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Arkansas License Plate Lookup /Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member

How To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member in Arkansas in 2025

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

Transferring a car title to a family member in Arkansas grants legal rights of ownership from one individual to another, typically a close relative. Official recognition of the change in ownership is critical, as it ensures all state records accurately reflect who bears responsibility for the vehicle. The process involves signing over the title, completing state-required forms, and updating registration details. When the transfer is complete, the new owner may also need to obtain or update the license plate based on Arkansas regulations.

Under Arkansas law, a valid title transfer records the new owner’s name, address, and signature on the legal document that shows they have the right to register, maintain, and operate the vehicle. Although the process of transferring a title follows a standard protocol, different steps may apply if the title is gifted or sold. Family members who meet the eligibility criteria can transfer a title at a potentially reduced tax rate or benefit from other exemptions, depending on the vehicle’s status and the relationship between the parties.

A title transfer also involves ensuring that any outstanding loans, liens, or prior claims on the vehicle have been addressed. Documenting these details is crucial for preventing legal or financial issues stemming from incomplete paperwork. By completing an official title transfer, family members maintain a clear legal record of the transaction and uninterrupted rights to drive the vehicle in Arkansas.

Eligible Family Members for Title Transfers in Arkansas

Under Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) guidelines, certain familial relationships may qualify for preferential treatment or exemptions when transferring a vehicle title. While these guidelines are subject to change, the following types of family members are commonly recognized for intrafamily title transfers:

  • Parents and children, including step-parents and step-children.
  • Spouses, including common-law spouses (if recognized under state laws).
  • Siblings, including half-siblings and step-siblings.
  • Grandparents and grandchildren.

In many situations, transfers among these relatives may be taxed differently from transfers to unrelated individuals. It is advisable to check the most recent title and registration regulations or contact county officials for updated requirements. Clarity regarding the relationship between transferor and transferee can help determine if further documents, such as proof of relationship or genealogical records, are needed.

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

When gifting a vehicle to an eligible relative, the process must still follow all necessary Arkansas title transfer protocols. The steps below outline the general procedure for completing a gift-based transfer:

  1. Sign the Title:
    • The current owner (giver) must sign the title in the designated section for transferring ownership.
    • Ensure that all required fields are accurately filled out, including odometer readings, seller’s signature, and the date of transfer.
  2. Complete a Bill of Gift (If Required):
    • Although a traditional bill of sale may not be necessary for a gift transaction, some counties in Arkansas request a written statement attesting that the vehicle is a gift.
    • Include the names and addresses of both parties, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the statement clarifying that the transfer is a gift.
  3. Provide Proof of Insurance:
    • The recipient (new owner) typically must show valid insurance coverage.
    • Ensure the insurance policy meets Arkansas’s minimum liability standards before registering the vehicle under the recipient’s name.
  4. Pay Applicable Fees and Taxes:
    • While the state may waive certain taxes for a gifting scenario, other fees, such as title and registration fees, will still apply.
    • Bring identification, proof of address, and any required payment forms (cash, check, or approved credit/debit card) to the local revenue office.
  5. Update License Plate Registration:
    • If the vehicle is currently registered, the new owner may need to obtain a new license plate or transfer the existing plate, following state guidelines.
    • Confirm with local officials whether the existing license plate remains valid for the new owner or if new plates and tags must be issued.

Upon successful submission of documents and payment of associated fees, the Arkansas Office of Motor Vehicle (OMV) will process the transferred title. The new title will be mailed to the recipient, typically within several weeks.

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

Transferring a car title through a private sale between family members requires adhering to Arkansas regulations for selling a vehicle. While family sales may proceed faster and at a reduced tax rate in some cases, precise documentation is still paramount. Follow the steps below:

