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IMPORTANT

REAL ID-compliant identification is now required to fly within the U.S. If you have a passport (or other REAL-compliant document), and are not due to renew your driver license or ID card, you do not need to upgrade right away. 

Alert

There are currently road test cancellations or DMV offices closed for in-person services. See our “CLOSINGS” page for more information.

Titles and Vehicle Ownership

A certificate of title for a vehicle (MV-999) (also known as 'title' or 'pink slip') is a legal document that establishes a person or business as the legal owner of a vehicle. The title certificate is used to transfer ownership from one person to another.
Replace Your Title

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Top Title Transaction

Down Triangle

  • Replace
  • Check Status
  • Change Address
  • Get an Abstract

Vehicle Ownership
Buying, Selling, and Registering

Buy, Sell, or Transfer Vehicle Ownership

Find out what documents you will need to provide proof of sale and ownership if you are buying, selling, or gifting a vehicle.

  • Proof of Sale
  • Proof of Ownership
  • Additional Information

Register a Vehicle

You will need to register your vehicle with the DMV to receive New York State license plates for the first time.

  • Step 1: Insure Your Vehicle
  • Step 2: Prepare Proofs and Fees
  • Step 3: Register and Title Your Vehicle at a DMV Office

Let the Buyer Be Aware

Learn about a vehicle before you spend money for its purchase.

  • Buying from a Dealer
  • Buying From a Private Seller
  • Title Branding

Changes to a Title
Adding, Removing, and Changing Information on a Title

If you have recently bought out the lease on your vehicle, you need to submit proof of your ownership and get a copy of the title that lists you as the owner.

Change Name on Title After Lease Buyout

A "lien" means that someone other than you has a security interest in your vehicle. Find out the steps to take to have someone added or removed as a lienholder on your title.

Add or Remove a Lienholder

Salvage Vehicles
Damaged and Rebuilt

DMV regulations require the DMV to mark or 'brand' a title certificate if a vehicle is 8 model years old or newer and the owner indicated that the vehicle was destroyed or received damage of 75% or more of the retail value of the vehicle at the time the damage occurred. If a salvage vehicle is rebuilt for use on roadways, the DMV must examine it before issuing a new title certificate or registration.

Learn more about Salvage titles

Special Situations
Vehicles Without Titles

Rarely, vehicles may be purchased or obtained without a title. Find out how to get a title or how to establish proof of ownership.

  • Register a Vehicle Bought at a Sheriff or Marshal Auction
  • Abandoned and Unclaimed Vehicles
  • Proof of Ownership is Not Available
  • Register a Custom or Homemade Trailer or Vehicle
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