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The Complete Guide to Transferring a Vehicle Title in Oregon
Transferring a vehicle title in Oregon requires specific steps to ensure a legal and smooth transfer of ownership. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps involved in transferring a vehicle title in Oregon, including the required forms, costs, processing locations, and answers to the top 5 common questions about title transfers.
How to Transfer a Vehicle Title in Oregon
Here are the steps for transferring a vehicle title in Oregon:
- Step 1: Gather the Required Documents and Forms: Before starting the title transfer process, gather the necessary documents and forms. The primary form you’ll need is the Vehicle Title Application (Form 735-226), which can be found on the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) website.
- Step 2: Complete the Vehicle Title Application:Complete the Vehicle Title Application form providing accurate information about the buyer, seller, vehicle details, and transaction information. Ensure that you fill in all sections correctly to avoid delays in the transfer process.
- Step 3: Provide Additional Required Documents: In addition to the Vehicle Title Application, you will need to provide additional documents, including:
- The vehicle’s original title certificate or Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO)
- A Bill of Sale with the purchase price and odometer reading
- A Name, Address and Signature (NAS) Addendum if you need to add or delete names on the title
- Liability insurance proof.
Ensure all documents are complete, signed, and accurate before proceeding.
- Step 4: Pay the Title Transfer Fees:Transferring a vehicle title in Oregon incurs several fees, including a title fee and registration fee. The exact cost of these fees varies depending on the type of vehicle you own. To get an accurate estimate of the fees, refer to the Oregon DMV website’s Fee Page.
- Step 5: Complete the Title Transfer: After you have gathered the necessary forms, documents, and payment, you can complete the title transfer process. In Oregon, you can transfer titles through any of the following options:
- Online Title Transfers: You can complete the title transfer process online through the Oregon DMV website.
- In-Person Title Transfers: You can transfer the title in person at a local Oregon DMV office.
- Title Transfer by Mail: You can send the completed title transfer documents to the DMV office through the mail.
Top 5 Common Questions about Title Transfers in Oregon
Q1. Can I transfer a vehicle title without a bill of sale?
A bill of sale is not required to transfer a vehicle title in Oregon. However, it is recommended to have one as proof of the transaction and to protect the interests of both the buyer and seller.
Q2. Do I need insurance before transferring the title?
It’s mandatory to have auto insurance before transferring the title. Liability coverage must be maintained continuously throughout your car ownership period.
Q3. Can I transfer the title of a deceased person’s vehicle?
Yes, but only to an immediate relative. If the deceased person named as the owner of the vehicle did not have a will, the vehicle will be transferred to the heirs through the probate court.
Q4. What if the vehicle title is not in my name?
If the vehicle title is not in your name, you cannot transfer it. You will need to have the seller transfer the title into their name before they can sell it to you.
Q5. What if there is a lien on the vehicle?
If there is a lien on the vehicle, the lienholder must sign the vehicle title or provide an Oregon lien satisfaction form. The buyer cannot transfer the title to their name until the lien is satisfied.