How To Get a Car Title in New Jersey 2026
New Jersey statutes require vehicle owners to secure a certificate of title within ten working days of purchase to establish legal ownership and avoid penalty assessments. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission serves as the state agency charged with issuing vehicle titles and maintaining accurate ownership records for all motor vehicles registered within New Jersey.
Where to Apply for a New Jersey Certificate of Title
New Jersey residents must submit title applications through authorized Motor Vehicle Commission facilities operating throughout the state. Approved processing locations include:
- MVC Vehicle Centers – Full-service facilities located in major municipalities across all 21 counties, staffed by commission representatives handling title and registration transactions
- MVC Licensing Centers – Select locations offering vehicle services in addition to driver licensing functions
- Authorized New Jersey Dealers – Licensed dealerships may process title applications electronically for vehicles sold through their establishments
- Mail Processing – Certain title transactions, excluding initial titles may be submitted by mail to the MVC processing center in Trenton
Required Documents for Title Application in New Jersey
Applicants pursuing a New Jersey certificate of title must submit specified documentation to verify lawful ownership and satisfy commission regulations.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Title Application Form OS/SS-UTA | Completed application signed by owner, lienholder, or authorized representative | Must be signed in blue or black ink; available at MVC centers or downloadable online |
| Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin or Prior Title | Original document showing proper assignment to purchaser | Out-of-state titles must be properly signed and dated; dealer reassignments accepted |
| Valid Photo Identification | Government-issued identification verifying applicant identity | New Jersey driver's license or non-driver ID required; photocopies acceptable for mailed applications |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Specific transaction circumstances necessitate supplementary documentation beyond standard materials:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lien Release Letter | Confirms outstanding loan satisfaction | Must be signed and dated original on lienholder letterhead, including company information and vehicle details |
| Odometer Disclosure Statement Form OS/SS-2 | Records accurate mileage at time of ownership transfer | Federal law mandates disclosure; must be notarized for mileage corrections |
| Power of Attorney | Authorizes representative to execute documents on owner's behalf | Must be notarized original specifying granted powers; business POAs require official letterhead |
| Bill of Sale | Establishes purchase price and transaction date | Required when title lacks complete sales information or for gift exemptions |
| Entity Identification Number (EIN) Confirmation | Verifies business entity registration with MVC | Mandatory when titling vehicles under business or entity names; replaces former CorpCode system |
New Jersey Title Fees and Costs
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission establishes uniform fee schedules for title services, with registration fees calculated based on vehicle classification and weight.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Title Application | $60.00 |
| Title with Single Lien | $85.00 |
| Title with Two Liens | $110.00 |
| Duplicate Title Certificate | $60.00 |
| Title Transfer Transaction | $60.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Vehicle owners should anticipate supplementary charges beyond basic title fees:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee (Under 3,500 lbs, New Vehicle) | $59.00 | Four-year registration issued for new vehicles never previously titled |
| Registration Fee (Under 3,500 lbs, Used Vehicle) | $46.50 | Standard passenger vehicle two years or older |
| Registration Fee (Over 3,500 lbs, New Vehicle) | $84.00 | Heavier passenger vehicles within two model years |
| Registration Fee (Over 3,500 lbs, Used Vehicle) | $71.50 | Vehicles exceeding 3,500 pounds over two model years old |
| Sales Tax | 6.625% of purchase price | Collected by New Jersey dealers; due at agency if not paid at purchase |
| Zero Emission Vehicle Fee | $250.00 annually | Effective July 1, 2024; increases $10 per year for four years; four-year total due for new registrations |
| Late Transfer Penalty | $25.00 | Assessed when title transfer exceeds ten working days from sale date |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Schedule Agency Appointment
Before visiting an MVC facility, schedule an appointment online through the commission's reservation system to ensure prompt service. Walk-in customers face extended wait times and may not receive same-day service during peak periods. Select the appropriate transaction type when booking to expedite processing. Appointments are required for all in-person title transactions at MVC Vehicle Centers.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation and Calculate Fees
Collect the properly assigned certificate of title or manufacturer's certificate of origin showing your name as purchaser with the seller's signature and date. If purchasing from a private party, obtain a bill of sale containing buyer and seller information, sale date, purchase price, and odometer reading. Contact any lienholder to obtain their Entity Identification Number if financing the purchase. Calculate expected fees using the MVC's online registration fee calculator based on vehicle specifications.
Step 3: Verify Sales Tax Payment
Confirm whether sales tax was collected at the time of purchase. New Jersey dealers are required to collect the 6.625% sales tax for state residents and provide documentation showing tax satisfaction stamped on the title. If purchasing from an out-of-state dealer not authorized to collect New Jersey sales tax, you must pay sales tax based on the actual purchase price at the MVC facility. Certain transactions qualify for sales tax exemptions, including gifts between immediate family members when properly documented on the title.
Step 4: Complete Universal Title Application
Obtain and fill out the Universal Title Application Form OS/SS-UTA before your appointment or at the agency. Complete Step 1 by selecting "Initial NJ Title" as the transaction type. Enter complete vehicle information in Step 2, including VIN, year, make, model, and accurate odometer reading. Provide your full name, telephone number, driver's license or EIN, and complete address in Step 3. If the vehicle has a loan or lease, complete Step 4 with lienholder information, including their EIN and contact details.
Step 5: Visit MVC Vehicle Center
Arrive at your scheduled appointment with all required documents, including the completed application, assigned title or certificate of origin, valid photo identification, proof of insurance if registering the vehicle, and payment for all applicable fees. Present materials to the MVC representative, who will review documentation for completeness and accuracy. The commission accepts American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Discover, checks, money orders, and cash for in-person transactions. Credit cards are not accepted for mailed applications.
Step 6: Receive Registration and Await Title
Upon approval, you will receive a registration certificate and license plates if applicable. New vehicles never previously titled receive a four-year registration, while leased vehicles receive registration matching the lease duration. The certificate of title will be mailed to your address or directly to the lienholder if a security interest was recorded on the application. Mailed title processing typically requires six to ten weeks from the submission date.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
New Jersey regulations exempt certain vehicle categories from certificate of title requirements:
- Certain trailers are based on weight classification and intended usage patterns
- Off-highway recreational vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles registered exclusively for off-road operation
- Vessels shorter than 12 feet used for waterborne transportation
Contact Information
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
225 East State Street, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, NJ 08666-0017
Phone: (609) 292-6500
Official Website: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
