You’re purchasing a vehicle in Idaho, and you’ve got 30 days to transfer that title into your name—or face a $20 late-filing penalty. The process requires the seller’s signature on the original title, your personal information, and several supporting documents submitted to your county assessor’s office or DMV. But here’s where it gets tricky: the specific fees, required forms, and additional documentation depend on whether you’re buying from a private party, dealing with liens, or transferring an out-of-state title.
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Key Takeaways
- Seller signs title with odometer reading, sale date, and price; buyer adds info and signs.
- Submit signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance, ID, and ITD 3337 form at county DMV.
- Complete transfer within 30 days to avoid $20 late fee.
- Pay $14 base title fee plus 6% sales tax and registration fees.
- Provide VIN inspection for out-of-state vehicles.
Idaho Title Transfer Steps
To transfer a vehicle title in Idaho, the seller signs the original title over to you, noting the odometer reading, sale date, and price, while you add your personal information and signature. Gather your title transfer checklist: original signed title, bill of sale, odometer disclosure statement, and fees ($14 base). Register at a county DMV within 30 days to avoid a $20 late fee. For out-of-state vehicles, complete a VIN inspection and show proof of insurance. Common mistakes include missing deadlines or incomplete disclosures—double-check documents before submitting.[99 words]
Required Documents
Follow this document checklist for title requirements.
Provide proof of VIN inspection if the vehicle comes from out of state or lacks a current Idaho title.
> Provide proof of VIN inspection if the vehicle comes from out of state or lacks a current Idaho title.
Submit the $14 title transfer fee with your paperwork.
For inherited vehicles, you’ll need the original title signed by the deceased or estate representative, plus proof of insurance for registration.
Complete the process at your county DMV office within 30 days to avoid penalties.
Fees and Costs
- Check fee exemptions for inherited vehicles or specific cases at your county DMV.
- Use accepted payment methods like cash, check, or card at the office.
- Budget for county admin fees, which vary and add to the base title fee.
Duplicate and Lost Titles
Follow the duplicate title process by mailing the form or visiting a county DMV office.
File promptly to sidestep lost title implications like ownership verification delays or registration issues.
Rush service costs an extra $26. The original title cancels upon issuance.
Out-of-State, Inherited, and Gift Transfers
- For vehicle inheritance, present the original title signed by the deceased or estate, death certificate, and proof of insurance.
- For gifted vehicles, use a bill of sale, odometer disclosure (if under 10 years old), and Sales Tax Exemption Certificate for family transfers.
- Complete all with your ID, SSN, and fees to title before registering.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Transfer a Car Title in Idaho?
Sign the car title with seller noting odometer, date, and price; you add your info and sign for ownership change. Submit title, bill of sale, odometer statement, VIN inspection (if needed), and $14 fee at DMV within 30 days.
How Much Is It to Transfer a Car Title in Idaho?
Like the DMV line you’ve braved before, you’ll pay $14 title fees base for Idaho’s transfer process. Add $5 VIN inspection out-of-state, county admin fees ($5-$9), registration, 6% tax; $20 late penalty after 30 days.
Does a Title Need to Be Notarized in Idaho?
No, you don’t need to notarize a title for most title ownership transfers in Idaho. Follow notarization requirements only for Power of Attorney or deceased owner cases; sign properly per title instructions.
What Is the Best Way to Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member?
You’ve heard gifting skips taxes, and it’s true for eligible family members like parents or siblings. Sign the title with odometer reading; complete Sales Tax Exemption Certificate for legal requirements. Register at your county DMV within 30 days.
Conclusion
You’re steering through a straightforward process, yet timing matters enormously. You’ll gather documents—the signed title, bill of sale, proof of insurance—then head to your county DMV within 30 days. You’ll pay the $14 transfer fee plus registration costs, complete your application, submit everything promptly. You’re protecting yourself legally while avoiding penalties; you’re securing ownership while establishing clear liability. The effort’s minimal; the consequences of delay aren’t.
