couple transferring title

What Do I Need to Transfer a Title in Georgia?

Ensuring the proper transfer of a title in Georgia is not only essential for good practice but also a legal requirement. A car's title serves as the ultimate proof of ownership, making it a requirement to complete the transfer to become a legal owner. Additionally, having a valid title is crucial if you're considering title pawns to address unexpected expenses. In this article, we will explain the needed requirements and processes involved in transferring a title in Georgia. Furthermore, we will address a common question: "Do you need a title for a car over 20 years old in Georgia?" Understanding these details will guide you through a successful title transfer, allowing you to explore options like obtaining cash for your car title post-transfer.

Everything You Need To Transfer A Title In Georgia

In the state of Georgia, you need the following items to transfer a title:

  • Form MV-1, otherwise known as a Motor Vehicle Title Application. The seller must sign it
  • Your vehicle might need to pass an emissions inspection
  • $18 title transfer fee plus the registration charge and taxes

The Emissions Inspection And Smog Tests

Generally speaking, your vehicle must pass an emissions test during the title transfer process. It's an annual inspection, and the requirements differ depending on various vehicle factors like the manufacturing year, vehicle type, and vehicle registration location.

As per Georgia law, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, and motor homes don't need to undergo smog tests, nor do diesel vehicles. Other vehicles exempt from these inspections are:

  • Vehicles that meet the requirements owned by citizens aged at least 65
  • Vehicles over 25 model years or those made in 2015 or later
  • Vehicles with a gross weight rating over 8,500 lbs.
  • Mopeds and other non-motorized vehicles

However, a check might be necessary if you're trying to receive a replacement vehicle registration. Plus, other non-diesel vehicles requiring registration must pass a smog check.

How To Transfer A Title In Georgia

When selling, buying, or inheriting a vehicle, you must complete a title transfer with the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR). The process is slightly different depending on your situation:

Buying From A Dealer

This is perhaps the easiest scenario because they handle the title documents on your behalf. First, they issue a temporary permit for 30 days before receiving proof of ownership. Then, you register the vehicle with your county's tax office.

buying a car from a dealer after title transfer

Buying From A Private Seller

Buying from a private seller involves signing the dedicated title section to acknowledge the odometer reading. However, never sign a blank title. It's against the law for sellers to offer a blank title. You must complete a title transfer within 30 days of purchasing the vehicle at a Georgia DOR office. You'll need the following:

  • Proof of GA auto insurance
  • Valid driver's license
  • Form MV-1
  • Assigned vehicle title
  • Emission certificate (if applicable)
  • Payment ($28 total)

Selling In Georgia

If you're selling the vehicle, ensure you fill out the title correctly to reassign the vehicle's owner. You must complete the information listed below:

  • Your name and address as shown on your driver's license
  • Sale dated or date of vehicle title transfer
  • Odometer reading, unless:
    • Vehicle weighs over 16,000 lbs.
    • It's at least 20 years old
    • Vehicle is transferred from a government agency or manufacturer
    • Vehicle is transferred from one dealer to another
    • It's a non-self-propelled vehicle
  • Signature

Inheriting In Georgia

If a vehicle owner dies, the title is transferred to a beneficiary. But without a beneficiary or living spouse, the probate process occurs.

How To Get Car Title Cash With Georgia Auto Pawn, Inc.

Once you've successfully transferred a car title in Georgia, you can pawn your car for cash to cover emergency expenses. Here's how to do it:

  1. Contact one of our Georgia Auto Pawn, Inc. stores by phone or use our simple online inquiry form. The latter delivers your information straight to your preferred location.
  2. Answer your phone when one of our friendly loan representatives calls you to confirm your information. They'll also tell you about the process, explain the required items, and answer questions. At this stage, you'll decide whether you'd like to meet at your nearest Georgia Auto Pawn, Inc. store or a more convenient location (e.g., your home or work).
  3. Meet the verification agent who performs a five-minute vehicle inspection to establish the amount of money you qualify for.
  4. If you're happy with the amount, you continue with the car title pawn process, which involves signing a few documents.
  5. Finally, you receive the money you need on the same or the very next bank business day.

man got title loan cash

Get Car Title Cash Right Away!

Knowing how to transfer a title successfully saves a lot of hassle when buying, selling, or inheriting a vehicle. Plus, it gives you a relatively easy route to emergency funding when life throws you unexpected misgivings.

So, if you've transferred your title and are looking to secure title cash, give us a call or complete our online inquiry form. It takes just five minutes, and you could borrow up to $15,000 to cover everything from medical bills to home repairs.

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

Mason Roberts

Mason Roberts is a seasoned economics writer and blogger with a knack for breaking down and simply communicating the ever-changing world of finance. He is philosophically committed to the premise that financial knowledge equals financial freedom.