Transferring a Car After Someone Dies in Kentucky
How to transfer a vehicle title after the owner dies in Kentucky, from the official motor vehicle agency.
Short answer: Transfers are handled by the county clerk. If the title lists owners joined by 'or,' a death certificate or court documents can transfer it and the surviving owner signs alone. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Vehicle Titling
| Transferring a car after death | Transfers are handled by the county clerk. If the title lists owners joined by 'or,' a death certificate or court documents can transfer it and the surviving owner signs alone. For an 'and' title, a surviving spouse can transfer with a death certificate that states the relationship (otherwise court documents are needed); a surviving non-spouse needs a death certificate and probate documents. A vehicle passing under a will requires the will to be probated. A vehicle titled in a trust can be transferred with the title, the trust's front page, trustee page and signature page, and the death certificate. The Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title or Registration is form TC 96-182. |
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More Kentucky estate law
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FAQ
How do I transfer a car title after someone dies in Kentucky?
Transfers are handled by the county clerk. If the title lists owners joined by 'or,' a death certificate or court documents can transfer it and the surviving owner signs alone. For an 'and' title, a surviving spouse can transfer with a death certificate that states the relationship (otherwise court documents are needed); a surviving non-spouse needs a death certificate and probate documents. A vehicle passing under a will requires the will to be probated. A vehicle titled in a trust can be transferred with the title, the trust's front page, trustee page and signature page, and the death certificate.
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.