  1. Prepare a Bill of Sale:
    • Include both parties’ legal names, addresses, details of the vehicle (year, make, model, and VIN), and the agreed sale price.
    • Sign and date the bill of sale, making it clear that the transaction is legitimate and consensual.
  2. Sign Over the Title:
    • In the “Seller’s” section, the current owner must properly fill out all relevant areas, including the date of transfer and odometer reading.
    • If there are co-owners, each listed owner must sign.
  3. Check for Liens or Encumbrances:
    • Ensure there are no outstanding liens on the vehicle. If there are, secure a notarized lien release before completing the title transfer.
  4. Present Proof of Insurance:
    • The new owner will need to provide valid insurance covering the vehicle in compliance with Arkansas law.
    • Confirm the policy dates match the anticipated date of transfer.
  5. Pay Title, Registration, and Tax Fees:
    • In a sale transaction, the buyer is typically responsible for paying the applicable sales tax, unless an exemption applies.
    • Officially file the paperwork and submit payment at the local revenue office within the timeframe required by Arkansas regulations (often 30 days after the sale).
  6. License Plates and Decals:
    • If the vehicle’s license plate remains active, authorities will advise whether the plate can be transferred directly.
    • Alternatively, the new owner may need to obtain a fresh plate and updated decals reflecting the new registration.

Upon completion, the buyer will be listed as the official vehicle owner in Arkansas records, receiving a new title and registration. It is recommended that the new owner keep all documentation (bill of sale, signed title, and receipts) for future reference.

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

Accurate documentation is essential to ensure a smooth title transfer in Arkansas. The following documents are typically required:

  • Original Vehicle Title:
    • Must be signed by the current owner(s) and free of errors or alterations.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement:
    • Often integrated into the title, confirming the vehicle’s mileage at the time of transfer.
  • Bill of Sale or Statement of Gift:
    • Depending on whether the transaction is a sale or a gift, a written record is recommended.
  • Proof of Insurance:
    • Demonstrating that the new owner has an active policy meeting state requirements.
  • Valid Driver’s License or State ID:
    • Required for both the transferor and the transferee to verify identity.
  • Lien Release (If Applicable):
    • If there is a recorded lien on the vehicle, a release document is needed.
  • Payment for Fees and Taxes:
    • Title fees, registration fees, and any applicable taxes or penalties must be paid.

Keeping these documents organized and ready at the time of transfer ensures minimal delays when visiting the local revenue office.

How To Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member Online in Arkansas

Arkansas provides certain online services that streamline some elements of title transfer; however, not all title transfer steps can be completed electronically. Prospective users should note the following points:

  1. Check Eligibility for Online Services:
    • Visit the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) website to determine if the specific transfer type is supported.
    • Gift transactions may have unique documentation requirements that must still be submitted in person, depending on current state guidelines.
  2. Gather Digital Copies of Required Documents:
    • You may need to upload or reference your signed title, bill of sale or gift statement, proof of insurance, and lien release documentation.
    • Ensure you have scanned versions of all paperwork in a commonly accepted format (PDF, JPEG, etc.).
  3. Create an Online Account (If Required):
    • Some online title transfer functions may necessitate setting up an account and providing personal details.
    • Securely document your login credentials for future reference.
  4. Verify Payment Methods and Fees:
    • Online transactions typically allow for credit or debit card payments.
    • Confirm the total amount due, including any online service fees, before finalizing your submission.
  5. Confirm Application Submission:
    • After uploading form data and making the necessary payments, check for a confirmation receipt.
    • Print or save a digital copy of the transaction record as evidence of your application.

Certain parts of the title transfer process may still require an in-person visit, such as signatures in front of a notary or verifying original documents. Always review the DFA’s newest directives to confirm online capabilities.

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

Fees for title transfers in Arkansas can vary based on factors such as vehicle weight, the type of license plate, and the relationship between transferor and transferee. Below is a typical breakdown of costs:

  • Title Fee:
    • A standard fee for processing the new title.
  • Registration Fee:
    • Determined by the vehicle category (passenger car, truck, or other).
  • Sales Tax (If Applicable):
    • Calculated on the vehicle’s assessed value or the sale price, although sales between qualifying family members may enjoy tax exemptions or reductions.
  • Additional Fees (If Required):
    • Payment may include any local tax, lien recording costs, or penalty fees if the transaction is not completed within the required timeframe.

It is recommended to consult the local revenue office or the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration website for the most up-to-date fee schedule. Having a clear cost breakdown helps avoid surprises at the time of transfer.