Last Updated 28th of July, 2010

What are the NY title transfer requirements for buying used cars? New York

Enter your Zip Code below to get a Free Quote. We suggest getting quotes from multiple companies to ensure you get the best rate. There is no obligation to purchase.

  • You could save 15% or more
  • 24 hour claims service
  • Get a FREE instant quote, today!

Title Transfer Requirements in New York

The New York (NY) Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) processes each title transfer in the state. Titles are transferred in NY whether or not a lien is attached to the car.

Steps for Car Seller to Transfer Title


Only the owner (seller) of one or more used cars can transfer a title. To transfer the car title to the new owner, the seller should:

  1. Write the name of the new owner (buyer of the used car) in the transfer section of the bill of sale (include your name and the make, model, color, and year of the used car on the bill of sale).
  2. Sign and date the bill of sale stating that you are transferring ownership of the vehicle to the buyer.
  3. Ask the person who responded to your “buy car” ad to sign and date the bill of sale.
  4. Keep a copy of the bill of sale for your personal records as the seller.

Car Title Transfer and Vehicle History Report


The buyer of the used car should apply for a title certificate with the NY DMV. To do this he or she must complete the “Application for Title” (Form MV-82TON).  Data the buyer provides on the title application helps the DMV to extend a vehicle history report on the used car.

This data includes:

  • The buyer’s first and last names.
  • Street address (including city, state, and zip code).
  • Drivers license number.
  • Vehicle identification number (helps DMV to obtain the vehicle history).
  • Year, make, and color of the motor vehicle.
  • Odometer reading.
  • Lienholder name and contact information (if the vehicle is financed).
Buyers of used cars must provide proof of identify (i.e. copy of birth certificate) to the NY DMV. They are required to pay a $50 title certificate fee. They should mail the completed title application, a copy of the bill of sale, and the title certificate fee to:

Title Bureau
Department of Motor Vehicles
6 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY  12228

Related Articles

Visitor Comments

No visitor comments posted. Post a comment

Post Comment for "What are the NY title transfer requirements for buying used cars?"

To post a comment for this article, simply complete the form below. Fields marked with an asterisk are required.

User Opinions

No users have voted.

How would you rate this answer?



Thank you for rating this answer.

Continue
DMVAnswers.com (the Site) is a privately owned, for-profit Web site owned by OnlineGURU, Inc. The Site specifically disclaims any and all connection with any state bureau, division, or Department of Motor Vehicles, or any state or federal government agency. DMVAnswers.com does its best to get the correct information but does not claim responsibility for the accuracy of the information displayed herein. It is not complete or certified information. The information provided on DMVAnswers.com is not legal advice, DMVAnswers.com is not a lawyer referral service, and no attorney-client or confidential relationship is or should be formed by use of the site. Additionally, the Site expressly disclaims any and all liability for third party links or resources on the Site and any claims of negligence arising from same. For official information, please consult your state motor vehicle department.