How to Transfer a Vehicle Title in Michigan
After buying a vehicle, you will need to title, register, and plate it, according to Michigan's Department of State website. A vehicle title is a legal document that identifies the official owner of the vehicle; thus, it is important to promptly change the name listed under the title from that of the previous owner to the new owner after a sale is completed. In Michigan, the Secretary of State's offices handles title transfers; within 15 days of the transaction, you must complete the title transfer or you will be subjected to a late fee, according to the Unofficial DMV Guide.
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Things You'll Need
- Original vehicle title
- Completed application for Michigan vehicle title
- Sufficient funds for the title transfer
- Proof of vehicle ownership
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Photo identification (Michigan or out-of-state driver license/ID card)
Instructions
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Obtain the original title of the vehicle from the seller. Make sure the seller completes and signs the seller section of the document; this includes the odometer disclosure statement, which shows the actual mileage of the car at the time of the vehicle transfer.
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Confirm that there are no outstanding fees or loans associated with the vehicle, since a title transfer cannot take place otherwise.
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Verify that the odometer reading and vehicle identification number (VIN) the seller entered on the title reflect the actual values on the vehicle.
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Obtain, complete, and sign the Application for Michigan Vehicle Title. Find a link to the application form in the Resources section.
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Locate the nearest Secretary of State branch office to transfer the title into your name. You may do this by using the locator link in the Resources section.
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Bring the following documents and fees to your local branch office to apply for a title transfer: Title application; original title; vehicle identification number; proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale); a Michigan or out-of-state driver's license or ID card; sufficient funds for the $15 title transfer fee, a $5 instant fee (if you use the instant title service), and a 6 percent use tax.
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Tips & Warnings
The Michigan Department of State strongly recommends that the seller and buyer go together to a branch office to complete the title transfer. However, if this isn't possible, make sure you get the original title from the seller.
If the vehicle transfer is between you and a family member, you may be exempt from paying the 6 percent use tax.
While you're at the branch office, you may want to register the vehicle as well as obtain or transfer license plates to it.
Call the Michigan Department of State Information Center at 888-SOS-MICH or 888-767-6424 if you have any questions.
Photocopies of vehicle titles are not accepted when applying for title transfers--only original titles are permitted.
To avoid being charged the $15 late fee, complete the title transfer within 15 days of the transaction.
References
Resources
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