How to Transfer a Car Title in Ohio

A certificate of title is a legal document that establishes ownership of a car. If you are selling or buying a used car in Ohio, transferring the title is one of the most crucial steps in the entire process.
Private car sales need a safe, legal title transfer process. This Ohio title transfer guide gives you the steps you need to know to sign over a car title in OH.
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There are a lot of reasons you'll need to know how to transfer a car title in Ohio. Some of them include:

Buy or sell a used car
Add or remove owners
Give a vehicle as a gift
Donate a car
Transfer ownership in a divorce settlement
Inherit an automobile
Move to Ohio from another state

If the title is lost or damaged, you'll need to request a duplicate title.

Step 1. Check for a Clear Title

If there’s a lien on the title, you’ll need to get a lien discharge before the transfer.

Step 2. Complete the Assignment of Ownership Section of the Title

You'll need to fill out:

Date of the transfer
Price of the vehicle
Name and address of the buyer

The seller will need to complete the odometer disclosure in front of a deputy clerk or notary public.

Step 3. Complete Additional Documents

Other documents you may need include:

Proof of ID
Proof of vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection
Surviving Spouse Affidavit and death certificate, if applicable

Step 4. Apply for a New Certificate of Title

Step 5. Pay Fees and Sales Tax

The title fee is $15. There’s a $5 late fee if you apply more than 30 days after buying the car.

Sales tax varies by county.

Conclusion

To transfer a certificate of title in Ohio, you need to Complete both the title assignment on the back of the certificate and apply for a new title.

You may need other forms, depending on your circumstances.

When you buy or sell a used car with PrivateAuto, you get electronic state-specific documents you can sign straight from the platform.

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