Car Title Transfer Between Family Members in Ohio
How to transfer a car title to a family member in Ohio tax-free — qualifying relationships, required affidavits, title fees, and the complete step-by-step process.
Ohio exempts qualifying family transfers from sales tax under ORC §5739.02. The transfer must be a gift with no consideration paid. Ohio uses a Certificate of Title form with a gift declaration section.
Required Documents in Ohio
Ohio's combination of a $15 title fee and broad family exemption (including siblings) makes it one of the most affordable states for family vehicle transfers. Complete the transfer at any Ohio BMV deputy registrar location within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which family relationships are exempt from sales tax on car transfers in Ohio?
Spouse, Parent to child, Child to parent, Grandparent to grandchild, Grandchild to grandparent, Sibling. Ohio exempts qualifying family transfers from sales tax under ORC §5739.02. The transfer must be a gift with no consideration paid. Ohio uses a Certificate of Title form with a gift declaration section.
Do I need a gift affidavit to transfer a car to a family member in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio requires a notarized affidavit or the gift section on the BMV title application to claim the family transfer exemption. The relationship must be stated and no monetary consideration acknowledged.
How much is the title fee for a family car transfer in Ohio?
$15. Ohio's $15 title fee is among the lowest in the country and applies to all title transfers including gifts. The gift exemption covers the 5.75%+ sales tax — a $15,000 vehicle saves $860+ in taxes.
Does a car gift trigger gift tax in Ohio?
No state gift tax. Ohio has no state gift tax. Federal gift tax rules apply for gifts above the annual exclusion. Ohio's family transfer exemption covers the 5.75%+ sales and use tax.
What documents do I need to transfer a car title to a family member in Ohio?
Required documents: BMV 3774 (Application for Certificate of Title), Notarized gift affidavit or gift section on BMV form, Odometer disclosure statement, Signed title assignment, Proof of insurance. Ohio's combination of a $15 title fee and broad family exemption (including siblings) makes it one of the most affordable states for family vehicle transfers. Complete the transfer at any Ohio BMV deputy registrar location within 30 days.
Can I sell a car to a family member for $1 to avoid sales tax in Ohio?
In most states, selling for $1 does not qualify as a gift — the state will assess tax on the fair market value. To qualify for the family gift exemption in Ohio, the transfer must be documented as a gift with no consideration paid. Use the proper gift affidavit and do not list any dollar amount as the sale price.