You gather your notarized Kentucky title, proof of insurance, and ID. You head to the county clerk’s office. You complete the assignment and pay fees like $9 transfer and 6% tax. But older titles before 2000 demand extra forms—what’s next for yours?
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Key Takeaways
- Submit notarized Kentucky title, proof of insurance, and photo ID to County Clerk’s office.
- Complete TC96-182 form for titles issued before February 2000.
- All “and” owners must sign and notarize the title assignment.
- Pay $9 title fee plus 6% usage tax on purchase price.
- Transfer within 15 days to avoid penalties.
Documents Needed for Your Kentucky Title Transfer
To complete your Kentucky title transfer, you’ll need the original Kentucky Certificate of Title with the assignment portion properly filled out and notarized by all required parties. Present proof of current Kentucky liability insurance in your name, effective within the last 45 days. Use a completed TC96-182 form for titles issued before February 2000; newer titles require the built-in assignment and transaction record. Provide valid picture ID and Social Security or Federal ID Number for all parties. For “and” owners, get all signatures notarized; “or” needs one. Essential tips: Verify liens released. Common mistakes: Skipping notarization or insurance delays processing.[99 words]
How Do You Complete Title Assignment and Notarization?
- Sign the back of the title exactly as it appears on the front; get your signature notarized.
- If multiple owners with “and,” all must sign and notarize for validity.
- For pre-February 2000 titles, complete TC96-182 form alongside the title.
- Notarize both seller’s and buyer’s signatures; present insurance proof and photo ID at the County Clerk’s office.
Your Complete Step-by-Step Transfer Process
Once you’ve gathered the proper documentation and completed the notarization steps, you’re ready to submit everything to your local County Clerk’s office to finalize the transfer. Both you and the seller should attend to avoid delays in the title transfer timeline. Settle outstanding property taxes first—you’re liable from January 1 of the tax year.
| Step | Requirement | Common Mistakes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Submit notarized title & TC96-182 (pre-2000 titles) | Skipping notary |
| 2 | Provide KY insurance proof & photo ID | Using expired card |
| 3 | Pay $9 fee + 6% tax | Ignoring liens/taxes |
| 4 | Out-of-state: Add TC96-167 affidavit | Forgetting form |
This guarantees smooth processing.
What You’ll Pay: Fees, Taxes, and Payment Methods
- $2 notary fee per signature on documents.
- $21 for a new license plate (or prorated renewal).
- $22 lien filing fee, if applicable.
- Service fees on cards: 1.5% debit, 2.75% credit.
Pay with cash, money orders, checks (with KY ID), or cards.
Transferring Out-of-State Vehicles, Inherited Titles, or Repossessed Cars
Transfer an out-of-state vehicle in Kentucky by submitting a completed TC96-182 form with a notarized title or equivalent documents from the originating state.
For inherited titles, you’ll need a death certificate or probate documents; if the title shows “and” between names, all living owners must sign.
When handling repossessed cars, lienholders must provide the TC96-192 affidavit, TC96-182 application, and security agreement.
Foreign-titled vehicles require customs and sheriff inspections with necessary customs papers for Kentucky titling.
For police impound purchases, you need the TC96-182 form and a Bill of Sale on law enforcement letterhead.
Each scenario demands proper ownership verification and vehicle registration documentation to complete your transfer successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Both Parties Have to Be Present to Transfer a Car Title in KY?
You don’t need both parties physically present together. The seller must have their signature notarized on the title’s back, but if you can’t attend, you’re able to use a Power of Attorney to authorize the other party to sign on your behalf.
How Much Does a Title Transfer Cost in KY?
You’ll pay $17 title transfer fee plus 6% road usage tax on the vehicle’s purchase price or NADA value during the title transfer process. Add $2 notary per signature, $9 title application, and possible lien fees.
How to Gift a Car to a Family Member in KY?
To gift a car in Kentucky, you’ll sign the title before a notary, write “gift” as the price, complete a Bill of Sale, and submit documents to your County Clerk. You’ll avoid gift tax and sales tax, but the recipient must provide proof of insurance and valid ID.
How to Buy a Car From a Private Seller in KY?
Get the seller to sign the title before a notary, get a bill of sale, and arrange a vehicle inspection. Take it, your KY insurance proof, and ID to the County Clerk; pay 6% tax and fees.
Conclusion
You’ve got everything you need to transfer your Kentucky vehicle title smoothly: gather your notarized Certificate of Title, proof of insurance, ID, and TC96-182 if pre-2000. Head to your County Clerk’s office within 15 days, pay the $9 fee plus 6% tax, and you’re set. Remember the adage: “An ounce of preparation is worth a pound of cure”—do it right, and you’ll avoid delays or penalties.
