Motorcycle Title Transfer in Illinois
Everything you need to transfer a motorcycle title in Illinois — fees, endorsement requirements, VIN inspection rules, and the full step-by-step process.
Motorcycle Title Fees in Illinois
Illinois requires a Class M motorcycle license or endorsement. New riders must pass a written knowledge test and road skills test. The Illinois Cycle Rider Safety Training Program offers an approved course that waives the road test.
How to Transfer a Motorcycle Title in Illinois
Check for liens, salvage brands, or odometer rollback flags before completing the purchase.
The seller signs the back of the title, fills in the odometer reading, and enters the sale price and date.
A signed bill of sale documents the transaction price — important for tax calculation and future dispute resolution.
Illinois requires proof of insurance before you can register the motorcycle.
Bring the signed title, bill of sale, title application, and payment for fees ($150 + sales tax at 6.25%+) to your local office.
Your new title may be issued same-day or mailed within 2–4 weeks depending on your state.
Illinois's $150 title fee is among the highest nationally. Budget for this upfront. Motorcycles require a separate motorcycle sticker endorsement on the license. Chicago imposes a city wheel tax on motorcycles; confirm current rates with Cook County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a motorcycle title transfer cost in Illinois?
The title fee in Illinois is $150. Illinois charges a $150 title fee for motorcycles — the same as passenger vehicles. Illinois's title fee is one of the highest in the country.
Do I need a motorcycle endorsement to title a motorcycle in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois requires a Class M motorcycle license or endorsement. New riders must pass a written knowledge test and road skills test. The Illinois Cycle Rider Safety Training Program offers an approved course that waives the road test.
Is a VIN inspection required for motorcycle title transfer in Illinois?
No. Illinois does not require a separate VIN inspection for most motorcycle title transfers. Odometer disclosure and clear title are the primary requirements.
How much is the sales tax on a motorcycle in Illinois?
6.25%+. Illinois state sales tax on motorcycles is 6.25%. Local city and county taxes bring the effective rate to 7%–10.25% in most municipalities. Chicago buyers pay the highest combined rate.
How much does it cost to register a motorcycle in Illinois?
$41. Illinois motorcycle registration is $41 per year (2-year cycles available for $82). Renewal is by calendar year with expiration on the owner's birthday.
What documents do I need to transfer a motorcycle title in Illinois?
You will need: the signed-over original title from the seller, a completed title transfer application from the Illinois Secretary of State, proof of insurance, payment for the title fee ($150) and sales tax, and a valid Illinois driver's license. Illinois's $150 title fee is among the highest nationally. Budget for this upfront. Motorcycles require a separate motorcycle sticker endorsement on the license. Chicago imposes a city wheel tax on motorcycles; confirm current rates with Cook County.