How to Transfer a Car Title in Ohio

Transferring a car title is essential when buying or selling a vehicle in Ohio. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or a seasoned owner looking to transfer your vehicle ownership, understanding the necessary requirements is crucial. Ohio’s Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has established specific guidelines to ensure a smooth and legal car title transfer. This article will explain what documents are required to transfer a car title in Ohio and how to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.

What is needed to transfer a car title in Ohio?

The seller must complete the assignment of ownership section on the back of the title certificate. Ensure that all information is properly spelled and that the title has no stray marks. Stray marks or damages will result in the title being deemed invalid by the BMV.

If the vehicle was last titled in Ohio, the buyer will need to bring the following items to the title office within 30 days:

• Properly assigned title from the seller to the buyer
• Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (form BMV 3774)
• Lien release or fees for lienholder record (if applicable)
• Photo ID
• Payment for sales tax on the purchase price
• Payment for title fees

If the vehicle was not last titled in Ohio, the buyer will need to bring the following items to the title office within 30 days:

• Properly assigned out-of-state title certificate
• Application(s) for Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle (form BMV 3774)
• Lien release or fees for lienholder record (if applicable)
• Photo ID
• Out-of-state VIN inspection
• Payment for title fees

What does a properly assigned title certificate mean?

On the back of every car title that is issued, you’ll find a section to transfer ownership. A properly assigned title is one that has the transfer section completed in its entirety, the sale date is recorded, and the purchase price is clearly stated. 

Sales tax

Upon the transfer of ownership, the buyer must pay sales tax on the vehicle’s purchase price. In addition to documenting the purchase price on the title, consider documenting it on a bill of sale and make a copy for both the buyer and seller to keep for their records. The sales tax amount varies by county; contact your county title office to determine the sales tax rate. 

More than one owner

If more than one owner is to be listed on the title, all parties must be present at the BMV for the transaction unless a notarized power of attorney is obtained. 

Out-of-state VIN inspection

If the vehicle was not last titled in Ohio, it will require an out-of-state VIN inspection before receiving a new title. VIN inspections can be obtained at any Ohio deputy registrar license agency or Ohio licensed motor vehicle dealership. 

Transferring your car title in Ohio doesn’t have to be a hassle. By learning the requirements for the transfer and gathering the proper documentation, you can transfer your car title in Ohio with ease. Remember, in Ohio, car titles are issued by the County Clerk of Courts Title offices. If you have questions about the transfer requirements, reach out to the title office in your county. If it’s your car, you deserve a title in your name.

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