How to transfer a car title in Montana
For private sellers and buyers in Montana. A dealer trade-in follows the dealer's own process.
To transfer a car title in Montana, the seller signs the title over in blue or black ink, writes the buyer's name and address and the mileage, and takes the plates off. The buyer signs and applies at the County Treasurer's office within 40 days of the sale. No notary is needed.
What do the buyer and seller each do in Montana?
Seller
- Only the owner listed on the title can sell the car. Have any lien released before you sell.
- Fill out the title in blue or black ink. White out or crossed out entries void the title.
- Write the buyer's name and address on the title, and the mileage for a 2011 or newer car.
- Take your plates off the car. They belong to you, not the car.
- Keep a record of the sale, such as a copy of the signed title or a bill of sale on Form MV24.
Buyer
- Sign the title. The person who signs must be the buyer written on the title.
- Check that the VIN on the title matches the car.
- Apply for the title and register the car at your County Treasurer's office within 40 days. After 40 days there is a $10 late fee.
- Buy new plates when you title the car. A 40 day temporary permit is available from a County Treasurer's office.
- Insure the car before you drive it.
If you're not sure what you need, check with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division before you go: mvdmt.gov
How do I sign over a car title in Montana?
Step 1 · Seller
Sign the title over.
Blue or black ink. Add the buyer's name and address and the mileage.
Step 2 · Seller
Take off your plates.
The buyer gets new plates.
Step 3 · Seller
Keep a record.
A copy of the signed title or a bill of sale.
We have not confirmed whether Montana requires a bill of sale. Check with the Montana Motor Vehicle Division before you sell.
Montana bill of saleHow do I put a car title in my name in Montana?
Step 1 · Buyer
Sign the title.
Your name must match the buyer written on it.
Step 2 · Buyer
Go to your County Treasurer within 40 days.
Apply for the title, register the car and get plates.
MV1 · Certificate of Title for a Motor Vehicle Application
After Montana MVD processes your papers, it issues the new title in the new owner's name.
Montana guides
How much does a title transfer cost in Montana?
| Fee | Amount | Who pays | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Title fee | Being checked | Buyer | mvdmt.gov Checked |
| Late fee, after 40 days (if it applies) | $10 | Buyer | mvdmt.gov Checked |
| Lien filing fee, if there is a loan (if it applies) | $8.24 | Buyer | mvdmt.gov Checked |
| Total of required fees | Not confirmed yet |
Fees can change. Check the official page before you pay.
Special cases
- Giving a car as a giftNot confirmed yet Gift steps for Montana are being checked.
- Lost titleUse the Certificate of Title Replacement Application (MV7).
Common questions
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Montana sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Montana Motor Vehicle Division, 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.