How to Transfer Car Titles in Illinois

by Faizah Imani
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a car in a car show image by Gary from Fotolia.com

A car title is needed to prove who owns the rights to a vehicle. When you have purchased a vehicle from another individual or received the vehicle as a gift, the state of Illinois has a process in place to help you legally assume ownership of the vehicle. In order to assume ownership, the original owner must complete the reverse side of the original car title. Once he gives you the completed title, you are well on your way to becoming the legal owner of the vehicle, but you will need to file some additional paper work in order to receive a new title.

Step 1

Ensure that the information the seller has entered on the back of the original car title is accurate and complete. It should include the name of the individual the title is being transferred to, the mileage (odometer) reading, and the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Both the buyer and the seller must sign and date the back of the original car title.

Step 2

Obtain a copy of form VSD 190 (Application For Vehicle Transaction) from the Illinois Secretary of State. If you would like a copy of this form mailed to you, call (800) 252-8980.

Step 3

Obtain form RUT-50, pertaining to vehicle use tax. You can obtain a copy of this form either by visiting the Illinois Department of Revenue directly or by phoning (800) 356-6302 anytime (24 hours per day), and providing your mailing address.

Step 4

Complete forms VSD 190 and RUT-50 after you receive them. Be sure that the information you place on the forms matches the information on the back of your vehicle title.

Step 5

Submit the completed VSD 190 and RUT-50 forms, along with the required $95.00 titling fee, in person to your nearest Illinois Secretary of State facility. (You can find the one nearest you by going to the web site, cyberdriveillinois.com, and clicking on "Nearest Secretary of State Facility.") Or, if you would prefer, you can mail the forms to the following address:

Secretary of State Vehicle Services Department 501 South 2nd Street, Room 014 Springfield, IL 62756

Step 6

Wait to receive your updated title in the mail.

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