Is Car Registration Transferable?

Car registration is one of those tasks we all know we have to handle—but when it comes to buying or selling a vehicle, many people wonder: can registration be transferred? The answer depends on your situation and your state’s laws. Let’s walk through everything you need to know in a calm and simple way.

What Does It Mean to Transfer Registration?

Transferring registration means that the registration record for a vehicle is moved from the current owner’s name into the new owner’s name. This is common when:

• A car is sold privately

• A vehicle is gifted or inherited

• You buy a used car from a family member

It’s important to understand that transferring registration is different from transferring the title. The title proves ownership; registration allows the vehicle to be legally driven on the road.

Can You Transfer Registration From One Person to Another?

In most states, registration cannot be directly transferred between two people unless it’s within the same family. Usually, when someone sells a vehicle, they must cancel their registration, and the new owner must apply for a new one under their name.

Some states, however, allow transfers between spouses, parents, or children. It helps to check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for state-specific rules.

What Happens When You Sell a Car?

When selling your car privately, you typically:

• Remove your license plates

• Sign over the title to the buyer

• Submit a notice of sale or release of liability to the DMV

• Cancel your registration or transfer it to another vehicle you own

The buyer must then register the car in their own name, often within 10 to 30 days of purchase.

Can You Transfer Registration Between Vehicles?

Yes, in most cases, you can transfer your current registration to another vehicle you own or just purchased. This is common when:

• You sell your old car and buy a new one

• You upgrade your vehicle but want to keep the same license plate

There’s usually a small fee involved, and the DMV will verify that both vehicles are owned by the same person.

Can You Transfer Registration Between States?

No, registration is not transferable between states. If you move to a new state, you must:

• Register your vehicle in the new state

• Surrender your previous registration

• Often get a new license plate and update your title

Most states require this within 30 to 60 days after establishing residency.