How to Transfer a Car Title in Utah: Step-by-Step

Transferring a Car Title in Utah

Whether you're buying or selling a vehicle in Utah, you'll need to transfer the title. Here's a step-by-step guide to make the process smooth.

What the Seller Needs to Do

As the seller, your responsibilities include:

  1. Sign the back of the title — Sign and print your name in the seller section
  2. Record the odometer reading — Required by federal law for vehicles less than 20 years old
  3. Fill out the sale price — This determines the buyer's sales tax
  4. Remove your license plates — Utah plates stay with the seller, not the vehicle
  5. Provide a bill of sale — While not legally required in Utah, it's strongly recommended
  6. Notify the DMV — Report the sale to protect yourself from future liability

What the Buyer Needs to Do

The buyer must complete these steps within a reasonable time:

  1. Get the signed title from the seller
  2. Complete form TC-656 (Title and Registration Application)
  3. Get an emissions test — Required in Salt Lake, Davis, Utah, Weber, and Cache counties
  4. Get a safety inspection — Required if the vehicle is new to Utah registration
  5. Visit a Utah DMV office with all documents
  6. Pay the title transfer fee ($6) and registration fees
  7. Pay sales tax — 7.75% in most Utah counties (varies slightly by location)

Important Documents

For the title transfer, you'll need:

  • Original signed title (or MCO for new vehicles)
  • Valid photo ID (both parties)
  • Form TC-656
  • Emissions certificate (if applicable)
  • Safety inspection certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of insurance
  • Payment for fees and taxes

Common Issues to Watch For

Liens on the title — If there's a loan on the vehicle, the lienholder's name will appear on the title. The loan must be paid off before the title can be transferred. The lender will release the lien and send a clear title.

Out-of-state titles — If the vehicle has a title from another state, the process is the same but may take longer. The Utah DMV will issue a new Utah title.

Name discrepancies — Make sure the name on the title matches the seller's ID exactly. Misspellings or name changes require additional documentation.

Skip the Paperwork

When you sell through Cash For Cars, the dealer handles most of the title transfer paperwork for you. Get your free offer and let a local Utah dealer take care of the details.