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.
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:
- Proof of identification and proof of residency
- Copy of current registration if you’re transferring license plates
- Bill of sale
- Proof of passed emissions testing
- Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfer of Motor Vehicles and Boats (for gifts and non-sales transfers)
- Odometer Disclosure Statement
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.
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.
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