How To Get a Car Title in Georgia 2026
Georgia statutes require vehicle owners to obtain a certificate of title that documents legal ownership for motor vehicles, trailers, and motorcycles operated within state boundaries. The Georgia Department of Revenue, through its Motor Vehicle Division, oversees the titling system and preserves ownership documentation for all titled vehicles statewide. Applicants must file title paperwork within designated timeframes after acquiring or transferring vehicle ownership to remain compliant with state law.
Where to Apply for a Georgia Certificate of Title
Georgia certificate of title applications are processed through authorized locations across the state's 159 counties:
- County Tag Offices – Full-service facilities operated by county tax commissioners in every Georgia county
- Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers – Authorized dealerships process title applications for vehicles sold through their operations
- Online Electronic Submission – Dealers must submit all title applications electronically through the Georgia Electronic Title Registration system
- Mail Processing – Completed applications with required documents may be mailed to county tag offices for processing
Required Documents for Title Application in Georgia
Georgia title applications necessitate specific documentation to confirm ownership and fulfill state mandates.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title/Tag Application (Form MV-1) | Completed and signed by all registered owners | Must contain vehicle identification number, year, make, model, and complete ownership data |
| Ownership Evidence | Georgia certificate of title with proper assignment, out-of-state title with endorsement, or manufacturer's certificate of origin | Assignment section on title must include seller signature and date |
| Georgia Driver's License or ID | Valid identification for each new owner | State-issued identification required |
| Proof of Georgia Insurance | Current liability insurance meeting state standards | Policy documentation required at time of application |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Transaction specifics may require supplemental materials:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bill of Sale | Documentation of purchase transaction | Must show purchase price, transaction date, and buyer-seller signatures |
| Lien Release | Evidence of satisfied security interest | Required when prior title lists unreleased lienholder |
| Power of Attorney | Authorization for agent to act on owner's behalf | Must specify granted authority with notarized signature |
| Odometer Disclosure | Federal mandate for vehicles under ten years old | Must be documented on title or separate disclosure form |
| Georgia Emissions Certificate | Proof of passing emissions inspection | Required for gasoline vehicles in metro Atlanta counties |
| VIN Inspection Form | Physical verification of vehicle identification number | Required for out-of-state vehicles and homemade vehicles |
Georgia Title Fees and Costs
The Georgia Department of Revenue establishes uniform fees for title transactions throughout the state.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Title Application | $18.00 | Standard processing for new title issuance |
| Title Transfer | $18.00 | Assessed when ownership changes hands |
| Replacement Title (Lost/Stolen) | $8.00 | Certificate will display legend indicating replacement status |
| License Plate Registration | $20.00 | Regular passenger vehicle or lightweight pickup truck |
| Expedited Title Processing | $10.00 | Same-day service for in-person applications at Atlanta office only |
Additional Processing Fees
Transaction-specific charges include:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) | 7.0% of fair market value | One-time tax replacing annual ad valorem tax for titled vehicles purchased after March 1, 2013 |
| New Residents TAVT | 3.0% of fair market value | Reduced rate for vehicles titled when establishing Georgia residency |
| License Plate Replacement | Varies | For lost, stolen, or damaged plates |
| Mailing Fee | $1.00 | Document mailing charge |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Assemble Required Documents
Compile all necessary paperwork before beginning the process. Secure the existing title with an accurate assignment completed by the seller, confirming all required signatures and dates appear. Vehicles from outside Georgia require VIN inspection by authorized personnel. Ensure active Georgia insurance policy meets minimum liability requirements.
Step 2: Complete Application Form
Access and complete the Title/Tag Application (Form MV-1) with precise vehicle details: enter the 17-character vehicle identification number, model year, manufacturer, model name, and body configuration. List owner names exactly as they should display on the title. Joint owners must specify "and" (all parties must sign for transfers) or "or" (any owner may transfer independently). Add full lienholder name and address if financing applies.
Step 3: Determine Payment Amount
Calculate total fees considering vehicle type and purchase value. Sum includes title application fee, Title Ad Valorem Tax calculated at 7.0% of fair market value, registration charges, and any supplemental assessments. New Georgia residents pay a reduced 3.0% TAVT rate. Payment options include cash, check, money order, or credit/debit cards at county offices.
Step 4: File Application Materials
Submit a complete application with supporting documentation and payment to your selected location. Visit any county tag office during posted operating hours. Licensed dealers submit applications electronically through the mandatory Electronic Title Registration system. Mail submissions with out-of-state titles go to your respective county tag office address.
Step 5: Receive Certificate of Title
Following successful processing and approval, Georgia issues the certificate of title. Without a security interest, the physical certificate is mailed to the owner's address within two to three weeks. With a documented lienholder, Georgia participates in the Electronic Lien and Title program, holding the title electronically until loan satisfaction. Processing duration typically spans two to four weeks based on submission method and application volume. After loan payoff, the lienholder electronically releases the title, allowing the owner to request a paper certificate if desired.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Georgia law exempts specific vehicle categories from title requirements:
- Vehicles manufactured in model year 1962 or earlier
- Agricultural, horticultural, or livestock equipment not requiring registration
- All-terrain and off-road vehicles operated exclusively off-highway
- Boats, watercraft, and boat trailers
- Trailers weighing 2,000 pounds or less empty weight
- Homemade trailers and tow dollies under 2,000 pounds
- Mopeds and motorized carts
- Self-propelled wheelchairs and invalid tricycles
- Vehicles not manufactured for highway operation
- Nonresident vehicles owned by individuals without Georgia addresses
Contact Information
Georgia Department of Revenue
4125 Welcome All Road, Atlanta, GA 30349
Phone: (855) 406-5221
Official Website: Georgia Department of Revenue
