How to Perform a Title Transfer in Arizona
Completing the Arizona car title transfer procedure is a mandatory step when the vehicle changes ownership from one legal entity to another. Vehicle owners can complete the title transfers for cars through a local office of the state’s Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) or through an authorized third party provider.
Note that the AZ title transfer requirements may vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the change of ownership. To learn about what forms are necessary and when to submit your title transfer request, review the sections outlined below.
What is a car title transfer in Arizona?
Car owners are encouraged to learn more about the importance of a vehicle title and why they must transfer this certificate when buying or selling a vehicle. Therefore, before learning how to fill out your transfer of title documents, it is important to note that a title certificate is an official form that establishes ownership of a given motor vehicle.
Meeting the title transfer requirements in AZ is an important step since the state MVD must confirm that the vehicle ownership is in the name of the entity that is applying for car registration.
While the buyer is required to complete the title transfer for purposes of completing the registration procedure, the seller must sign over the title in order to ensure his or her protection from liability.
Keep in mind that completing a title transfer online is not an option for Arizona residents, and this process must be completed in person.
When is a vehicle title transfer required in Arizona?
Completing the Arizona vehicle title transfer is a requirement that must be met in situations when the possession of the vehicle is transferred from one legal owner to another, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the transfer of ownership.
For instance, finalizing the transfer of vehicle title after a private sale is the most common situation where car owners are required to complete the transfer procedure.
The same AZ car title transfer process, however, must also be completed in the event of donating or gifting a vehicle. Car owners who have inherited their motor vehicle will be required to follow similar steps as those that apply when completing the title transfer for one of the instances mentioned above.
Information and Documents Necessary to Transfer a Title in Arizona
When applying for an auto title transfer in Arizona, car owners will be required to meet certain title transfer requirements, such as submitting certain documents and providing several types of information.
However, the title transfer requirements may vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances. For instance, the standard documentation requirements for the car title transfer process include the following:
- A filled out Title and Registration Application
- A properly signed over and notarized title certificate
- A lien release form (if applicable)
- A written lien permission form (if the lien has not been paid off)
- Power of attorney or personal representative papers (if applicable)
Note: You will be required to bring a vehicle bill of sale form, too, as proof of purchase or sale.
To avoid delayed or rejected AZ vehicle title transfer applications, auto owners must ensure that the submitted documentation is properly completed with accurate information. Also, the signed-over title must contain the signatures of all owners on the title and a stamp and official signature of a notary public.
Since requests for a transfer of car title are processed in person, applicants may even be asked to present an official form of identification, such as a valid Arizona driving license or an ID card.
Steps for Performing a Transfer of Title in Arizona
If you are wondering how to transfer a title on a car in Arizona, note that you will be required to submit the necessary items through a nearby MVD office or a third party provider location. The division does not currently allow vehicle owners to complete the transfer process online.
To finalize the AZ auto title transfer, you will be required to submit the documents outlined above along with the applicable fee payments within 15 days of the transfer of ownership. Failure to initiate the AZ car title transfer within this time period may lead to certain penalty fees.
Note that, when completing the title transfer for cars with the 96-0236 form, you will also successfully complete the vehicle registration procedure in a single transaction. After the state MVD processes your request for a transfer of your car title in AZ, you will be issued your new vehicle documents showing you as the new owner.
Note: Keep in mind that electronic title transfers are not an option in Arizona. These must be completed in person.
Getting a New Car Title Versus Title Transfers in Arizona
The process of getting a new car title in Arizona differs from a standard title transfer procedure. For example, a new title for a car, truck, motorcycle or other types of vehicles will be issued if and when the vehicle in question has not been previously titled. The following list outlines the standard situations when a new car title is required:
- You have purchased a brand-new motor vehicle from a state dealership. In certain cases, the dealer may apply for vehicle documents on your behalf.
- You have moved to AZ with a motor vehicle titled by another state.
On the other hand, when you apply for a title after purchasing a vehicle from a private owner, you will have to complete additional steps. For instance, unlike the process to order new car title, you will also have to transfer the vehicle ownership with the assistance of its original owner.
Then, you can submit the reassigned title with the remaining application items to get a new title in your name.
Car Title Transfer Fees in Arizona
The last step when completing the title transfers for cars in Arizona is arranging payment for the applicable titling and registration fees. Applicants completing the transfer of a car title in AZ will also be required to pay the standard $4 titling fee, an $8 registration fee and the state vehicle license tax, which is based on the vehicle’s estimated value.
Car Title Transfer Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Title from AZDOT.gov