Georgia Car Titles

Georgia Car Titles

In Georgia, as in other states, a car title is a legal document that establishes ownership of a vehicle.

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How Car Titles Work in Georgia

Here is an overview of how car titles work in Georgia, from application to out of state titles and everything in between:

1. Title Application: When you purchase a new or used vehicle, you must apply for a title in your name. For new vehicles, this is typically handled by the dealership. For private sales, you'll need to complete the process yourself.
2. Required Documents: To title a vehicle in Georgia, you'll need to provide certain documents to the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR), including a valid form of identification, proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale), the vehicle's previous title signed by the previous owner, a completed Motor Vehicle Title/Tag Application (Form MV-1), and proof of insurance.
3. Fees: There is a title fee that you must pay when applying for a title. Additional taxes, such as the Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT), may also apply, depending on whether the vehicle is new or used and other factors.
4. Tag/Registration: In addition to titling your vehicle, you must also register it and obtain a Georgia license plate (or “tag”). Registration typically needs to be renewed annually. At the time of registration, you will pay the TAVT if applicable, along with registration fees and any applicable ad valorem taxes.
5. Liens: If there is a lien on the vehicle (for example, if you have an auto loan), the lienholder's information will be recorded on the title. The title will be sent to the lienholder if there is an outstanding loan. Once the loan is paid off, the lienholder is responsible for providing the owner with a lien release, and a clean title can then be issued in the owner's name.
6. Electronic Titles: Georgia utilizes electronic titles for certain vehicles. If your vehicle has an electronic title, the title information is stored electronically in the state's system, and you will not receive a paper title unless you specifically request one, which might involve a fee.
7. Transferring Titles: When selling a vehicle, the title must be transferred to the new owner. This is done by properly filling out the assignment and warranty sections on the back of the title, including the buyer’s name, the date of the sale, the odometer reading (if required), and signatures from all parties. The buyer then needs to take this title documentation to the DOR to apply for a new title in their name.
8. Lost or Damaged Titles: If a title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate title through the DOR by filling out the appropriate form (Form MV-1) and paying the required fee.
9. Out-of-State Titles: When bringing a vehicle from out of state, you'll need to have the title transferred to a Georgia title within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. It’s important to check with the Georgia Department of Revenue for any specific requirements or documents needed for vehicles coming from out of state.

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Additional information

• https://dor.georgia.gov/motor-vehicles/motor-vehicle-titles-and-registration
• https://dor.georgia.gov/motor-vehicles/motor-vehicle-titles-and-registration/general-title-information
• https://dor.georgia.gov/replace-lost-or-stolen-title

These are general guidelines for how car titles work in Georgia. It is always recommended to consult the Georgia DOR's website or contact them directly for the most current information and any changes that may have occurred after my knowledge cutoff date.