How to Transfer a Car Title in Illinois

A Quick Guide to Illinois Title Transfer

Step 1: Get the completed title from the transferor.

In any state, the first step in transferring a title is to obtain the completed title from the transferor. The VIN, mileage, the transferor’s information, your information, and both parties’ signatures should all be included in the original title.

Step 2: Ensure that the information on the title is correct.

To simplify the process of transferring your Illinois title, ask yourself the following questions while inspecting the new title: 

• Are there any unsigned co-owners, such as a friend or family member? 
• Are the signatures identical to those on the title? 
• Is the VIN mentioned on the title identical to the one on the vehicle? 
• Is the title invalid due to mark-throughs, erasures, or correction tape? If you have an official copy of an amended title, you must provide it. 
• Is the mileage information correct? 
• Is the data legible?

Step 3: Create a bill of sale.

Although not required, most people create a bill of sale when completing a substantial transaction. This document acts as a record of the transaction and, in some instances, may provide legal protection and serve as proof of ownership. Creating a bill of sale takes little time, and numerous free templates are available online.

Step 4: Make the seller submit an Odometer Disclosure Statement.

Due to the Federal Truth in Mileage Act, all states require sellers to document vehicle mileage when selling a vehicle. While most states accept the completed title or bill of sale as proof of mileage, Illinois demands completely different paperwork. 

The seller must provide the buyer with a written mileage statement, occasionally referred to as a seller’s report, before the transaction occurs. According to Illinois law, this document must include the following:

• Date
• Both parties’ names, addresses, and signatures 
• Exact mileage
• Car color, make, model, and year
• Car identification number

Step 5: Submit an Application for Vehicle Transaction (Form VSD 190).

For almost all motor vehicle services, the Secretary of State’s office needs drivers to complete an Application for a Vehicle Transaction form. You’ll bubble in the service you require in part labeled “Type of transaction.” 

The SOS streamlines these processes by utilizing a single form rather than five, allowing drivers to complete all required paperwork in one sitting. Simply put, it’s a more convenient way to handle an Illinois title transfer. Additionally, the cost of this form is determined by the service(s) requested.

Step 6: Fill out a form for  Private Party Vehicle Tax Transaction.

Tax Form RUT-50 should be filed, and the 6.25% state sales tax should be paid to the county tax collector with private car sales. Additional county taxes and title transfer fees are not included in this rate. The entire tax amount depends on the model year and purchase price. Automobiles worth more than $15,000 are taxed differently. 

Bear in mind that the tax rate is determined by the vehicle’s “reasonable value.” Simply put, even if you purchase a car for significantly less than its market value, you will still be taxed at the market value rate. This document calculates the vehicle’s tax liability based on the purchase price or fair market value assessed by a licensed dealer.

Step 7: Pay the Illinois title transfer fees and other applicable charges.

Transferring a car to Illinois is too expensive. A standard vehicle transfer costs just over $300 and may be higher if additional paperwork is required. The vehicle title is $150; the SOS will add another $151 for registration and tag.                                

If you need to update your name in the SOS database, an extra $15 will be charged. Transferring vehicles from a deceased joint owner to a single-living owner will be assessed a $15 application cost, a $50 title fee, and a $3 registration fee.

Step 8: Apply for a plate transfer or a new license plate.

Transferring your license plate is simple. Just accomplish the same Application for Vehicle Transaction as transferring your title and select the “Title and transfer” box. Transferring your plates is $25, which will be added to the registration cost if you do so simultaneously. 

To apply for a new license plate, complete the Application for Vehicle Transaction form and check the “Title and plates” or “Plates alone” option. A new plate costs $29, including tax.

Step 9: Wait for your title to arrive.

It usually takes about six weeks to receive your new title by mail. If it has been more than six weeks since you last saw your pink slip, call your local SOS office to inquire about locating your title or acquiring a copy.

(Related: How to Get a Tanker Endorsement)

Tips for a Car Title Transfer in Illinois

1. Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork

Before you begin the transfer process, ensure you have all the required documents. How to transfer a car title? What requirements? You should be able to answer these questions.

2. Check for any liens or outstanding issues

Before you sell or transfer a vehicle, ensure there are no liens or other issues. These could prevent the transfer from going through smoothly. If there are any outstanding issues, you’ll need to resolve these before the transfer.

3. Accurately fill out all forms

It’s important to accurately fill out all the forms required for the title transfer. Any mistakes or missing information can slow down the process or cause delays. Double-check all forms before submitting them to ensure accuracy.

4. Know the fees for an Illinois Title Transfer

There are fees for transferring a car title in Illinois. This includes a title fee, registration fee, and any taxes due on the transfer. Make sure you know these fees beforehand so you can budget accordingly.

5. Submit the paperwork on time

Submit everything to the Secretary of State’s office as soon as possible. This will help ensure that the transfer is processed on time. It also allows you to get your new title and registration quickly.