How Much Does It Cost to Transfer a Car Title in Illinois?
Have you ever stared at a stack of paperwork and wondered why a simple car sale feels so complicated? In Illinois, transferring a car title can catch you off guard with fees, forms, and deadlines. Unlike states with a DMV, the Illinois Secretary of State handles everything.
This guide breaks down the 2025 costs for how much it costs to transfer a car title in Illinois [mark], from base fees to taxes. You'll learn the steps, documents, and ways to avoid surprises. Whether buying, selling, or gifting, clear info helps you stay compliant without the stress.
Key Takeaways
Gather required documents and forms
Follow the step-by-step process
Calculate exact fees and taxes
Handle special cases like gifts or inheritance
Consider legal alternatives for savings
Understanding Car Title Transfers in Illinois
In Illinois, a vehicle title proves ownership and lists details such as the VIN, owner name, and any liens. The Illinois Secretary of State (not a DMV) manages all title and registration services across the state.
When Transfers Occur:
Car titles transfer after a sale, gift, or inheritance. The seller signs the title to the buyer following the Illinois Vehicle Code. Plates stay with the seller; buyers must obtain new ones or transfer existing plates.
Required Documents:
Certificate of Title signed by both parties.
Odometer reading for vehicles under 10 years old or under 16,000 lbs.
Odometer disclosure statement (federal requirement).
Proof of liability insurance matching the VIN.
Tax form for private sales or gift certification for exemptions.
Death certificate for inherited transfers.
Key Rules:
New residents must title vehicles within 30 days.
Out-of-state or imported vehicles require a Certificate of Origin and additional forms.
Liens must be cleared before transfer lenders must provide a release letter.
Registration must accompany the title for the vehicle to be legally driven.
If needed, get a Temporary Registration Permit while waiting for plates.
Processing Time:
Mail-in transfers take 20–30 days. Begin immediately after purchase to avoid penalties or delays.
Additional Tips:
Check vehicle history through the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to detect flood, salvage, or theft records.
Dealers use the Electronic Registration and Title System (ERT), while private sales use paper forms.
Trucks over 16,000 lbs and trailers have separate title categories.
Counties near metro areas may require emissions testing before registration.
A clean and accurate title ensures smooth ownership transfer and protects both buyer and seller from legal or financial issues.
Required Documents and Forms for a Smooth Title Transfer in Illinois
Transferring a vehicle title in Illinois requires accurate paperwork and clear signatures. Always use blue or black ink and print legibly to prevent rejections.
Essential Documents:
Original Vehicle Title: Seller signs the back; include buyer’s name, address, sale date, price, and mileage.
Application for Vehicle Transaction (Form VSD 190): Combines title, registration, and duplicate requests. Available online or at Secretary of State facilities.
Proof of Insurance: Card showing policy number, coverage dates, and vehicle details.
Bill of Sale: Includes sale price, date, vehicle description, and both signatures.
Tax Forms:
RUT-50: Private-party sales (6.25% tax rate).
RUT-25: Out-of-state purchases.
Odometer Disclosure Statement: Separate, signed mileage record for vehicles under 10 years old.
Photo ID: Driver’s license or passport.
Emission Test Certificate: Required in metro counties.
Inheritance Transfers: Include death certificate or notarized affidavit.
Out-of-State or Imported Vehicles: Provide Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin or equivalent.
Additional Details:
Lost titles require a $50 replacement via Form VSD 190.
Lienholders must issue written lien release letters before transfer.
Proof of address (utility bill or lease) assists registration.
Co-owners must also sign the title.
Submission Options:
Mail documents to Springfield, IL (check form instructions).
Visit a local Secretary of State office for same-day processing.
Kiosks handle select renewals and title updates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Missing signatures or incorrect VINs.
Using outdated forms.
Failing to pay use tax within 30 days of sale.
Tip: Scan copies for your records and keep originals secure. Accuracy prevents delays and rejected applications.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Car Title Transfer Process in Illinois
Follow these steps to ensure a smooth car title transfer in Illinois:
Seller Completes the Title: Sign the back of the title and include the buyer’s name, address, sale date, price, and mileage (in ink).
Mileage Disclosure: Provide a separate, signed odometer statement for vehicles under ten years old.
Buyer Fills Out Form VSD 190: The Application for Vehicle Transaction covers title and registration. Select the correct option and attach the form.
Pay the Private-Party Tax: Use RUT-50 to calculate 6.25 % of the sale price or fair market value, whichever is higher.
Collect Supporting Documents: Include proof of insurance, bill of sale, and emissions test certificate (if required).
Submit the Application: File in person at a Secretary of State facility or mail to Springfield with ID and payment.
