A person selling their current vehicle or simply wanting to transfer title to another person can do so via the Arkansas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A vehicle owner can complete the process online or at their local DMV office.
Vehicle Title vs. Vehicle Registration
A vehicle title declares that the person owns the vehicle and records the owner's name, address, date of birth, the vehicle's VIN, and the make, model and year. If the owner has a lien on the car, the title remains with the lien holder until the owner pays off the loan. When they do, the lien holder sends the title to the owner.
The vehicle's registration proves that the owner has paid all taxes and fees, and carries the proper insurance to drive the vehicle in Arkansas. The owner renews the vehicle registration annually and keeps it in the car at all times. The owner should not keep the title in their vehicle, but in a secure place.
Car Title Transfer Requirements in Arkansas
To transfer a title in the state of Arkansas, an individual will need:
- Completed title that includes the names of the sellers and buyers, printed, signed and dated in all required locations.
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Bill of sale.
- Proof of vehicle insurance.
- Federal odometer statement.
- Driver's licenses of buyer and seller.
- Money to pay title transfer fees, registration fees and taxes.
Transferring a vehicle title in Arkansas is inexpensive, at only $10. However, the vehicle owner will usually also pay sales tax, registration fees and any applicable local taxes for the vehicle's registration.
How to File a Title Transfer in Arkansas
Arkansas allows vehicle owners to transfer title online via the state's MyDMV website. The Arkansas DMV will verify that their car insurance is valid, that they are eligible to register their vehicle through its VIN and record their information. Vehicle owners should take care when inputting their data – if there is a portion the system doesn't recognize, they'll have to complete the transaction in person at their local DMV office. If all of the information is correct, they'll receive their new title in about two weeks.
If a vehicle owner is uncomfortable with fulfilling the transaction online, they can go in person to their local DMV office. They can find the location by using the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration's office locator. DMV offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can schedule an appointment via the agency's website or call 501-682-4692.
Getting a Duplicate Arkansas Title
The last owner on record can apply for a duplicate title from the DMV. If more than one person owns the vehicle, all of them must sign it. If it still has a lien on it, the lien holder can complete a Permission to Issue a Replacement Title form. The title will then go to the lien holder.
Applicants for a duplicate title will also need to show identifying information, including a vehicle registration certificate, a title number, a license plate number or VIN. A replacement title is $10.00. Applicants can go to a local state revenue office or send their application and fee to the Charles D. Ragland Taxpayer Services Center, Room 1040, 1900 West 7th St., Little Rock, Arkansas 72201. Replacement titles take about three weeks to process.
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Writer Bio
Michelle Nati is an associate editor and writer who has reported on legal, criminal and government news for PasadenaNow.com and Complex Media. She holds a B.A. in Communications and English from Niagara University.