How To Transfer a Car Title in Michigan 2026
Michigan law requires that every vehicle sale include a properly completed title transfer. Under MCL 257.233, the seller must sign over the certificate of title to the buyer at the time of delivery. The buyer is then responsible for completing the transfer through the Michigan Department of State within 15 days of the sale date. Failing to meet this deadline results in a one-time $15 late fee, and the vehicle is treated as unregistered until the transfer is finalized.
Michigan does not require notarization or a vehicle safety inspection for private-party title transfers. Transfers may be completed either in person at a Secretary of State office or online when both parties hold a valid Michigan driver's license or state ID.
Required Documents for Title Transfer in Michigan
To transfer a vehicle title in Michigan, the buyer and seller must each present a valid Michigan driver's license or state ID. The following documents are required:
- Original Certificate of Title: The seller must complete the assignment section on the back of the title, including the buyer's full name and address, the seller's name, address, and signature, the sale date, and an accurate odometer reading; all owners listed must sign
- Odometer Mileage Statement (BDVR-108): Required when the title does not include a built-in odometer section; per MCL 257.233a, the seller must certify the exact mileage displayed on the odometer at the time of sale — estimates are not permitted
- Proof of Michigan No-Fault Insurance: A valid Michigan No-Fault policy must be in effect before the vehicle can be registered; standard out-of-state liability coverage does not satisfy this requirement
- Lien Termination Statement: If the seller's title shows an outstanding loan, the lienholder must either co-sign the title or provide a separate written lien termination letter confirming the loan is paid in full
- Appointment of Agent (TR-128): Required when an owner is unable to appear in person to sign the title or transfer documents; authorizes another person to complete the transaction on their behalf
- Title and Registration Fees: Payment for all applicable fees and 6% sales tax must be presented at the time of the transfer; qualifying immediate family member transfers are exempt from sales tax
Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process in Michigan
Step 1: Complete the Title Assignment
The seller fills in the assignment section on the back of the certificate of title before handing it to the buyer. This section must include the buyer's full legal name and address, the seller's name, address, and signature, the date of sale, and the odometer reading at the time of the transaction. Every person listed as an owner on the title must sign — an incomplete assignment will prevent the transfer from being processed. If the title has no built-in odometer section, the seller must complete the separate Odometer Mileage Statement (BDVR-108).
The seller must remove the license plate from the vehicle before handing it over, as Michigan plates belong to the owner and must be retained or properly destroyed. The sole exception applies to direct transfers between immediate family members (spouses, parents, children, and in some cases, siblings), where the plate may remain on the vehicle.
Step 2: Gather All Required Documents
Before visiting a Secretary of State office, the buyer should confirm that all required documents are in order. This includes the signed original title, proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance, a valid driver's license or state ID, and a lien termination statement if applicable.
If the title assignment contains any erasures, cross-outs, or alterations, the title is considered invalid and a duplicate title must be obtained before the transfer can proceed. Buyers should also verify that the VIN printed on the title matches the VIN on the vehicle before signing anything.
Step 3: Submit the Title Transfer
The buyer must complete the transfer within 15 days of the sale. Michigan offers two submission methods:
- In person: Visit any Secretary of State branch office with all required documents. Appointments are available but are not required at most locations
- Online: When both the buyer and seller hold a valid Michigan driver's license or state ID, the transfer may be initiated through the buyer's Michigan.gov/SOS account. The buyer uploads a photo of the signed title and completes payment online. Online transfers are reviewed and approved within up to three business days
Step 4: Pay Required Fees
All fees and applicable sales tax are collected at the time of submission. Sales tax is assessed at 6% of the full purchase price or the vehicle's NADA book value, whichever is greater. No sales tax applies to transfers between qualifying immediate family members.
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title Transfer Fee | $15.00 | Required for all private-party transfers |
| Title Transfer Fee (with lien) | $16.00 | $1 additional when a lien is recorded on the title |
| Late Transfer Penalty | $15.00 | One-time fee assessed when the transfer is completed after 15 days |
| Plate Transfer Fee | $10.00–$15.00 | To move the buyer's existing plates to the newly acquired vehicle |
| Sales Tax | 6% of purchase price or NADA book value | Whichever is greater; waived for qualifying family transfers |
| Duplicate Title Fee | $15.00 | To replace a lost or damaged title |
| Registration Fee | Varies | Based on MSRP for vehicles model year 1984 and newer |
Step 5: Apply for a License Plate and Registration Tab
At the time of the title transfer, the buyer must also apply for a new Michigan license plate and registration tab, or transfer an existing plate from another vehicle they own. Once issued, the plate and tab must be affixed to the vehicle immediately. The registration tab must be renewed annually.
Step 6: Receive Your New Title
After the transfer is approved and all fees are paid, the new Michigan certificate of title is mailed to the address on file. If the vehicle is financed and the lienholder participates in Michigan's Electronic Lien and Title program, the title is held electronically until the loan is satisfied. A paper certificate of title is issued and mailed only after the lien has been fully released.
Contact Information
Michigan Department of State
430 W. Allegan St., Richard H. Austin Building - 4th Floor
Lansing, Michigan 48918
Phone: (888) 767-6424
Official Website: Michigan Department of State
