How To Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee

You need to know how to

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
You’ll need the certificate of title. If it’s lost or damaged, 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 Notice of Discharge of Lien before the transfer.
Image highlighting Buying/Selling Car Privately by PrivateAuto

Step 2. Complete the Assignment of Title by Registered Owners Section of the Title

Odometer reading
Signature and address of the seller
Buyer signature and printed name
Date of sale
Sales price

Step 3. Complete Additional Documents

Other documents you may need include:

Copy of current registration if you’re transferring license plates
Bill of sale
Proof of passed emissions testing
Visit your county clerk’s office website to see if you need other papers.

Step 4. Apply for a New Certificate of Title

Contact your local county clerk for specific instructions on how to apply.
 Image highlighting Buying Car Privately by PrivateAuto

Step 5. Pay Fees and Taxes

The title fee is $11 + $1 transfer fee. Standard license plates are $26.50.

State sales and use tax is 7%. Local taxes range from 1.5% to 2.75%.

Transfers may be tax-exempted:

Between spouses and children
To your or your spouse’s lineal relatives
Gifts and donations

Conclusion

To transfer a certificate of title in Tennessee, 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.

Search Cars For Sale on PrivateAuto!

Sell Your Car on PrivateAuto!