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Transferring a Car Title in Missouri

Steps and fees to transfer a vehicle title in Missouri when you buy, sell or inherit a car, and the deadline to register after moving.

Short answer: A buyer has 30 days from the date of purchase to title the vehicle and pay sales tax; a $25 penalty applies on the 31st day and increases $25 for every additional 30 days, up to $200. Missouri Department of Revenue, Titling & Registration; RSMo §301.190.5

Transferring a car titleA buyer has 30 days from the date of purchase to title the vehicle and pay sales tax; a $25 penalty applies on the 31st day and increases $25 for every additional 30 days, up to $200. The buyer submits the title properly signed over (or the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin), a signed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108), an identification number and odometer (ID/OD) inspection if the title was issued by another state, an odometer disclosure statement and notarized lien release if applicable, and pays the $8.50 title fee, $9 processing fee and sales tax.
Delinquency penalty: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=301.190
Source: Missouri Department of Revenue, Titling & Registration; RSMo §301.190.5
Registering after you moveNew residents have 30 days from becoming a Missouri resident to title their vehicle. A vehicle with an out-of-state title needs an identification number and odometer (ID/OD) inspection at an authorized Missouri inspection station (a safety inspection not more than 60 days old satisfies this).
Source: Missouri Department of Revenue, Titling & Registration (New Resident Titling & Registration Requirements)

More Missouri car insurance & vehicle laws

FAQ

How do you transfer a car title in Missouri?
A buyer has 30 days from the date of purchase to title the vehicle and pay sales tax; a $25 penalty applies on the 31st day and increases $25 for every additional 30 days, up to $200. The buyer submits the title properly signed over (or the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin), a signed Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108), an identification number and odometer (ID/OD) inspection if the title was issued by another state, an odometer disclosure statement and notarized lien release if applicable, and pays the $8.50 title fee, $9 processing fee and sales tax.
How long do you have to register your car after moving to Missouri?
New residents have 30 days from becoming a Missouri resident to title their vehicle. A vehicle with an out-of-state title needs an identification number and odometer (ID/OD) inspection at an authorized Missouri inspection station (a safety inspection not more than 60 days old satisfies this).

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.