How to Transfer a Car Title in Colorado

While anyone might be allowed to drive a particular vehicle, the car’s title proves who owns it. If the car is paid off, then the title will be with the owner. In the event that the car is not paid off, the bank will hold the title, and the owner will have a certificate that stands in for a title for insurance purposes and state registration. Because a title proves ownership, it must be transferred each time the car is sold, or when it is given as a gift, or when it is inherited. In the state of Colorado, transferring a car title is actually relatively simple, and requires only a few basic steps.

Steps to transferring a car title in Colorado

While the steps required to transfer a car title in Colorado aren’t complicated, it is essential that they are all completed correctly.

Step 1: Get the title

First, make sure you get the title from the seller. The seller should sign and date it, and you also need information about the amount you paid for the car, as well as the odometer reading and your name and address.

Step 2: Check emissions requirements

If your county requires emissions inspections, you will need to obtain certification.

Step 3: Get a bill of sale

In some instances, you’ll also need the seller to issue a bill of sale. This applies if you (the buyer) have to drive the car for a time before registering it and after buying it, or if the title doesn’t allow space enough for the odometer reading. It’s also a good idea if you want proof of sale.

Common mistakes

  • Not getting a bill of sale if necessary.
  • Not having emissions inspected if necessary.
  • Not verifying that the seller completed all the fields on the title before taking ownership.

For buyers

Once the sale is completed, buyers will need to take a few additional steps.

  • You need to print and complete the Application for Title and/or Registration.
  • If you will jointly own the car with another person, you need to complete the Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship Acknowledgement of Intent (it’s part of the title application form).
  • You need to have proof of insurance on the car.
  • You must have proof of ID.
  • Bring all of this information, along with the title, to the Colorado DMV office. You’ll need to pay the transfer fee and taxes, all of which vary by county within the state. You must contact your local DMV office to determine the costs.

Gifting and inheriting a car

The steps required for gifting (or receiving a gift) of a car, or inheriting a car are pretty much the same as for buying a used car from a private seller. The only real difference is that those inheriting a car will need to show a death certificate in addition to the title and the title transfer form at the DMV.

For more information about how to transfer a car title in Colorado, visit the state’s DMV website.


The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Need Help With Your Car?

Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2,000 U.S. cities. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair.

GET A QUOTE

Related articles

How to Transfer a Car Title in Vermont
In In the state of Vermont, all changes in vehicle ownership must be accompanied by a change in the name on the title. The title transfer process is relatively simple and straightforward, but there are several steps that must be...
How to Transfer a Car Title in Wisconsin
The The state of Wisconsin requires that the title to a vehicle be transferred anytime there is a change in ownership. This would include buying or selling the car, inheriting a car, and donating or gifting a car. There are...
Disabled Driver Laws and Permits in Colorado
Colorado Colorado offers several options for drivers with disabilities. These include short-term, long-term, and permanent placards, and permanent license plates, all of which entitle you to certain parking privileges. How do I know if I am eligible for a placard...

Related questions

Turn signals not working
In my experience, I have come across a number of vehicles, such as with your Chevy Colorado, where multiple light bulbs have gone out at once. Or times where a bulb or two was previously out but only noticeable when...
The power locks are not working on three of the doors
As unlikely as it may be, you could have three failed door motors; it has happened to me in the past. However, fuses, relays, a master switch, or the BCM could also be at fault. Check all fuses/relays (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-lock-relay-replacement) and...
Rough Idle Solutions
Hi There, Although there is no way to guarantee what the cause may be, what you are describing sounds much like what happens when the idle air control valve (IAC) is not working properly. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement)...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com