Navigating the Road to Getting Your Car Title in Arizona - EZ Title & Registration
Introduction
Whether you’re a prospective buyer or a seller – or both – EZ Title & Registration wants consumers to know steps they can take to protect themselves and what is involved when selling or purchasing a used vehicle.
Requirements for Getting a Car Title in Arizona
1. Proof of Ownership: Your proof of ownership could be a manufacturer’s certificate of origin (like the cars birth certificate, when its new), a current title from Arizona or out of state, or a ADOT Title Transfer Bill of Sale, for electronic titles that are already titled in Arizona. Keep in mind Arizona no longer requires a notary on the certificate of title, but some states do!
2. Application Form: A Title and Registration Application is available but it is not required for walk in customers. If you are mailing your paperwork in, you would want to have this form properly completed and included in your documents.
3. Identification: Your driver license, ID card, Passport, or other form of ID is required to be presented when you come in for your title transfer.
4. Vehicle Inspection: A physical inspection is not usually needed when you do a title transfer.
5. Lien Release: If the current owner was making payments on the vehicle, there may be a lien on it which would need to be released electronically or on the existing title before you can complete the title transfer.
Emissions Testing: Emissions testing may be required before you can register the vehicle. Find out more information on emissions testing on this page.
6. Emissions Testing: Emissions testing may be required before you can register the vehicle. Find out more information on emissions testing on this page.
Steps to Obtain a Car Title
1. Gather Required Documents: You’ll need the current title, proof of ID, and in some cases the emissions test certificate.
2. Complete Application Form: Remember, the application is not required when you are coming in person, but will be needed if you are mailing in your paperwork.
3. Submit Application: We would love to see you in person, but if that not possible you can mail everything to one of our locations.
4. Pay Fees: You will need to pay for your new title, registration, and in cases where you bought the vehicle from an out of state dealer, sales (use) tax may be required. Fees are dependent on the vehicle, so contact us if you need a quote. We accept all major credit and debit cards, business checks, and cash.
5. Wait for Processing: In person, there is usually little to no wait time. If you mail in your docs, we can usually turn it around in a couple days after its received.
Tips and Considerations
1. Double-Check Documents: Be sure to review all documents carefully before submission to avoid delays or rejections. Check our this car buying checklist to helpful tips!
2. Be Prepared for Fees: Registration fees are higher for newer vehicle and those with a higher list price. Arizona calculates its fees differently than other states, so be prepared for varying registration fees and sales tax that may be due if you bought your car from an out of state dealer.
3. Follow Up if Necessary: We are always available by phone or email, and will keep you update on the status of your transaction if you mail it in.
4. Personalized Plate: When you do your title transfer, it’s the perfect time to add a special plate background or personalization. Our team can help you select the best background and ensure your personalization choice is available!
Conclusion
We hope this information helps you to be more prepared for your title transaction. Its important to verify the documents, match them up to the vehicle, and make sure all signatures are in order to avoid any surprises.
Additional Resources
Check out our website for more helpful information and as always, contact us for any questions or help you might need!