How to Transfer a Car Title to a Relative

A title certificate is used as the official proof of ownership for a vehicle. The Department of Motor Vehicles requires any person purchasing a vehicle or even just receiving one as a gift, to first have the title signed over to their name. Transferring ownership of vehicles is a common process, one which must take place in order to legally sell a car, give it to a friend or relative, or donate it to charity. If you plan to sell or give your vehicle to a relative, you can transfer the car title to their name easily.

• 1

  Fill out the "Transfer By Owner" section on the back of the title.

• 2

  Print your name and address as the seller, the name and address of the buyer/receiver and the date of transfer in the appropriate boxes on the back of the title certificate.

• 3

  Sign on the "Seller's Signature" line in order to complete the transaction. Once you sign on this line, the vehicle immediately belongs to the new owner.