How to Apply for a Certificate of Title in Pennsylvania: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Whether you’re purchasing a new or used car or just moved to Pennsylvania, you must apply for a new vehicle title to drive legally. The Pennsylvania application for a certificate of title has specific requirements.
This guide to the Pennsylvania title application details the required documentation and how to apply. It also provides information about finding cheap car insurance in Pennsylvania to meet other state requirements.
Introduction to Certificate of Title in Pennsylvania
A certificate of title is a vehicle ownership document that includes information about the owner and lienholder. It can help transfer ownership when buying or selling motor vehicles.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) regulates vehicle records, including titles and registrations. Whenever you change your title, transfer ownership, or request a duplicate title, you must follow specific processes, which may include submitting specific forms and documents.
Who Needs a Certificate of Title in Pennsylvania?
Any vehicle garaged in the state requires the owner to have a Pennsylvania certificate of title. If you’ve purchased a vehicle or moved from another state with a vehicle, you must apply for a certificate of title in Pennsylvania.
Titles are also required for trucks, truck tractors, motor homes, trailers, farm vehicles, and some other specialty vehicles. ATVs, boats, and snowmobiles must also be registered, which is handled by the Fish & Boat Commission or the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Required Documents for Title Application in Pennsylvania
To apply for a vehicle title in Pennsylvania, you must submit documentation proving you rightfully claim vehicle ownership. You should bring either a valid Pennsylvania title with the assignment completed to you (for private sales) or a valid title from another state (if you’re moving to Pennsylvania).
If you purchase your car from a dealership, you may use a manufacturer’s certificate of origin instead of a valid title. However, dealerships should be submitting title application forms on your behalf. To register your vehicle at the same time, you’ll also need to provide proof of Pennsylvania car insurance.
Application Process for Certificate of Title in Pennsylvania
As mentioned above, dealerships should submit title and registration paperwork for you. However, private sales have a different title application process that you must complete yourself.
After finalizing your purchase, you must submit the current vehicle title with the assignment completed to you. The assignment should include your information as the new owner, an odometer statement, and the buyer's and seller's signatures.
You can bring all of your documents to PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services or use an authorized agent or messenger (a private business that may charge a service fee to complete the process for you). You will also be responsible for paying a title fee, which is typically $67 but may vary.
Special Considerations
Transferring Titles for Out-of-State Vehicles
If you’re moving to Pennsylvania from another state, you need to bring your current out-of-state title and registration to get your new title. If you haven’t owned your vehicle for at least six months, you’ll also need to provide proof that you paid sales tax in the other state. Otherwise, you may be responsible for paying the 6% Pennsylvania sales tax.
Dealing With Vehicles With Existing Liens
Pennsylvania uses an Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) system. Vehicle owners with existing liens will not receive a paper copy of their title until the lien is paid off. When the lien is paid off, the lender must submit a lien release. PennDOT will automatically mail you a paper copy.
Resolving Common Application Errors
The most common errors on the Pennsylvania title application are simple mistakes, such as a misspelled name, incorrect VIN, missing lien information, or alterations.
Take your time filling out the application to avoid simple mistakes. Double-check spelling and numbers, and avoid using whiteout. If you make a mistake, simply fill out a new form.
Processing Times and Tracking
The processing times for vehicle titles in Pennsylvania will vary depending on the title type and the department's workload. Most original and duplicate titles are received in four to six weeks.
Titles with liens will not be mailed until the lender submits a lien release. Then, the department mails the paper copy the next business day.
Additional Resources
The PennDot website provides Pennsylvania drivers with information about vehicle titles, registration, Pennsylvania auto insurance requirements, and more.
You can only receive a title application form from authorized PennDOT agents. However, you can find detailed online instructions to help you fill it out. You can also find a list of supplementary forms and title requirements.
Ensure You’re Properly Covered: Compare Car Insurance Quotes Now!
All drivers must provide proof of insurance to register their vehicle when they apply for a new title. Proof of insurance includes insurance cards or policy documents. Your policy must meet Pennsylvania’s minimum car insurance requirements.
Insurance prices change daily. The best way to find an affordable policy is to compare your options. EverQuote can provide you with free custom quotes from Pennsylvania insurance companies.