How to transfer a car title in Kentucky
For private sellers and buyers in Kentucky. A dealer trade-in follows the dealer's own process.
To transfer a car title in Kentucky, the seller signs the back of the title in front of a notary. The buyer takes the signed title, proof of Kentucky insurance and ID to the County Clerk within 15 days of the sale, and pays the title fee and the usage tax of 6% of the price.
What do the buyer and seller each do in Kentucky?
Seller
- Sign the back of the title in front of a notary.
- If the title is from before 2000, the buyer may also need a completed TC 96-182.
- Every owner signs if the names are joined by "and".
Buyer
- Take the signed title, proof of Kentucky insurance, ID and the fees and tax to your County Clerk's office.
- Transfer the title within 15 days of the sale.
- Pay the 6% motor vehicle usage tax at the clerk.
If you're not sure what you need, check with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing before you go: drive.ky.gov
How do I sign over a car title in Kentucky?
Step 1 · Seller
Sign the title in front of a notary.
Sign the back of the title before a notary. That signs ownership over to the buyer.
Step 2 · Seller
Hand over the title.
The buyer takes it to the County Clerk. Older titles from before 2000 may also need TC 96-182.
TC 96-182 · Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title or Registration
We have not confirmed whether Kentucky requires a bill of sale. Check with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing before you sell.
Kentucky bill of saleHow do I put a car title in my name in Kentucky?
Step 1 · Buyer
Get Kentucky insurance.
The proof of insurance must be issued within 45 days.
drive.ky.gov checkedStep 2 · Buyer
Go to your County Clerk's office within 15 days.
Bring the signed title, proof of insurance and ID.
drive.ky.gov checkedStep 3 · Buyer
Pay the title fee and the usage tax.
The clerk collects the 6% usage tax with the title and registration fees.
warrencountyclerk.ky.gov checked
After KYTC processes your papers, it issues the new title in the new owner's name.
Kentucky guides
How much does a title transfer cost in Kentucky?
| Fee | Amount | Who pays | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Title fee | $9 | Buyer | warrencountyclerk.ky.gov Checked |
| Motor vehicle usage tax | 6% of the price | Buyer | warrencountyclerk.ky.gov Checked |
| Speed title (mailed the next business day) (if it applies) | $25 | Buyer | drive.ky.gov Checked |
| Total of required fees, before tax | $9 |
Fees can change. Check the official page before you pay. Tax depends on the price and on who is buying. The tax rules are on the site of the Kentucky Department of Revenue.
Special cases
- Giving a car as a giftNot confirmed yet Gift steps for Kentucky are being checked.
- Lost titleUse the Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title or Registration (TC 96-182).
Common questions
How much is the usage tax in Kentucky?
6% of the price, paid to the County Clerk when the buyer titles the car.
warrencountyclerk.ky.gov checked
Does the title need a notary?
Yes. The seller signs the back of the title in front of a notary.
drive.ky.gov checked
Do both owners have to sign?
Yes, when the names on the title are joined by "and".
drive.ky.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Kentucky sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing, and does not file or prepare forms. Confirm each step with the agency before you sign, pay or mail anything. Found a mistake? Email mr@marcelruettgers.com.