Transferring a car title after the owner dies in Rhode Island
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in Rhode Island.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in Rhode Island, a surviving spouse signs the title as both seller and buyer and brings the original death certificate, with no fee and no tax. An executor brings the original Notice of Appointment and signs as seller. With no spouse and no executor, the heirs use the Sole Heir Affidavit.
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 Rhode Island sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in Rhode Island?
A surviving spouse
Sign the title as both seller and buyer and bring the original death certificate. There is no fee and no tax.
dmv.ri.gov checkedAn executor or administrator
Bring the original Notice of Appointment from the Probate Court. The executor signs the title as seller.
dmv.ri.gov checkedNext of kin or parents, with no spouse and no executor
Fill out the Sole Heir Affidavit and leave the back of the title blank. Bring the original death certificate.
Affidavit and Assignment of Title (Sole Heir Affidavit)dmv.ri.gov checkedA small estate
A voluntary executor can be named under the small estates law at your city or town hall.
dmv.ri.gov checkedCommon questions
Is there a fee for a surviving spouse?
No. There is no fee and no tax for the spouse.
dmv.ri.gov checked
What if there is no spouse and no executor?
The next of kin fill out the Sole Heir Affidavit and leave the back of the title blank.
dmv.ri.gov checked
What about a small estate?
A voluntary executor can be named at your city or town hall.
dmv.ri.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Rhode Island sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles, 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.