Transfer Car Title Basics: Tips To Know About Your Nevada Title

Written By June Mckaig

Published on July 29, 2022

Updated on August 11, 2025

Failing to complete a Nevada car title transfer properly can lead to serious consequences—like legal liability, registration delays, or future issues when trying to sell or insure your vehicle. Whether you're new to the state, buying or selling a car, or inheriting one, it’s crucial to understand how to transfer car title in Nevada the right way.

Let’s break down the vehicle title transfer process so you can avoid mistakes and move forward with confidence.

How to Transfer a Car Title in Nevada

A Nevada car title transfer is recommended for all vehicle sales, gifts, or relocations.
Dealers handle most of the paperwork, but private sales require DMV forms, ID, insurance, and emissions results.
Inherited and gifted vehicles follow similar steps to private sales.
A Nevada DMV title transfer can be done in person or online, depending on your situation.
Having a lien-free title allows you to apply for a car title loan Nevada residents use for fast cash.

New to Nevada? Here’s What to Know

If you’ve recently moved to the Silver State, it’s strongly recommended that you complete a Nevada DMV title transfer within 30 days of becoming a resident. While not legally required, updating your vehicle’s title early helps prevent complications—especially when selling or financing your vehicle.

For full official requirements, visit the Nevada DMV Title Transfer Page.

You’ll also be able to register your vehicle in Nevada at the same time, simplifying the process.

Buying or Selling a Vehicle in Nevada

Buying from a Dealership

When you purchase from a licensed dealership, they’ll handle most of the Nevada car title transfer process for you. By law, they must submit the necessary paperwork to the DMV within 30 days, and your new title will be mailed to you. If you finance the car, the title will be sent directly to the lienholder instead.

You’ll still need to handle your vehicle registration separately—this part of the vehicle title transfer process can usually be completed online.

Buying from a Private Seller

You’ll need the signed original title from the seller, proof of any lien release, a valid emissions test (within the last 90 days), Nevada insurance, a VIN inspection (if it's your first time titling in Nevada), your government-issued ID, and Form VP-222.

Selling a Car in Nevada

If you’re the seller, you’ll need to:

Remove your license plates
Sign over the title (all owners must sign if "and" appears; only one if "or")
Provide a bill of sale and lien release (if needed)
Notify the DMV to finalize the Nevada DMV title transfer

Inherited, Gifted, or Donated Vehicles

Gifting a Vehicle

This follows the same steps as a private sale—no special forms required beyond title transfer and bill of sale.

Inheriting a Vehicle

You’ll need to surrender the deceased’s plates and license, provide a death certificate, and submit the original title. The DMV will then issue a new title and registration in your name.

Donating a Vehicle

Donating your car to a charity or nonprofit in Nevada is a generous act—and it still requires a proper Nevada car title transfer just like any other vehicle hand-off. Whether you're giving your car to a local organization or a national charity, you'll need to ensure the title is correctly transferred to avoid future legal or financial responsibility.

buying a car

Removing a Lien from Your Title

Once your auto loan is paid off, your lender should send the cleared title. If not, they’ll send a lien release letter. File this with the DMV to finalize the Nevada car title transfer and have the vehicle officially in your name.

Need Fast Cash? Consider a Car Title Loan in Nevada

Once your vehicle is fully titled in your name, you may qualify for a car title loan Nevada residents often turn to during financial emergencies. These loans let you borrow against your car’s value—quickly and securely.

To apply with Nevada Title and Payday Loans, Inc., you’ll need:

Your lien-free Nevada car title
A valid photo ID
Your vehicle for a quick inspection

Learn more about how car title loans work in Nevada and apply online today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I start a Nevada car title transfer online?
A: Visit the Nevada DMV website to access forms and scheduling for title services. Some private party transfers can begin online, depending on your county.

Q: Is a title transfer required if I'm gifting a car to family?
A: Yes, gifting a vehicle still requires a title transfer and bill of sale, but no special taxes or forms are needed beyond those used in private sales.

Q: What happens if I don't complete a Nevada DMV title transfer on time?
A: Delaying your title transfer can lead to fines, denied registration, or legal problems if the vehicle is involved in an accident.

Transfer Your Title Today

Completing a Nevada car title transfer is an essential part of responsible vehicle ownership. Whether you're buying, selling, inheriting, or gifting a vehicle, knowing how to transfer car title in Nevada saves you time and stress. Use these Nevada car title tips to stay compliant—and take advantage of financial tools like car title loan Nevada programs when needed.

Need emergency cash? If your car title is in your name and lien-free, you could qualify for a same-day title loan through Nevada Title and Payday Loans, Inc. It’s fast, secure, and designed to help you handle life’s unexpected expenses.

Start your online application now and get the cash you need—without giving up your car.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.