How To Transfer a Car Title in Wisconsin 2026
Transferring a motor vehicle title in Wisconsin is a legal obligation governed by Wis. Stat. § 342.15, which mandates that the transferee apply for a new certificate of title immediately upon taking delivery of the vehicle. Noncompliance may result in a forfeiture of up to $200. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), Division of Motor Vehicles, oversees the administration of all title transactions in the state.
Required Documents for Title Transfer in Wisconsin
The following documents must be assembled prior to initiating a title transfer with WisDOT:
| Document | Requirement | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| Original Certificate of Title | Must be signed by the seller; original only | All transfers |
| Wisconsin Title and License Plate Application (MV1) | Completed by the buyer; used to apply for title and registration | All transfers |
| Valid Identification | Government-issued driver license or state ID | All transfers |
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Must be completed on the title for model year 2011 and newer vehicles | Conditional |
| Lien Release | Required if a lien is recorded on the current title | Conditional |
| Form MV2300 | Statement of Transfer to a Surviving Spouse, Domestic Partner, or Heir | Estate transfers |
| Form MV2790 | Trustee Statement for Certificate of Title | Trust transfers |
| Bill of Sale | Not legally required; serves as documentation for private-party transactions | Optional |
Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process in Wisconsin
Step 1: Gather All Required Documents
Prior to initiating any vehicle transfer, all required documentation should be assembled. The original certificate of title is the primary instrument for conveying ownership; a photocopy is not acceptable. For vehicles of model year 2011 or newer, the odometer mileage must be recorded on the title in accordance with Wis. Stat. § 342.155. If a lien is recorded on the title, a valid lien release must be obtained from the lienholder before the transfer can proceed. Estate and trust transfers require additional forms as specified in the documents table above.
The buyer may use the MV1 Online Application Guide to pre-fill the Wisconsin Title and License Plate Application and calculate estimated fees before submitting the completed documents to WisDOT.
Step 2: Complete the Title Assignment
The seller must complete the back of the original certificate of title in full before delivering it to the buyer. The following fields must be completed accurately:
- Seller's signature and date of sale
- Selling price of the vehicle
- Odometer reading, indicating if the mileage is actual, not actual, or in excess of mechanical limits (required for model year 2011 and newer vehicles)
- Brand disclosure, if applicable
- Buyer's full name and address
If the title lists more than one owner and the names are separated by the word "and," all listed owners must sign. If the names are separated by "or," any one of the listed owners may sign. The seller is also responsible for removing the license plates from the vehicle prior to delivery, except for trucks registered at 10,000 pounds or more, farm trucks registered at 16,000 pounds or more, mopeds, and trailers.
Step 3: Submit Seller Notification
Following the completion of a private sale, the seller must submit an official seller notification to WisDOT. This step updates the state vehicle record and releases the seller from liability associated with the vehicle after the date of sale. The notification is completed online through the WisDOT website. While a bill of sale is not legally required under Wisconsin law, retaining a record of the transaction is strongly recommended for both parties.
Step 4: Complete and Submit the Title Application
The buyer is responsible for completing and submitting the Wisconsin Title and License Plate Application (MV1) to WisDOT. The application may be submitted through one of three methods:
- Online: Eligible transactions may be processed through eMV Public, WisDOT's online titling service. The original signed title and any supporting documents must be mailed to WisDOT after completing the online transaction.
- By Mail: Submit the completed MV1 form, the original signed title, and all required documentation to: WI Dept. of Transportation, P.O. Box 7949, Madison, WI 53707-7949.
- In Person: Applications may be submitted at a DMV Customer Service Center, where staff can assist with processing the transaction.
For vehicles intended to be operated on public roads, the title and registration process must be completed within two business days of purchase.
Step 5: Pay Required Fees
All applicable fees must accompany the title application at the time of submission. The WisDOT fee schedule is listed below:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title Transfer — Standard | $214.50 | Applies to original title issuance and all standard transfers |
| Title Transfer — Low Speed Vehicle | $207.00 | Applicable to low speed vehicles only |
| Title Transfer — Surviving Spouse, Domestic Partner, or Qualifying Family Member | $0.00 | Fee waived per WisDOT policy |
| Automobile Registration | $85.00 | Annual fee |
| Motorcycle / Moped Registration | $23.00 | Biennial fee |
| Autocycle Registration | $45.00 | Annual fee |
| Convenience Fee (Credit/Debit Card, PayPal) | Up to 2.35% | Applied to the total transaction amount |
Registration fees for trucks, motor homes, and other vehicle classifications vary based on gross weight and vehicle type.
Step 6: Receive the New Certificate of Title
After WisDOT receives and processes the completed application, supporting documents, and required payment, a new certificate of title is issued in the buyer's name. For applications submitted by mail or through eMV Public, license plates and registration materials are generally delivered within four weeks of submission. The certificate of title is mailed to the address on file with WisDOT upon completion of processing.
Applicants who submit in person at a DMV Customer Service Center may receive temporary registration documentation at the time of the visit while the title is finalized. The transaction receipt should be retained until the new certificate of title is received.
Contact Information
Wisconsin Department of Transportation — Division of Motor Vehicles
4822 Madison Yards Way, Madison, WI 53705
Phone: (608) 264-7447
Official Website: Wisconsin DMV
