Vehicle Registration

Transferring Vehicle Ownership in Kentucky

3 min read

When you buy, sell, or gift a vehicle in Kentucky, transferring ownership properly is critical for legal and registration purposes. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) handles all title transfers, and the process differs slightly depending on the nature of the transfer.

Buyer and Seller Responsibilities

Whether you are the buyer or seller, you must ensure the vehicle title is accurately completed and signed. Kentucky requires the original title, not a photocopy, with these key elements filled out:

Buyer’s and seller’s printed names and signatures
Date of sale
Purchase price
Odometer disclosure (for vehicles under 20 years old)

As the buyer, you must visit your local County Clerk’s Office to register the vehicle and complete the title transfer within 15 days of the sale. Failing to do so may result in penalties.

Required Documents

To complete a vehicle title transfer in Kentucky, bring the following to your County Clerk’s Office:

Original title with completed transfer section
Photo ID (KY driver's license or other accepted ID)
Proof of insurance meeting Kentucky minimum requirements
Completed Application for Kentucky Certificate of Title/Registration (Form TC 96-182)
Lien release, if applicable
Payment for applicable title and registration fees

You can download the Kentucky DMV forms before visiting your local office to save time.

Title Transfer Fees

Fees vary based on the transaction but typically include:

Title fee: $9
Usage tax: 6% of the sale price or vehicle's trade-in value
Registration fee (if applicable): Varies by vehicle
Notary fee (if notarization is needed): May apply

You can review Kentucky DMV fees for more detailed pricing information.

Gifting a Vehicle

If you're gifting a vehicle to a family member (spouse, parent, child, sibling), Kentucky waives the usage tax. Still, a properly completed title and Form TC 96-182 are required. Mark "gift" on the form and include proof of the relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage license.

Out-of-State Transfers

If you’re transferring a vehicle into Kentucky from another state, you must:

Surrender the out-of-state title
Provide a certified vehicle inspection (done at your local sheriff’s office)
Show proof of insurance
Pay the usage tax based on vehicle value

The process is completed at your County Clerk’s Office, similar to in-state transfers.

Vehicle Sales to a Dealer

If you sell your vehicle to a licensed dealer, the dealer will handle the title transfer paperwork. Always keep a copy of the bill of sale for your records and remove the license plates.

Updating Your Address or Name

If you're transferring ownership and need to update your personal information, such as after a move or name change, check out Updating Your Address on a Kentucky Driver's License and Name Change Procedures for Kentucky Driver's License.

Where to Complete the Transfer

Transfers are completed in person at your local County Clerk’s Office, not at the DMV licensing branches. Use this resource to find Kentucky DMV Locations and Hours.

Make sure to verify your county’s specific requirements or call ahead to check if an appointment is needed.