Transferring a Car After Someone Dies in Rhode Island
How to transfer a vehicle title after the owner dies in Rhode Island, from the official motor vehicle agency.
Short answer: Rhode Island DMV procedures: (1) Surviving spouse: bring the original death certificate, the current registration in the deceased's name, the title (always required for model year 2001 and newer), an Application for Registration (TR-1) and a sales or use tax exemption certificate; Rhode Island DMV, Transfer at Death; Surviving Spouse
| Transferring a car after death | Rhode Island DMV procedures: (1) Surviving spouse: bring the original death certificate, the current registration in the deceased's name, the title (always required for model year 2001 and newer), an Application for Registration (TR-1) and a sales or use tax exemption certificate; there is no cost for a spouse. If there is a lien, the original title and a permission letter from the lender are also required. (2) Executor or administrator appointed: the original Notice of Appointment from the probate court is the only acceptable document, and the executor or administrator signs the title as seller. (3) No surviving spouse and no executor: next of kin or adult children complete the Sole Heir Affidavit (which replaces the assignment on the back of the title) and bring the original death certificate. Out-of-state vehicles need a VIN inspection by local police. Surviving spouse page: https://dmv.ri.gov/registrations-plates-titles/transfers/surviving-spouse |
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FAQ
How do I transfer a car title after someone dies in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island DMV procedures: (1) Surviving spouse: bring the original death certificate, the current registration in the deceased's name, the title (always required for model year 2001 and newer), an Application for Registration (TR-1) and a sales or use tax exemption certificate; there is no cost for a spouse. If there is a lien, the original title and a permission letter from the lender are also required. (2) Executor or administrator appointed: the original Notice of Appointment from the probate court is the only acceptable document, and the executor or administrator signs the title as seller. (3) No surviving spouse and no executor: next of kin or adult children complete the Sole Heir Affidavit (which replaces the assignment on the back of the title) and bring the original death certificate. Out-of-state vehicles need a VIN inspection by local police.
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.