📜 Arizona Title Legal Statuses
When multiple owners are listed on an Arizona vehicle title, the specific word between their names—"OR," "AND," or "AND/OR"—is the most important part of the document. This "Legal Status" determines who has the authority to sell the car, who needs to sign the paperwork, and what happens to the vehicle if an owner passes away.
1. "OR" (Joint Tenancy)
This is the most flexible and common status for couples and family members.
Authority: Either owner can act independently. Only one signature is required to sell, transfer, or trade in the vehicle.
Death of an Owner: If one owner passes away, the surviving owner automatically retains full authority. They can sell the vehicle or transfer the title into their name alone without a death certificate or probate.
Best For: Spouses who want maximum convenience.
2. "AND" (Tenancy in Common)
This status provides "Checked and Balanced" ownership.
Authority: Both owners must sign for any transaction, including selling the car or adding a lien.
Death of an Owner: This is the most complex status during an inheritance. If an owner passes away, their interest in the vehicle does not automatically go to the other owner. It must be handled through Probate or a Non-Probate Affidavit (if the estate is small enough).
Best For: Business partners or non-married co-owners who want to ensure neither party can sell the vehicle without the other's consent.
3. "AND/OR" (Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship)
This is a hybrid status that combines control while alive with ease of transfer after death.
Authority: While both owners are living, both signatures are required for any sale or transfer.
Death of an Owner: If one owner passes away, the survivor gains full ownership. However, unlike the "OR" status, the survivor must provide a certified death certificate to the MVD to sign alone or transfer the title.
Best For: Families who want to ensure both parties agree on a sale now, but want to avoid probate later.
📋 Comparison Table
| Legal Status | Signatures Required to Sell | If an Owner Passes Away... |
| OR | Just One | Survivor acts independently; no extra paperwork needed. |
| AND | Both | Deceased's interest goes to probate or heirs. |
| AND/OR | Both | Survivor acts alone with a Death Certificate. |
⚖️ How to Choose or Change Your Status
To set or change your legal status, all owners must sign the Title and Registration Application (Form 96-0236) in person at our office or in front of a notary.
Pro-Tip: The Beneficiary Designation (TOD)
Regardless of which status you choose, Arizona law (ARS 28-2055) allows you to name a Beneficiary for your vehicle. This works like a "Transfer on Death" (TOD) for a bank account. It ensures your car goes exactly where you want it to without the cost of probate. Ask us for Form 96-0561 during your next visit.
Why Visit EZ Title?
Instant Updates: We update your legal status in the MVD system immediately.
Expert Guidance: Not sure which status fits your situation? We’ll explain the legal implications for your specific case.
One-Stop Shop: We can handle the title transfer and the beneficiary designation in a single 15-minute visit.
Need to update your title? Visit any of our locations today and get it handled the EZ way.

