Transferring a car title after the owner dies in New Jersey
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in New Jersey.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in New Jersey, it depends on the title and the estate. A surviving spouse or partner on the title uses the notarized Affidavit for surviving spouse or domestic partner (BA-62). A named beneficiary skips the estate. Otherwise the executor, a surrogate affidavit for a small estate, or the administrator handles it.
If the estate is going through probate, or family members disagree, talk to the probate court or a lawyer before you sign anything.
Last checked against official New Jersey sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in New Jersey?
Spouses or domestic partners on the title
The survivor signs the title and brings a copy of the death certificate and a notarized Affidavit (BA-62). The title fee applies.
BA-62 · Affidavit for surviving spouse or domestic partnernj.gov checkedA transfer on death beneficiary
The car is not part of the estate. The beneficiary brings the form with the title and death certificate.
Transfer on Death Beneficiary Designationnj.gov checkedAn executor (there is a will)
Bring the title signed by the executor, the Surrogate's Short Certificate and a driver's license to a Vehicle Center.
nj.gov checkedNo will: a surviving spouse or partner, estate up to $50,000
Bring the title and an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse/Domestic Partner/Civil Union Partner with the raised seal of the County Surrogate.
nj.gov checkedNo will: heirs, estate up to $20,000
Bring the title signed by the next of kin and an Affidavit of Next of Kin with the County Surrogate's raised seal.
nj.gov checkedA larger estate
The administrator signs the title and brings an Administrator's Short Certificate.
nj.gov checkedCommon questions
Does a transfer on death beneficiary need letters of administration?
No. The car is not part of the estate, so no letters of administration are needed.
nj.gov checked
What if there is no will and no spouse?
Heirs can use an Affidavit of Next of Kin with the County Surrogate's seal when the estate is small. Otherwise the administrator signs.
nj.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official New Jersey sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, 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.