Car Title Transfer Fees in Tennessee: Exact Costs and How Long It Takes

Here is exactly what you will pay to transfer a car title in Tennessee — base fee, sales tax, registration, late penalties, and whether you can do it online.

Fee Breakdown

Base Title Fee$10–$100 depending on state

Additional FeesState and local sales tax on purchase price, registration fees, and various state-specific fees

Total Typical Cost$50–$300+ in fixed fees plus applicable sales tax

Transfer Timeline

1–6 weeks depending on state; same-day at some DMV officesSame-day available

Late Transfer Penalty

File within 30 days to avoid penalties.

Most states charge $25–$125 for late title transfers — file within 30 days to avoid penalties

Can You Transfer Online in Tennessee?

Varies by state — many states offer partial online title services

Check your state DMV website for available online options before making a trip to the DMV.

Where to File

Your state DMV office or county-level motor vehicle office. Location varies by state.

Money-Saving Tip

Bring all documents (title, bill of sale, photo ID, proof of insurance) to avoid multiple trips. Call ahead to confirm required forms.

Tennessee-Specific Facts for Car Title Transfer Fees

Tennessee Vehicle transfer fees and requirements

In Tennessee, the title transfer fee is $11 and registration costs $26.50 per year. Vehicle sales are subject to 7% state sales tax plus local taxes (can total 9.75%). Tennessee does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in Tennessee — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.

Emissions testing required in Davidson, Hamilton, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson counties
Title transfer at county clerk office
Sales tax based on county of purchase

Tennessee sales tax on vehicle purchases

Tennessee has a 7% state sales tax rate. 7% state plus local taxes (total up to 9.75%). Private-party vehicle sales in Tennessee are subject to sales tax. Sales tax applies to private party vehicle purchases. The title transfer fee is $11.

Tennessee bill of sale statistics

BillOfSaleNow has generated 1,712 bill of sale documents for Tennessee transactions, with 46 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.

More Tennessee Vehicle Guides

Each guide is written specifically for Tennessee laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to transfer a car title in Tennessee?

The base title transfer fee in Tennessee is $10–$100 depending on state. Additional costs include State and local sales tax on purchase price, registration fees, and various state-specific fees. Total typical cost: $50–$300+ in fixed fees plus applicable sales tax.

How long do I have to transfer a car title in Tennessee?

Tennessee requires title transfer within 30 days of the sale. Most states charge $25–$125 for late title transfers — file within 30 days to avoid penalties

What is the penalty for a late title transfer in Tennessee?