How to Get a Title When the Owner Is Deceased
- 1). Determine that the vehicle is clear to be sold or transferred to the inheriting party by following all the rules of the probate court. Consult a probate attorney for guidance. If the vehicle is jointly owned, it becomes the property of the remaining owner or owners, and they must transfer the title.
- 2). Obtain a certified letter of testamentary or letter of administration from the probate judge if you are the executor of the estate. If you are the inheriting party and obtaining the title on your own, the probate court will provide an affidavit attesting to your right to do so. You may also need a copy of the death certificate.
- 3). Take the vehicle's registration, your photo ID and the certified letter of testamentary, or letter of administration or legal affidavit, to the closest Department of Motor Vehicles office.
- 4). Request the necessary documents for the transfer of vehicle ownership. Fill out the paperwork, naming the person who is inheriting the vehicle as the person the title is being transferred to, or naming yourself if you are inheriting.
- 5). Present the completed paperwork, your photo identification, court documents and required fee, which may vary by state, to the DMV agent for processing.
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