Transferring an Alabama title needs to be done accurately—this is especially important when purchasing from a private seller.
This title transfer guide tells you everything you need to know to get your new-to-you vehicle titled in your name with the state of Alabama.
What is the title transfer process?
The Alabama Title Transfer Process
A car title transfer makes the buyer the new owner of the vehicle. A title transfer is divided into two stages:
- The buyer and seller meet in person. The buyer pays for the car. Both fill out the physical title certificate and sign it. The buyer is now the legal owner of the purchased car.
- The buyer registers the newly bought vehicle with the Alabama Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and the DMV updates its records to establish the buyer as the titled owner.
The first step (the seller signing over the title) is the critical transfer of ownership. The second step is a formality so that the state recognizes you as the new owner.
- As the car seller, you transfer ownership of the car by signing the title over to the buyer. You’ll take off your rear license plate and hand over the keys for good.
- As the buyer, you become the legal owner as soon as the seller transfers the title to your name. You will finalize with the Alabama DMV to get the title and vehicle registration in your name. You’ll also get your own license plates and car insurance.
How do I fill out an Alabama title?
Signing the Title
It’s time to do the actual title transfer. This is a step where the seller signs the title over to the buyer. It’s probably the single most vital step in the entire transaction (along with the buyer paying for the car).
There are some key details you need to pay attention to when signing an Alabama title.
Which docs does AL require?
Front of the Alabama Title
The front of an Alabama title is only for cars that have a lien holder, so you don’t look at this side of the paper.
Back of the Alabama Title
The back of an Alabama title has a section for sellers (red) and buyers (teal).
Here is the step-by-step process for filling out the back of an Alabama vehicle title.
1. In the read section numbered “1,” the seller enters the date the car was transferred to the new owner, the buyer’s name, and the buyer’s address.
2. The seller enters the exact odometer reading in the red section marked “2”.
3. In the red square marked “3,” the seller enters the date of sale and the sale price.
4. The buyer acknowledges the certification made by the seller by signing and printing their name.
4.1. If there is a co-buyer, they will also sign and print their name.
5. The seller signs and prints their name and enters their address in the red rectangle marked “5”.
How to finalize with the DMV office?
Finalize Ownership Transfer with the Alabama DMV
You’ve done the deal and are the owner of a new-to-you vehicle. Your work is not done yet. There are still steps you need to take to finalize your vehicle’s title transfer with the Division of Motor Vehicles Alabama.
You will also need to get a new license plate, register the car in your name, and pay applicable sales tax on your purchase.
Here’s what you’ll need to provide when you do your titling and registration at the DMV office:
- The Certificate of Title, signed over to you by the previous vehicle owner.
- A completed title application.
- Completed bill of sale.
- Proof of lien release (if applicable).
- Payment for Alabama’s vehicle title transfer fee: $15.
- Payment for Alabama registration fee: from $23 and $105.
- Payment for Alabama’s sales tax: 2% of the vehicle purchase price.
- Payment for Alabama license plate: $23.
- Proof of identification.
- Proof of insurance.
- Proof of VIN inspection.
Your registration fee includes the cost of an Alabama standard license plate.
Alabama Title Transfer FAQ
How do I apply for a duplicate title in Alabama?
If your car’s title has been damaged, lost, or destroyed, you need to request a replacement title.
You will need to provide the following documentation to the local Alabama DMV:
– Complete an application for replacement title
– Provide your driver’s license
– Pay the $15 replacement vehicle title fee
How much does it cost to renew registration in Alabama?
When renewing vehicle registration in Alabama, you’ll need to pay the standard renewal fees. Here is what to expect:
– The standard renewal registration fee varies from $20 to $105.
– No additional fees apply to standard passenger vehicle renewals.
– Optional new windshield sticker: $2
– Renewals must be completed within 60 days of expiration (registration expires on the vehicle owner’s birthday)
– A $15 late fee applies if renewal is not completed within the 60 days.
Can I transfer a car title to my name in Alabama if the owner is deceased?
If the car has a deceased owner and you are the beneficiary of the car or the next of kin of the person who has died, you can transfer the title to your name. Doing so requires you to take a certified copy of the death certificate, proof of relation to the deceased, and your ID to the Alabama DMV.
How can I register an out-of-state vehicle in Alabama?
Moving to Alabama? To register an out-of-state vehicle in Alabama, you’ll need to submit the following to licensing officials within 30 days of moving:
– Original title
– Proof of Alabama insurance
– Last registration from the previous state (if applicable)
– Payment for all applicable fees
How do I correct an Alabama title or a title assignment?
The only way to correct an error on an Alabama title or title assignment is to submit a Title Correction Affidavit (Form MVT 5-1A).
To complete the AL title correction process, you must provide:
– Supporting documentation (bill of sale, registration, etc..)
– Completed Form MVT 5-1A, notarized
– $15 fee for title correction or $20 for title assignment correction
It takes 2-3 weeks to receive your corrected AL title after submitting the affidavit.