Getting a Nevada title for car ownership is required by the state any time a vehicle’s ownership changes. Because a vehicle title is a legal document, it is important that this pink slip always reflect the current owner’s name.

The car title process involves completing a title form, supplying any additional requested paperwork and paying the established title transfer or title processing fees. Keep reading to learn more information about how to get car title documentation, including the differences between motor vehicle titles and auto registration certificates.

Where to Apply for a Car Title in Nevada

When getting a new car title in NV for a car purchased at a dealership, the dealer will usually process the titling information and submit any applicable fees on your behalf. If you buy a car from a private seller or receive one as a gift or inheritance, you must get car title documentation changed to your name within 30 days of taking ownership.

DMV car title applications are processed at any full-service DMV office in the state. Larger auto title and registration locations in Carson City, Henderson, Las Vegas and Reno offer appointments by phone or through Nevada’s online Dash Pass service. The NV DMV discourages visiting their offices on the day after a holiday because of increased wait times.

To save time when planning your DMV car title appointment, utilize the online application that permits you to get in line virtually. You will then receive regular alerts by text notifying you of how much longer you have to wait.

The Nevada Auto Title Application

When getting car title documents at a DMV office, the clerk will instruct you on which forms are needed for your particular case. Most car title and registration applicants use the basic Application for Vehicle Registration, Form VP 222.

Vehicles that have never been registered in Nevada must have a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection first. These may be obtained at the DMV office or at your local law enforcement agency.

If you are applying for a used car title on a gifted or inherited vehicle, you may need to complete a title transfer form upon which the owner or estate signs the vehicle over to you. After the NV DMV processes your application, you will receive a copy of the new title in the mail, as long as there is no lienholder. You may pay an additional DMV auto title fee and request expedited processing using Form VP 265.

Documents You Must Provide When Applying for a New Car Title in Nevada

The documents needed for getting car titles in NV can vary depending upon the type of transaction that connected you with your new or used vehicle. All certificate of title applicants must show proof of liability insurance purchased through a Nevada-licensed auto insurance carrier, and the name on the policy must match exactly the name printed on the car title and registration documents.

If there is a lien on the vehicle, the buyer must provide any lienholder information requested. If a VIN inspection was required to issue an auto title, you must show the DMV clerk your Vehicle Inspection Certificate, Form VP 015. Residents of Reno and Las Vegas getting car title certificates on gasoline or diesel-powered cars and trucks dated 1968 and newer must also provide a Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report.

What is a Nevada car registration?

A Nevada car registration is the legal document that gives you the right to drive on public roadways. As with car titling, vehicle registration must take place within 30 days of taking ownership of a car. While most drivers obtain auto registration and titling simultaneously on new car purchases, vehicles bought from Nevada car dealers can sometimes be registered online via the Electronic Dealer Report of Sale (EDRS) system.

NV DMV car registration is also the process by which drivers obtain license plates for their vehicles. Whenever a vehicle gets a new car registration, you must transfer your current plates over to a new car or turn them in to the DMV for cancellation.

What is the difference between a car title and a vehicle registration in Nevada?

Nevada car titles and vehicle registrations are often obtained at the same time, but they are essentially two different processes and serve two separate purposes. While a car title shows the names of the drivers who own a vehicle, a car registration gives you permission to drive that vehicle on the road.

By law, your NV motor vehicle registration must be kept in your vehicle along with your proof of auto insurance. It is recommended that you do not carry your certificate of car title inside your vehicle, but instead store it wherever you keep your other important papers. If someone were to steal your car with the title inside it, the thief would have everything needed to fraudulently take ownership of the car.

Note: To get car registration or car title appointments, call (844) DASHPASS and follow the prompts.

Car Title Costs in Nevada

The first-time title application fee in Nevada is $21.00. If you are titling a vehicle that is not physically present in Nevada or registered elsewhere, you will need to pay a $36.00 fee. An $8.25 fee is added for any title application involving a complete change of ownership.

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