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New Jersey License Plate Lookup /Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member

How To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in New Jersey in 2025

What Does Transferring a Car Title to a Family Member in New Jersey Mean?

Transferring a car title to a family member in New Jersey involves officially changing the legal ownership of a motor vehicle from one relative to another. The State of New Jersey requires that all vehicles remain properly registered, and the correct title reflects actual ownership. This measure ensures that liability, financial obligations, and responsibilities linked to the vehicle are clearly assigned to the rightful owner. When transferring a title within a family, certain tax benefits, fee reductions, or simplified processes may apply, but it is important to follow the established rules set by the state.

In New Jersey, a vehicle’s license plate is issued in the name of the registered owner. When transferring ownership, the new owner typically needs to re-register the vehicle and possibly obtain a new license plate, unless specific exemptions apply. Each scenario depends on factors such as the type of transfer (gift or sale), the relationship between parties, and the registration status of the vehicle. To help facilitate the proper and lawful transfer of vehicle ownership, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) mandates that certain procedures and documents be completed and submitted.

Eligible Family Members for Title Transfers in New Jersey

When performing a title transfer to a family member within New Jersey, it is important to confirm which relationships qualify for streamlined procedures or specialized tax treatment. Generally, the following relatives are considered eligible family members under state guidelines:

  • Parents or legal guardians
  • Children (biological, adopted, or stepchildren)
  • Siblings (brothers or sisters)
  • Spouses
  • Grandparents
  • Grandchildren

These familial connections often benefit from more direct or cost-effective transfer procedures. In some instances, more extended relatives may be considered eligible, but this typically requires additional documentation and may not receive the same tax benefits. It is essential to verify any potential eligibility by consulting the latest information from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission before proceeding with a title transfer.

How To Transfer a Car Title as a Gift to a Family Member in New Jersey

Gift transfers between qualifying family members can simplify the process and where applicable, eliminate or reduce certain taxes. However, all recipients must still satisfy the requirements for vehicle ownership and registration. The steps generally include:

  1. Obtain a signed vehicle title from the current owner (the donor). Ensure that all sections on the back of the title are properly filled out, including the odometer reading and any lien release if applicable.
  2. Mark “gift” or “0” in the purchase price field on the title or application forms, if the vehicle is indeed a gift (and state requirements allow listing zero purchase price).
  3. Complete the relevant sections of the Certificate of Title (Form BA-62) if required by the New Jersey MVC.
  4. Consider whether you are also transferring the existing license plate or applying for a new one. If retaining the existing plate, verify that it is permitted under state rules.
  5. If the donor’s vehicle registration is still valid, it may be possible to transfer that to the recipient. Otherwise, the recipient must apply for a new registration along with the title transfer.
  6. Check if any specific gift exemptions apply regarding usage tax or transfer fees. In some family transfers, you may be required to sign an affidavit or provide evidence of a familial relationship to qualify for certain exemptions.

When gifting a vehicle, a failure to document the title properly can result in legal complications or delays in registering the car. Therefore, each party should verify all relevant regulations prior to initiating the transfer.

How To Transfer a Car Title as a Sale to a Family Member in New Jersey

Selling a car to a family member in New Jersey follows a process similar to any private vehicle sale, though some fees or procedures might be streamlined or reduced. The following steps are commonly taken:

  1. Determine the sale price and note it prominently on the title and on the required application forms.
  2. Verify that there are no outstanding liens, and if there are, ensure the lender has released the lien in writing.
  3. Fill out the back of the certificate of title completely, including the odometer reading and the signature of both the seller and the buyer.
  4. Make sure to cancel or properly transfer the current vehicle registration if the license plate and registration will be moved to another vehicle. The new owner will typically need to obtain a new registration in their own name.
  5. Provide the buyer (family member) with a Bill of Sale if necessary. Certain family transfers might allow for exemptions or fee adjustments.
  6. Advise the buyer to visit the New Jersey MVC office or use the state’s online portal (if applicable) to complete registration, pay the title transfer fee, and manage any applicable taxes.

Even when family is involved, it is prudent to document the transaction thoroughly. This ensures clarity around any financial obligations and prevents administrative complications later on, such as disputed fees or difficulties obtaining license plates.

What Documents Are Needed To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in New Jersey

Proper documentation is critical for a smooth title transfer. Any missing forms or incorrect information can delay or void the process. The New Jersey MVC usually requires:

  • Completed and signed original vehicle title (with odometer disclosure).
  • Lien release documentation (if there was a loan on the vehicle).
  • A valid driver license or other acceptable form of identification for both parties, depending on the exact procedure.
  • Proof of insurance under the new owner’s name (for completion of registration).
  • A completed title application form (often BA-62, depending on the circumstances).
  • Payment method (cash, check, or acceptable credit/debit) for any title, registration, and license plate fees.

In addition, the new owner should have the vehicle’s license plate information or request a new plate if needed. Families transferring vehicles as gifts may also need to complete affidavits of gift and familial relationship, while those transferring vehicles due to inheritance or court orders will be asked to supply extra documentation. Always confirm up-to-date requirements with the state’s official guidelines to avoid any missteps.

How To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member Online in New Jersey

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission has been expanding its offerings for online services, including certain aspects of vehicle title transfers for eligible transactions. While full digital transfers may be limited in scope, the following outlines how an online transfer might be initiated:

  1. Visit the official New Jersey MVC website to check if your transaction type qualifies for online title transfer. Some gift or sale to a family member may still require an in-person visit.
  2. Register for or log in to your MVC online account if you are eligible to handle transactions digitally.
  3. Enter the vehicle’s information, including make, model, year, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  4. Provide information about the transfer, specifying whether it is a gift or a sale, the relationship between parties, and purchase price (if applicable).
  5. Upload any required documentation (lien release, driver license copy, or affidavit of gift, if relevant).
  6. Pay the required fees with an approved payment method.
  7. Monitor your email and the MVC website for updates regarding the status of the online transfer.

If the online transfer process is not applicable for your specific situation, a visit to the local MVC office will be necessary. In some cases, only certain components (such as payment processing or registration updates) can be conducted online, so verifying the most current online service offerings is crucial.

What’s the Cost To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in New Jersey?

The cost of transferring a car title to a family member in New Jersey varies based on several factors. Typically, the following fees or taxes may be relevant:

• Title Fee: There is a standard fee charged by the New Jersey MVC for issuing a new title in the recipient’s name.
• Registration Fee: If the vehicle is being re-registered, an additional registration fee applies, dependent on the vehicle’s weight class and other attributes.
• License Plate Fees: New plates may require a separate fee if the family member does not already have an applicable plate to transfer, or if the registration is from out of state.
• Sales and Use Tax: In certain cases, family transfers might be exempt or partially exempt, especially if the transaction is deemed a gift or between specific relatives. If it is classified as a sale, a reduced tax or standard sales tax might apply based on the sale price.

It is important to consult with the New Jersey MVC directly or through their official website for an accurate calculation of potential fees. Documentation of one’s relationship to the seller or donor may be required to confirm eligibility for certain exemptions or reduced rates.

• New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission:
https://www.nj.gov/mvc

• State of New Jersey Official Website:
https://www.nj.gov