How to Remove a Name from a Car Title in New York
Whether you're dealing with a divorce, the death of a co-owner, or a mutual agreement to change ownership, here is exactly how to remove a name from a vehicle title in New York.
When You Can Remove a Name in New York
New York processes name removal through the standard title transfer process at the DMV. The specific documents depend on the reason for removal.
Process by Situation in New York
New York divorce decrees that specify vehicle assignment allow the receiving spouse to re-title at the DMV using MV-82 and a certified copy of the decree. If the decree is silent, both spouses must cooperate.
When a New York co-owner dies, the surviving owner submits the original title, certified death certificate, and MV-82. If the title has "OR" between names, the survivor has full authority. "AND" titles require the deceased's estate involvement — an executor or letters testamentary may be needed.
Both co-owners appear at the DMV (or one signs the title). Complete MV-82 naming only the remaining owner. Pay the $50 title fee.
Required Documents in New York
- 1Current New York title (signed by both parties or court order)
- 2MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application)
- 3Certified death certificate (if applicable)
- 4Certified divorce decree or court order (if applicable)
- 5New York insurance card in remaining owner's name
- 6Valid NY ID for remaining owner
When You Need a Court Order in New York
A court order is required when an uncooperative co-owner refuses to cooperate. In divorce, the court decree is the primary authority. For death-related removals with "AND" titles, an executor or letters testamentary may be required.
New York's requirement that insurance must be in the remaining owner's name before the DMV appointment is a common trip-killer. Update your insurance policy FIRST, get the new insurance card, then schedule your DMV appointment. Missing the insurance card means rescheduling.
New York Name Removal FAQ
How do I remove an ex-spouse's name from a car title in New York?
In New York, New York divorce decrees that specify vehicle assignment allow the receiving spouse to re-title at the DMV using MV-82 and a certified copy of the decree. If the decree is silent, both spouses must cooperate.
How do I remove a deceased co-owner from a car title in New York?
When a New York co-owner dies, the surviving owner submits the original title, certified death certificate, and MV-82. If the title has "OR" between names, the survivor has full authority. "AND" titles require the deceased's estate involvement — an executor or letters testamentary may be needed.
Can I remove a name from a car title by mutual agreement in New York?
Both co-owners appear at the DMV (or one signs the title). Complete MV-82 naming only the remaining owner. Pay the $50 title fee.
What documents are needed to remove a name from a car title in New York?
Required: Current New York title (signed by both parties or court order); MV-82 (Vehicle Registration / Title Application); Certified death certificate (if applicable); Certified divorce decree or court order (if applicable); New York insurance card in remaining owner's name; Valid NY ID for remaining owner.
When do I need a court order to remove a name from a car title in New York?
A court order is required when an uncooperative co-owner refuses to cooperate. In divorce, the court decree is the primary authority. For death-related removals with "AND" titles, an executor or letters testamentary may be required.
How much does it cost to remove a name from a car title in New York?
$50. Standard New York $50 title fee. Spousal transfers may qualify for the DTF-802 gift exemption from sales tax.