While the Internet has made many tasks more convenient, title transfers must still be completed the old fashioned way. Although a few states have Web sites that allow you to download the forms necessary to complete a title transfer, you can not actually complete the car title transfer without making a trip to your local DMV office.

A title transfer is needed:

• When you are buying or selling a car
• When you have paid off a loan
• When you inherit a vehicle
• When you transfer a vehicle to a member of your family
• When you donate a vehicle to a charitable organization
• When you need to make name corrections after marriage or a divorce

Title transfer processes vary slightly by state, but you’ll generally need to provide:

• A title transfer application
• The completed car title
• A Bill of Sale showing the purchase price
• An odometer reading
• Proof of insurance
• Photo identification
• An emissions inspection certificate
• Payment for pay any sales or luxury taxes applicable to your purchase

No appointment is needed for a title transfer, but it’s generally a good idea to call ahead to confirm that the office will be open during the hours you wish to visit. In smaller communities, the DMV office is often staffed on a part-time basis only.

In some states, busy drivers can hire a private company to assist with the title transfer process. If you purchased your car from a dealer, however, you’re in luck. Most dealers will complete all of the necessary title transfer paperwork on your behalf. This will save you from making a trip to the DMV on your own. And, since the dealer likely handles hundreds of title transfers each month, you can be assured that everything is taken care of when you hit the road.