/ / Car title transfer fees by state
Car title transfer fees by state
Transferring a car title after a sale, gift or move usually costs a small flat fee — most states charge a base of around $9 — but the total depends on state title fees, county add-ons and lien handling. Florida is at the higher end at $75.25–$85.25, while Utah charges $6.00 (verified 2026-09-21).
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| Fee / Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical base fee | Most states charge around $9 as the base title transfer fee, plus county and lien fees where applicable |
| Florida | Title transfer totals $75.25–$85.25 depending on lien and county components |
| Utah | New title $6.00; duplicate title $6.00; title correction (incl. name change and lien release) $6.00 |
| Varies by state | Title transfer fees vary significantly by state — always confirm the exact schedule with your state DMV or county tax office before you buy or sell |
Sources: state DMV/official agency pages and verified aggregators (each row carries its source and verification date 2026-09-21). This is an unofficial reference site — not affiliated with any DMV or state agency. Fee schedules change; confirm current amounts with your state DMV before paying.
How to use this page: title transfer fees are one of the smallest items in a vehicle purchase, but they are easy to miss in a private sale. Check the fee schedule in the state where the vehicle will be registered, confirm whether a notary or VIN inspection is required, and remember that sales tax is a separate, much larger line item.
FAQ
Common questions
Who pays the title transfer fee when buying a used car?
It varies. In many states the buyer pays the title fee as part of the total at the DMV/county office; in private sales the parties often negotiate who covers it. Confirm with your local office before the sale.
Is the title transfer fee the same as sales tax?
No. The title transfer fee is an administrative charge for changing ownership records. Vehicle sales tax (e.g. 6% in Florida plus up to 1.5% county surtax) is separate and usually larger.
Do I pay title transfer fees when moving from another state?
Yes — when you register an out-of-state vehicle you will typically pay a new-title fee in your new state. Fees follow the new state's schedule, and a VIN inspection is often required.
Can I transfer a title without a notary?
Some states require a notarized title for private sales, others do not. Check your state's specific requirements — this varies more than the fee itself.
Do title transfer fees apply to gifted or inherited cars?
Usually yes — a title transfer is needed whenever ownership changes, including gifts and inheritance, though some states discount family transfers. Check your state's schedule for family-exempt amounts.
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