License Plates: Sellers keep their plates. Buyers may transfer existing plates for $25 or purchase new ones for $29 + tax.
Temporary Permit: Obtain a temporary permit for driving while waiting on new plates.
Processing Time: New titles arrive by mail in 20–30 days. Track status online and correct any errors promptly.
Special Cases:
Gifts: Pay a flat fee on the RUT-50 form.
Inheritance: Provide a death certificate or court documents.
Out-of-State Transfers: Complete within 30 days and use RUT-25 for tax.
Check VINs, signatures, and totals carefully errors delay approval. Keep copies for records and verify all details before driving.
Breaking Down the Costs: How Much Does It Cost to Transfer a Car Title in Illinois?
In Illinois, the total car title transfer cost depends on whether you’re transferring plates, buying new ones, or claiming exemptions.
Standard Fees (2025):
Title fee: $165
Plate transfer: $25
New plates: $29 + applicable tax
Title + plate transfer combo: $190
Duplicate title: $50
Correction fee: $15
Temporary permit: About $20
Taxes:
Illinois charges a 6.25% sales tax via Form RUT-50.
$10,000 vehicle → $625 tax
$20,000 vehicle → $1,250 tax
If the sale price is below market value, the fair market price is used instead.
Gift or Exempt Transfers:
Gift tax: $15–$20 (with proof)
Family or charity exemptions apply with documentation.
Additional Notes:
Out-of-state transfers follow the same structure using Form RUT-25.
Counties may add small local fees ($5–$10).
Payment options include cash, check, or card at Secretary of State offices; mail-in checks accepted.
Overall, expect to pay $300–$2,000 total depending on the vehicle’s value and taxes due. Always verify the latest rates through the Illinois Secretary of State before filing.
Navigating Special Scenarios in Title Transfers
Family gifts use RUT-50 flat fee. Pay $15-20. Show ties like birth papers.Inheritance needs death proof. Affidavit for small estates. Co-owner loss lets survivor claim with cert. Out-of-state RUT-25. Tax on time out.Liens need bank release.
RVs, bikes, same path. Weight for mileage. Gifting shifts insurance. Update policy fast. No state gift tax. Federal over $18,000 yearly. $75,000 to son no state hit, IRS form if big.Dave Ramsey says car under half income. Cash buy.Avoid car sales tax with out-of-state setup, check use tax.
Extras per case. Birth for family, court for estates.
Alternatives to Traditional Title Transfers: Simplify and Save
Forming a Montana LLC offers a legal way to avoid Illinois sales tax and emissions testing, saving $5,000–$15,000 on high-value vehicles.
This setup allows permanent plates for older or specialty vehicles, all handled remotely — no Montana residency required.
Eligible vehicles: RVs, UTVs, custom cars, and collector models. Plates typically arrive by mail within days.
Example: One Illinois RV owner reported saving over $8,000 in fees and taxes with a Montana LLC, plus no emissions testing.
Before proceeding, research your state’s rules or consult a tax professional to confirm compliance and long-term savings.
Street Legal Hookup – Why We’re the Best Choice
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Expert Handling of Complex Cases: Our team specializes in tricky titles, like lost documents or custom builds, drawing on years of experience to resolve issues that stump local DMVs.
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Significant Cost Savings Built In: Clients typically save $5,000 to $15,000 compared to standard state fees, thanks to our flat-rate $995 starting price and no hidden charges.
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With Street Legal Hookup, you're not just registering a vehicle you're gaining a reliable partner committed to legal, efficient results. Ready to simplify your setup? Contact us today for a quick consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to transfer a car title to a family member in Illinois?
Sign the title, complete VSD 190 and RUT-50 for exemption. Submit with ID and small fee.
What's the Illinois car title transfer fee?
$165 for title only in 2025.
How do I transfer ownership to another person?
Seller signs title with details. The buyer files forms, pays taxes, and gets new plates.
Is it better to gift or sell a car for $1 in Illinois?
Gifting with exemption saves tax, but proves relationships. A $1 sale may use market value.
Do you have to pay taxes on a gifted vehicle in Illinois?
Exempt from full 6.25%, pay $15-$20.
What is the best way to transfer a car title to a family member?
Gift it, file exemption, avoid market tax.
Conclusion
Fees start $165, taxes push $300 plus. Docs, steps, cases all covered. Alternatives cut costs legally. You hold the full map. Start your title transfer with Street Legal Hookup today. Get plates fast and save big.
Want to learn how much you’ll actually pay for taxes, title, and license fees in Illinois? Read Real Cost of Tax, Title, and License Fees in Illinois.
