How to Complete a Georgia Application for Title: A Step-by-Step Guide
Need a new or replacement vehicle title in Georgia? The Georgia application for a title is a simple process to complete after you buy a vehicle or to replace an existing title. However, there are certain requirements you must meet.
Use our guide to complete the Georgia application for title.
Overview of the Vehicle Title in Georgia
A motor vehicle title, also known as a certificate of title, provides proof of ownership for vehicles. When buying and selling a car in Georgia, titles simplify the transfer of ownership. Lienholders also use vehicle titles to protect their interests. Georgia law requires titles for vehicles that are a 1986 model or newer.
Whether you’re buying a car, selling a car, or requesting a replacement title, you’ll need to understand the title application for Georgia. Depending on your needs, you must meet certain requirements and provide specific documentation, including other forms needed to sell a car in Georgia.
Key Players in the Title Application Process
Georgia recognizes the difference between a vehicle’s legal owner and the registered owner. The legal owner is the person who holds the title to the vehicle and is responsible for maintaining the proper ownership of the vehicle. The registered owner is responsible for the car’s daily use and is liable for any situation involving the car.
If you have a loan on your vehicle, your title will also list the lienholder. When you finish paying off your loan, the lienholder is responsible for providing you with a lien release. You can then use the lien release to fill out the application for a title in Georgia and get a new title.
Insurance companies may also confirm the legal owner of a vehicle when you sign up for a car insurance policy or when you file a claim. If you are not listed on the Georgia car title, you might not have an insurable interest in the vehicle and an insurer may deny your claims.
Steps To Complete the Georgia Application for Title
After you buy a car in a private sale in Georgia, you have seven days to complete the GA application for title and bring it to your county tag office. You will need the following:
- A valid Georgia driver’s license or identification card
- The car’s original title with the assignment completed to you and no liens listed (for vehicles 1985 or older without a title, a bill of sale is required)
- A completed title application form for GA
- Proof of insurance
- An inspection certificate
You can fill out the title application online or print it out and bring it with you. The title application includes vehicle information such as VIN, make and model, current mileage, and other details. You will also need to provide your information and any lienholder information.
Types of Titles in Georgia
Vehicle owners can apply for two different types of titles: originals and duplicates. You can apply for a duplicate title, also called a replacement title, if your original is lost, stolen, or damaged. You will still be required to fill out the original title application for a replacement.
The only difference between an original title and a duplicate title is that the duplicate will have a notation that it is a replacement title.
Title Fees and Processing Timelines
The title fee in Georgia is $18. You will need to pay a $20 license plate fee as well if you are also trying to register your vehicle. You’re also subject to a title ad valorem tax that varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
If you’re only trying to replace your title, the replacement title fee is $8.
You will have seven days from the date of a private sale to apply for a new title. If you purchase your vehicle from a dealership, the dealership is responsible for submitting the title application within 30 days of your purchase.
The state typically mails titles seven to 10 business days after you submit your application. However, some locations, such as the Atlanta DMV, may offer expedited title services for an extra fee.
The Role of Insurance in the Title Transfer Process
You must provide proof of insurance to complete a Georgia title transfer. Georgia requires liability insurance, including:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability for one person in an accident
- $50,000 bodily injury liability for two or more people in an accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident.
When you go to your county tag office to transfer ownership of the vehicle, you will need to provide proof that your car insurance meets or exceeds these minimum coverage limits.
Review the insurance requirements of your state:
Make Sure You’re Covered — Compare Car Insurance Plans Now!
Did you just buy a vehicle in Georgia? It’s time to apply for a new title, which means you need to provide proof of insurance for your new vehicle. Coverage options will vary by ZIP code and driver profile. Use EverQuote’s free online quote comparison tool to compare custom options from Georgia car insurance companies now.
FAQs
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Premiums are sourced from over 30,000 zip codes across 200 insurance companies. We estimate premiums based on public filings for policies seeking 50/100 in liability with $500 deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. Estimated rates are based on a 35-year-old single female with a good credit score and no history of accidents or violations driving a 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE. We partner with Quadrant Information Services to source our data and assume no unique benefits or discounts are applied for these rates (unless otherwise stated). Your own rates may be different.