How To Get a Car Title in Tennessee 2026
Tennessee law mandates vehicle owners to secure a certificate of title for any motor vehicle, trailer, or semi-trailer operated or stored within state boundaries. The Tennessee Department of Revenue administers the state's vehicle titling system and preserves ownership documentation for all registered motor vehicles across Tennessee's 95 counties.
Where to Apply for a Tennessee Certificate of Title
Tennessee operates a county-based system for processing vehicle title applications. Designated locations for title transactions include:
- County Clerk Offices – Each county maintains a motor vehicle services division within the county clerk's office that handles title applications for county residents
- Express Title Facilities – Select counties offer express service locations specifically designed for expedited title processing
- Mail Processing – Applications may be submitted through postal mail to the appropriate county clerk's office serving the applicant's county of residence
Required Documents for Title Application in Tennessee
Individuals applying for a Tennessee certificate of title must present documentation establishing lawful ownership and compliance with state vehicle registration requirements.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prior Certificate of Title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin | Document must contain complete assignment to applicant with notarized seller signature | Tennessee requires notarization of title assignment; electronic titles must be released by lienholder |
| Application for Tennessee Certificate of Title | Complete all fields with accurate information and original signatures | Available at county clerk offices or downloadable from state website |
| Valid Photo Identification | Government-issued ID verifying applicant identity | Driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID accepted |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on transaction circumstances, supplemental documentation may be required:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Federal mandate for vehicles less than 20 model years old | May be recorded on title or separate form provided by county clerk |
| Bill of Sale | Validates transaction terms and establishes purchase price | Recommended when title assignment section lacks complete information |
| Vehicle Identification Verification | Confirms VIN accuracy for out-of-state vehicles | Law enforcement inspection required for first Tennessee title from another state |
| Lien Satisfaction Documentation | Proof that previous secured debt has been satisfied | Must be original bank letter or properly executed lien release on title |
| Affidavit of Non-Dealer Transfer | Sworn statement for private party transactions | Required when vehicle sold by individual rather than licensed dealer |
Tennessee Title Fees and Costs
The Tennessee Department of Revenue establishes standardized fee structures as per official lien notation and duplicate title fees applicable throughout all county clerk offices.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| State Title Fee | $5.50 |
| Certificate of Title (Total with County Fee) | $14.00 |
| Duplicate Title | $14.00 |
| Lien Notation | $11.00 per lien |
| County Clerk Processing Fee | $8.50 |
Additional Processing Fees
Vehicle titling transactions may involve supplemental charges:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Additional County Fees | Varies by county | Individual counties may assess supplemental service charges; contact local county clerk for specific amounts |
| Single Article Tax | Varies by county rate | Local sales tax applied to vehicle purchase price; rates differ by jurisdiction |
| Registration Fee | Based on vehicle classification | Determined by vehicle weight, type, and intended use |
| License Plate Fee | $29.00 standard plate | Specialty and personalized plates carry higher fees |
| Mailing Fee | $3.00 to $7.00 | Charged when plates or documentation mailed to customer |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Secure Proper Ownership Documentation
Obtain the existing certificate of title from the seller with all assignment information completed and signatures notarized. For dealer purchases, request the manufacturer's certificate of origin or dealer-assigned title. Ensure any lienholder shown on the prior title has provided a written release of their security interest.
Step 2: Complete Required Application Forms
Obtain and fill out the Application for Tennessee Certificate of Title with complete accuracy. Enter your full legal name exactly as you wish it to appear on the title document. Provide your complete residential address and mailing address if different. For financed vehicles, include comprehensive lienholder details, including financial institution name, address, and loan account reference number. Complete the odometer disclosure section for applicable vehicles, recording the exact mileage shown at the time of transfer.
Step 3: Compile Supplemental Documentation
Gather valid photo identification proving your identity and residency status. Prepare a detailed bill of sale containing vehicle description, purchase price, date of transaction, and signatures of both buyer and seller. If titling a vehicle from another state for the first time in Tennessee, schedule a VIN inspection with local law enforcement to obtain verification documentation.
Step 4: Calculate and Submit Applicable Fees
Contact your county clerk's office to determine the exact fees for your transaction, including title fee, local sales tax based on purchase price, registration costs, and any county-specific charges. Visit the county clerk's office serving your county of residence during regular business hours. Present all documentation to the clerk for examination and approval. Provide payment through accepted methods, which typically include cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card with a possible convenience fee.
Step 5: Receive Your Title Document
Following successful processing and approval by the county clerk, your Tennessee certificate of title will be produced and delivered. For vehicles without recorded liens, the title is typically available within several business days or mailed to your address of record. When a security interest is noted on the title, the document will be forwarded directly to the lienholder for safekeeping until the loan is satisfied. Immediate title needs can often be accommodated through express processing at participating clerk offices.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Tennessee statute provides exemptions from certificate of title requirements for specific vehicle categories:
- All-terrain vehicles and off-highway motorcycles registered under the recreational vehicle program
- Farm tractors and other implements of husbandry used solely for agricultural purposes
- Road construction equipment and special mobile machinery
- Utility trailers and travel trailers weighing less than 5,000 pounds manufactured before 1975
- Vehicles owned and operated by governmental entities for official purposes
Contact Information
Tennessee Department of Revenue – Motor Vehicle Services
500 Deaderick Street, Nashville, TN 37242
Phone: (615) 741-3101
Official Website: Tennessee Department of Revenue
