contact Information

For specific questions regarding how to transfer a car title in the state of Montana, for DMV hours, or to find the MT DMV location nearest to you, visit the official Montana Motor Vehicle Division website by clicking here.

Common Questions About Montana 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 Montana.