Last Updated 29th of May, 2010

Do I need to notify the NY DMV if I donate car? New York

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Decide the Fate of Your New York License Plates

Car donations are no different than selling used cars when it comes to handling the titles and license plates and notifying the NY DMV about it all.

As the "seller" in a donate car transaction, you're responsible for notifying the DMV on how you plan to use the license plates that once belonged to the used car. You have two choices: transfer the license plates or surrender to the DMV.  

Transfer License Plates


You are allowed to transfer the license plates to another car as long as it is owned by you. If you opt for transferring, you'll need to file proper car registration documents with the DMV.

Surrender License Plates


If you don't plan on transferring the license plates you must surrender them to the DMV. You can do this in person or by mail. This will cue the DMV to cancel your vehicle registration.

If you choose this option, surrender the plates before canceling the car's insurance. If you do this in reverse the DMV may interpret it as a violation of the state's mandatory car insurance laws and suspend your drivers license. 

New York Title Transfer Process for Car Donations

When you donate a car and transfer car ownership to the charity of your choice you'll need to:

  1. Complete the mileage and damage report on the back of the car title.
  2. Sign and date the car title.
  3. Complete a Statement of Transaction (Form DTF-802). You can download this form from the NY DMV website.
  4. Remove the license plates before completing the vehicle donation. 
After transferring the title, your charity of choice will handle the rest of the car donation. You do not have to contact the DMV about the change of ownership. You will only need to contact the DMV regarding the status of your license plates.

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