How To Transfer a Car Title in Georgia

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Chris Cho

Chris Cho

Chris is Head of Content for FindTheBestCarPrice and is based out of Philadelphia, PA. As a seasoned automotive industry analyst and car enthusiast, he ensures the highest level of quality across all our content and curates our picks for the best deals each month.
Chris studied information systems and marketing at Drexel University and writes about a wide range of topics ranging from car buying tips to troubleshooting common mechanical issues.

When he’s not thinking about cars, he likes to stay in with his dog and make an “attempt” to finish a crossword puzzle (he’s not quite at the Saturday/Sunday level…yet). As a former cheesemonger, Chris still has a “sharp” passion for all things cheese, and his fridge is always loaded with it!

Chris also has a passion for things that go fast, and drones are no exception. He spends some of his time writing for Dronesourced.

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Proof of ownership must be provided whenever you buy or sell a vehicle.  Fortunately, the title transfer process in Georgia is straightforward.

In Georgia, vehicle buyers can complete the title transfer process online with the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) or at a County Tag office.

Georgia law mandates completing the title transfer process within 30 days of the change of ownership or residency. Otherwise, a penalty fee will be charged.

Read on to learn how to transfer a car title in Georgia.

Key Takeaways

• The state of Georgia allows online title transfers via the DRIVES portal.
• The transfer fee is $18.
• You must transfer the title within 30 days of buying the car.
• Title transfers require the completed bill of sale, signed title, completed application form, emissions test, proof of ID,and proof of insurance.

Documents Needed for Car Title Transfer in Georgia

Provide the following paperwork if the car is registered in Georgia:

• A valid Georgia Driver's License or ID card.
• Evidence of ownership.
• The signed and completed original title
• The signed odometer disclosure
• If the title is unavailable, an MSO (Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin).
• Form MV-1 Title/Tag Application can be printed at home or at the County Tag Office and signed. Make sure the lien release or security interest is NOT listed.
• Proof of insurance displaying liability coverage or submitted directly by the insurance provider to the Department's database.
• An Emission Inspection Certificate, if applicable.
• The lienholder's name and address if the automobile is financed.
• Payment of all fees and taxes due.

• Form T-22B Certification of Inspection. You will provide the following information:
  • License plate number.
  • VIN.
  • Vehicle make.
  • Vehicle Model.

Please note: Cars from 1985 or earlier do not require a title but a Bill of Sale.

Documents for Transferring an Out-of-State Title

When transferring the title from another state, you will also need the following:

• The original out-of-state title
• replacement title
• or a duplicate title

Registration certification from the non-title state/county must be assigned to you using your full name.

How To Transfer Car Title in Georgia

To obtain a title and license plate for your vehicle, you must follow these steps at your County Tag Office:

1. Get the filled-out and signed original title
2. Complete and sign MV-1 Title/Tag Application, which can be initiated online beforehand to save time.
3. The lienholder or security interest holder's name and address must be entered in the relevant fields if your vehicle is financed.
4. Acquire an Emission Inspection Certificate
5. Ensure you have proof of Georgia liability insurance
6. Pay all fees and taxes, including a $20 license plate fee, an $18 title fee, and a Title Ad Valorem Tax. Any outstanding penalties must also be settled.

How To Transfer Car Ownership Without a Title in Georgia

It is illegal to transfer car ownership in Georgia without a title. In the event of a lost, damaged, or stolen vehicle title in Georgia, it is mandatory to request a duplicate title using the MV-1 form.

How to Request a Replacement Title

To successfully obtain a duplicate title, adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Complete the Title/Tag Application (Form MV-1) by excluding any lien release or security interest information.
2. If your lien has been satisfied, submit a lien release form (Form T-4) for each lien holder. Please note that if you neglected to apply for a clear vehicle title after satisfying the lien, the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) will still have the lien recorded on your vehicle title.
3. Provide proof of identification, which can be demonstrated through a valid Georgia driver's license or photo ID card.
4. Surrender the mutilated vehicle title, if applicable.
5. Ensure the Georgia replacement title fee is paid, which amounts to $8.

To prevent potential delays or penalties, have all the requisite documentation and payment ready.

How To Transfer Car Title in Georgia If You Have an Out-of-State Title

When transitioning your residency from one state to Georgia, follow the steps outlined below to transfer the title:

1. Ensure your vehicle undergoes emissions testing if mandated.
2. Visit your local Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) office.
3. Submit the requisite out-of-state documents, including the vehicle title and registration.
4. Provide evidence of a valid Georgia auto insurance policy, VIN verification, and the vehicle's odometer reading.
5. Fulfill the applicable fees for the vehicle title transfer and any associated costs.

By adhering to these steps, you can effectively facilitate the transfer of your out-of-state vehicle title and comply with Georgia's requirements.

How To Transfer Car Title in Georgia If the Owner Is Dead

After the demise of a vehicle owner, you must transfer the vehicle's title if you, as a beneficiary, intend to retain, gift, or sell the vehicle.

As a beneficiary, joint owner, or surviving spouse, you possess the legal duty and authority to effectuate the deceased individual's vehicle title transfer.

The course of action for transferring the vehicle title is contingent upon whether the title was held solely by the deceased as an individual or in joint ownership.

If the vehicle title solely bears the deceased's name, it becomes evaluated if the estate is undergoing probate.

Throughout the probate proceedings, the distribution of the deceased individual's property is executed per their last will.

How To Transfer Car Title in Georgia After a Lease Buyout

In Georgia, it is mandatory to transfer the title of a vehicle following a lease buyout. To ensure a smooth transfer process, you must gather the following documents:

1. A bill of sale issued by the leasing company should include the sales tax amount collected for the buyout option.
2. An accurately completed odometer statement from the leasing company.
3. Fill out the Application for Registration and Title (Form MV-1).
4. Provide proof of a valid GA auto insurance policy.
5. Present valid identification documents.

If you possess a letter of authorization from the leasing company, it enables the transfer of registration equity and license plates to you from the leasing company.

How Much Does It Cost to Transfer a Title in Georgia

The original title application fee costs $18. Here's a breakdown of all potential fees:

• Title transfer fee: $18
• Title Replacement Fee: $8
• License Plate Registration: $20
• Title Ad Volrem Tax: 6.6%
• Register an Out-of-State Car Purchase in Georgia: 4% sales tax

Read this article to learn more about Georgia's car sales tax and fees. 

Conclusion

Transferring a car title in Georgia costs $18 and requires a bill of sale, form MV-1 Title/Tag Application, proof of insurance, emissions inspection certificate, and proof of ID. Fortunately, you can complete the process online. So, be sure to do so within 30 days of buying a new car.

Check out our guides to learn about the title transfer process in all states!