A certificate of title issued by the state of Vermont is a document that proves legal ownership of a vehicle. A title must be obtained when an individual purchases a new vehicle. A title transfer must also be completed when a used vehicle is sold or gifted, or when a vehicle changes hands as a result of the death of the vehicle's owner. Vermont titles only vehicles that are 15 years old or newer.

OBTAINING A TITLE FOR A NEW VEHICLE:

For new vehicles, the licensed dealer that sold the vehicle typically will accept and submit the required titling information and fees on behalf of the buyer. However, buyers wishing to handle the titling independently can do so. Those interested in applying for a new title without the dealer's assistance should refer to the Titling Motor Vehicles in Vermont page, Registration/Tax/Title Application Instructions, and the FAQ's About Vehicle Titles in Vermont on the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website.

TRANSFERRING A TITLE ON A USED VEHICLE:

Sale/Purchase or Gift of a Used Vehicle

When you purchase a used vehicle, or obtain one as a gift, the title must be legally transferred into your name. This is done by obtaining the following documents, and submitting them along with the appropriate fees to your local here. An appointment can be made to save time.

1. The current title, with the assignment completed by the seller or donor (signing the title over to you). The title must include the federal odometer disclosure, if the vehicle is less than ten years old.
2. Bills of sale showing complete chain of ownership and releasing all liens.
3. A completed Vermont Registration Tax and Title Application
4. Odometer Disclosure, if the title does not include this information and the vehicle is less than ten years old.
5. If vehicle is registered out of state, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verification and proof of tax paid.

Fees

Along with the appropriate transfer of title documents above, you will need to submit the following fees:

1. $28 title fee
2. 6% purchase and use tax on the purchase price of the vehicle or NADA trade-in value.

Contact DMV Office for more information. Checks should be made payable to DMV or Department of Motor Vehicles.

Transfer of Title Following Death of Vehicle Owner

In the event of the death of the vehicle owner, the title is often transferred to the heirs or someone else identified in the owner's will. The procedures and fees for this type of transfer are similar to those outlined above. In addition, it is important to determine how the estate of the deceased has been settled by the heir(s). In some cases, the heirs may need to provide copies of court orders, the death certificate and the will (or a notarized statement of its contents), if there is one. For more information on title transfers following the death of a vehicle owner, refer to the Vermont DMV website or contact the DMV Office.

Submission

Appropriate title transfer documents and fees should be submitted to the DMV Office or mailed to:

Department of Motor Vehicles,
120 State Street,
Montpelier, VT 05603-0001.    

Additional Information

• Contact the local DMV office if you wish to add, remove, or change a name on a vehicle title for reason other than those discussed above.
• If there is an existing lien on the vehicle, there will be additional requirements for transferring the title. Contact the local DMV Office for more information.
• A valid title provides proof of ownership of the vehicle. However, remember that a title transfer does not entitle the new owner(s) to legally operate the vehicle. For this, refer to the appropriate registration information.