Transferring a car title after the owner dies in Utah
For a spouse, child, heir or executor dealing with a car that was owned by someone who died in Utah.
To transfer a car title after the owner dies in Utah, a survivor can use the Survivorship Affidavit (TC-569C) for a small estate with no personal representative and no active lien. Otherwise the estate goes through probate, and the court's representative signs the title.
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 Utah sources.
Which route applies when a car owner dies in Utah?
A small estate: the Survivorship Affidavit
At least thirty days after the death, with no more than four vehicles, an estate of no more than the limit set in Utah law, no personal representative and no active lien, the survivor uses the Survivorship Affidavit (TC-569C) and signs the title as the owner's name, by their name, as survivor.
TC-569C · Survivorship Affidavitdmv.utah.gov checkedThe estate goes through probate
If the estate doesn't qualify, the court's documents name a representative who signs the title for the owner.
dmv.utah.gov checkedTwo owners joined by OR
One owner has died and the other is selling: the surviving owner signs the title alone.
dmv.utah.gov checkedCommon questions
When can I use the Utah Survivorship Affidavit?
At least thirty days after the death, with no more than four vehicles, no personal representative and no active lien.
dmv.utah.gov checked
How do I sign the title as a survivor?
Write the owner's name, then by your name, as survivor.
dmv.utah.gov checked
What if the title has two owners joined by OR?
The surviving owner can sign the title over alone.
dmv.utah.gov checked
Sources for this page
About this page
This page summarizes official Utah sources in plain English. Car Title Steps is not a government website, is not connected to the Utah 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.