How to transfer the title of a vehicle marked TOD or Transfer on Death

If the deceased owned a vehicle with a transfer on death (TOD) title, the process for the beneficiary to claim ownership is relatively straightforward. However, it's important for the estate executor to first verify if the vehicle did in fact have a TOD title.

Verifying a Transfer on Death Title

As the executor of the estate, your first step should be to locate the vehicle's title among the deceased's records and personal paperwork. The title document will clearly state if a transfer on death beneficiary has been named for that vehicle.

If a TOD designation is listed, make a note of the beneficiary's name. You'll need to provide this information to the beneficiary so they can initiate the transfer process. Basically that means handing them the keys and the title. It’s their responsibility to finalize the transfer of title with the State DMV.

If no TOD is listed, the vehicle will pass through the deceased's estate like any other asset. The executor will handle distributing it according to the will or state laws.

Steps for the Transfer on Death Beneficiary

If named as the TOD beneficiary, here are the typical steps to claim the vehicle:

1. The executor provides the deceased's title showing the TOD designation.
2. Contact your state's DMV and request the paperwork to transfer the title, which may include:
   • Vehicle transfer form (e.g. Form MVR-3 in Texas)
   • Copy of the deceased's death certificate
   • Proof of payment for transfer fees/taxes
3. Submit the completed paperwork along with the deceased's original title.
4. The DMV then issues a new title certificate in the TOD beneficiary's name.

Be aware the beneficiary is responsible for any outstanding loans/fees on the vehicle.

States That Allow Transfer on Death Titles As of 2023

The following states allow transfer on death (TOD) registration for vehicle titles:

• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Texas
• Utah
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin

Beneficiary Obligations

Although the process varies from state to state, once the designated beneficiary has the keys to the vehicle, they need to complete the registration with their state DMV. To do this they’ll typically need a copy of the title with the TOD, a death certificate, and their drivers license.

By understanding the required paperwork and your state's laws, inheriting a vehicle via a transfer on death title is straightforward for beneficiaries.