Transferring a car title after the owner dies in North Dakota
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in North Dakota. In North Dakota, car titles go through the North Dakota Department of Transportation, which most people call the DMV.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in North Dakota, a joint owner with right of survivorship signs the title and attaches a certified copy of the death certificate. For a small estate, the heir signs SFN 2916 in front of a notary at least thirty days after the death. Other estates bring court papers.
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 North Dakota sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in North Dakota?
Joint owners with right of survivorship
The survivor signs the title and attaches a certified copy of the death certificate.
nd.gov checkedA small estate of $100,000 or less
At least 30 days after the death, the heir signs SFN 2916 in front of a notary.
SFN 2916 · Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedentdot.nd.gov checkedOther estates
Bring the letters of administration, letters testamentary or a court order. A will alone is not accepted.
dot.nd.gov checkedCommon questions
Is a will enough?
No. A will alone is not accepted. Bring letters of administration, letters testamentary or a court order.
dot.nd.gov checked
What counts as a small estate?
One that the heir swears on SFN 2916 is under the limit printed on the form.
dot.nd.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official North Dakota sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the North Dakota Department of Transportation, 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.