Transferring a Car Title in Michigan
Steps and fees to transfer a vehicle title in Michigan when you buy, sell or inherit a car, and the deadline to register after moving.
Short answer: The buyer has 15 days after the sale to transfer the title; a $15 late fee applies after that. The title must be filled out and signed by the buyer and seller, with an accurate odometer reading. Michigan Secretary of State, Title transfer and vehicle registration
| Transferring a car title | The buyer has 15 days after the sale to transfer the title; a $15 late fee applies after that. The title must be filled out and signed by the buyer and seller, with an accurate odometer reading. The transfer can be done online (if eligible) or at a Secretary of State office. Fees include a $15 title transfer fee, a $10 to $15 plate transfer fee (or registration fee for a new plate), and 6% sales tax. Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance is required to register the vehicle. |
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| Registering after you move | Once you establish Michigan residency, you need to get a Michigan driver's license (converting your out-of-state license at a Secretary of State office with proof of legal presence, Social Security number, identity and two proofs of Michigan residency) and get a Michigan license plate for your vehicle. To title and register, bring your previous state registration (if possible, expired less than 90 days), the original title, proof of Michigan no-fault insurance, your license or ID, and payment for fees. The page reviewed did not state a specific number of days, and did not mention a vehicle inspection requirement. |
More Michigan car insurance & vehicle laws
- Minimum Car Insurance in Michigan
- Driving Without Insurance in Michigan
- SR-22 Insurance in Michigan
- When a Car Is a Total Loss in Michigan
- All Michigan car insurance & vehicle laws rules
FAQ
How do you transfer a car title in Michigan?
The buyer has 15 days after the sale to transfer the title; a $15 late fee applies after that. The title must be filled out and signed by the buyer and seller, with an accurate odometer reading. The transfer can be done online (if eligible) or at a Secretary of State office. Fees include a $15 title transfer fee, a $10 to $15 plate transfer fee (or registration fee for a new plate), and 6% sales tax. Proof of Michigan no-fault insurance is required to register the vehicle.
How long do you have to register your car after moving to Michigan?
Once you establish Michigan residency, you need to get a Michigan driver's license (converting your out-of-state license at a Secretary of State office with proof of legal presence, Social Security number, identity and two proofs of Michigan residency) and get a Michigan license plate for your vehicle. To title and register, bring your previous state registration (if possible, expired less than 90 days), the original title, proof of Michigan no-fault insurance, your license or ID, and payment for fees.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.