A car title transfer in Indiana is a procedure that both vehicle sellers and purchasers must perform when transferring the ownership rights over a motor vehicle between themselves. Title transfers for cars may be completed through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (IN BMV). Motorists who are wondering “How do you transfer a title on a car in IN?” are required to first learn the procedure itself.

Moreover, the process consists of several steps that must be taken, such as preparing a list of documents needed for a successful title transfer. In addition, motorists must also satisfy certain title transfer requirements when transferring the ownership rights over a motor vehicle. To learn more information about how to fill out a transfer of title in Indiana, continue reading the following sections.

What is a car title transfer in Indiana?

Prior to performing an Indiana car title transfer procedure, motorists need to know what is a vehicle title and why it must be transferred when selling or purchasing a motor vehicle. A certificate of title is a legal document issued by the IN BMV and its purpose is to serve as a proof of ownership for a specific motor vehicle.

Residents who want to perform a process of vehicle title transfer need to submit this document to the BMV in order to prove that the ownership rights have been transferred in their name.

Title transfers for cars must be performed in order to legally transfer motor vehicles between two participating entities. For more information on how to fill out a transfer of title in Indiana, motorists are encouraged to contact the IN BMV and discover the reasons why they need to perform a title transfer when selling or purchasing a motor vehicle.

When is a vehicle title transfer required in Indiana?

An Indiana vehicle title transfer is a procedure that must be performed by motorists who are transferring the ownership rights over a motor vehicle from one legal entity to another.

Moreover, an auto title transfer process may be required in various situations, depending on the manner an individual has obtained a motor vehicle. For instance, performing a car title transfer procedure is an action that motorists need to perform when selling or purchasing a motor vehicle.

In addition, a transfer of car title may be also required when a vehicle is received as a gift or obtained as a result of the death of another person. In order to perform successful title transfers for cars in Indiana, motorists need to prepare a certain list of documents and satisfy a set of mandatory car title transfer requirements.

Information and Documents Necessary to Transfer a Title in Indiana

In order to perform a car title transfer in Indiana, motorists need to prepare certain documentation and important information that may be needed for the procedure. A transfer of car title may require individuals to provide the following documents:

  • Manufacturer’s certificate of origin or certificate of title
  • Application for Certificate of Title for a Vehicle
  • An Odometer Disclosure Statement or a completed odometer statement on the car title
  • Physical Inspection of a Vehicle or Watercraft, if needed
  • Proof of address
  • Proof of Social Security number (SSN) or federal identification number (FIN)
  • Payment for the applicable title transfer fees and sales tax of seven percent

The title transfer requirements and documentation may vary based on the driver’s specific situation. Therefore, motorists are encouraged to contact the IN BMV before beginning the transfer procedure and discover more information about how to complete the process. Keep in mind that a bill of sale may be necessary to complete the title transfer.

Note: You cannot perform a title transfer online in Indiana and must complete the process in person.

Steps for Performing a Transfer of Title in Indiana

Motorists may perform an Indiana car title transfer procedure through a nearby IN BMV branch. To complete a vehicle title transfer procedure successfully, drivers need to follow certain steps.

Motorists who are wondering how to complete the procedure of a title transfer need to know that they will first be required to collect the mandatory documentation outlined in the previous section. Then, this paperwork must be submitted to the BMV along with payment for the applicable fees and taxes.

Note: Electronic title transfers are not available at this time in Indiana.

Getting a New Car Title Versus Title Transfers in Indiana

Getting a new car title in Indiana is a mandatory action that drivers must perform on all types of vehicles, except those that are exempt under state law. However, prior to applying for a new car title, vehicle owners need to learn the difference between getting a new vehicle title and transferring a car title between two legal entities.

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) issues a new title for car and for other motor vehicles that are not exempt from titling. A new title is required when motorists purchase a new motor vehicle or when they have recently moved to Indiana from another state.

New residents of Indiana are required to order new car title and complete the appropriate form with an out-of-state title within 60 days of their move to Indiana.

Unlike the procedure for obtaining a DMV new title in Indiana, the title transfer mandates motorists to satisfy other requirements. A title transfer is a process of transferring the ownership rights of a motor vehicle from one person to another. A transfer of title may be required when purchasing or selling an already titled motor vehicle or when getting a car as a gift, inheritance or donation.

Car Title Transfer Fees in Indiana

The ultimate step of the Indiana auto title transfer procedure requires drivers to pay the applicable fees for a complete title transfer. Indiana residents are required to pay the $15 title transfer fee in order to finalize the process.

In addition, motorists who are transferring a car title to another legal entity may be required to pay a sales tax of seven percent upon purchase of the motor vehicle.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 10 2020.