Question

How to transfer a car title in Ohio?

To transfer a car title in the state of Ohio, you must follow a set of instructions and submit the required documents to the BMV. However, these steps and documents can change depending on the reason why you're transferring the car title. Here's how you can transfer a car title based on the reason for the transfer: 

Transfer of Title Due to Death: When the owner of a car passes away, you can transfer the vehicle’s title to another person if you are the surviving spouse, the beneficiary, or the joint owner of the vehicle.  
 
Documents Required: The beneficiary should provide the original title, along with a copy of the original owner’s death certificate. They should apply for a car title transfer using the application form BMV 3774. It’s also important that you carry your driver’s license or proof of identity while visiting the BMV.  
 
Transfer of Title with Right of Survivorship: If the car has joint ownership with right of survivorship and one of the owners passes away, the survivor wholly owns the car. But if the joint ownership was without the right of survivorship, then that car and title go to the executor.  
 
Documents Required: When you are visiting the BMV, make sure to bring the original title, a copy of the death certificate (if applicable), and proof of driver’s license or identity. You also need to apply using the BMV 3774 form.  
 
Transfer of Title to a Spouse: When a married resident passes away, the surviving spouse can transfer as many vehicles as they want, as long as their total value doesn’t exceed $65,000.  
 
Documents Required: You will need several other documents in addition to the original title: a certified copy of the death certificate, an application for a certificate of title, and a driver’s license. Additional documents, like a filled-out form BMV 3773 and a copy of the security agreement, should also be provided.  
 
Transfer of Out-of-State Title: You must transfer the title within a month after moving to the state. Along with the documents, you’ll need to carry out a VIN inspection at the Ohio Deputy Registrar license agency or an Ohio-licensed motor vehicle dealership.  
 
Documents Required: After the VIN inspection, a certificate will be provided. You need to carry that certificate along with a lien release from the lienholder, two original powers of attorney from the lessor (for lease transactions only), and an out-of-state title certificate.