How To Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee

How To Transfer a Car Title in Tennessee
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Step 1. Check for a Clear Title

If there’s a lien on the title, you’ll need to get a Notice of Discharge of Lien before the transfer.


Step 2. Complete the Assignment of Title by Registered Owners Section of the Title

  • Odometer reading
  • Signature and address of the seller
  • Buyer signature and printed name
  • Date of sale
  • Sales price

Step 3. Complete Additional Documents

Other documents you may need include:

Visit your county clerk’s office website to see if you need other papers.


Step 4. Apply for a New Certificate of Title

Contact your local county clerk for specific instructions on how to apply.


Step 5. Pay Fees and Taxes

The title fee is $11 + $1 transfer fee. Standard license plates are $26.50.

State sales and use tax is 7%. Local taxes range from 1.5% to 2.75%.

Transfers may be tax-exempted:

  • Between spouses and children
  • To your or your spouse’s lineal relatives
  • Gifts and donations

Conclusion

To transfer a certificate of title in Tennessee, you need to Complete both the title assignment on the back of the certificate and apply for a new title.

You may need other forms, depending on your circumstances.

When you buy or sell a used car with PrivateAuto, you get electronic state-specific documents you can sign straight from the platform.

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