In Oklahoma, ownership of a car, truck or motorcycle is shown with a title. The current owner’s name must be on the title. However, when that vehicle is sold, gifted or changes ownership in some other way, the title needs to be changed so that the new owner’s name is on it. This is called a title transfer, and there are some specific steps that need to be taken to transfer a car title in Oklahoma that will vary depending on the situation and your role in the process.
If you’re buying
For buyers going through a private seller, the process to transfer a car title in Oklahoma is relatively simple, although there are some specific forms that need to be completed, as well as a number of steps.
Make sure to get the title from the seller, and that is has been completely and accurately filled out. The seller’s signature must be notarized. The odometer reading should be included on the title, or the seller may choose to include an Odometer Disclosure Statement.
Make sure you get the car’s registration card (must be current).
Make sure to complete the Application for Oklahoma Certificate of Title for a Vehicle.
Get insurance on the car and provide proof.
Get a lien release from the seller.
Make sure that the price of the car is listed on the title or a bill of sale. Alternatively, you can use the Declaration of Vehicle Purchase Price form.
Bring this information along with the $17 for the transfer fee to the county tax office.
Common mistakes
- Not getting a lien release
- Not ensuring the seller’s signature is notarized
If you’re selling
For private sellers, there are other steps that need to be taken to ensure that the buyer can transfer the car’s title. You’ll need to:
Complete the title completely, and make sure to have your signature notarized.
Provide the buyer with the car’s current registration.
Give the buyer a lien release.
Make sure that the odometer reading appears on the title, or that you use the Declaration Disclosure Statement.
Make sure the purchase price of the car is included on the title, the bill of sale, or the Declaration of Vehicle Purchase Price.
Notify the MVD that you’ve sold the vehicle. Use the Notice of Transfer of Ownership of a Vehicle (you’ll need to pay $10).
If you’re gifting or inheriting
The process for gifting a car is the same as above. However, if you’re giving a car to a qualifying family member (spouse, parents, children), then you’ll need to complete a Family Affidavit to ensure that they don’t have to pay sales tax.
The inheritance process is different, and changes depending on the means of inheritance.
- You cannot transfer the title to a car left to you in a will before the will is probated.
- You will need the letters of testamentary.
- You will need a copy of the death certificate in all instances.
- If there was no will and you are the only claimant, you will need to visit the MVD to have them complete the process for you.
For more information about how to transfer a car title in Oklahoma, visit the state’s MVD website.
