Step by Step Guide to Navigating Transfer of Vehicle Title in Michigan

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal and administrative tasks during
a time of grief can feel overwhelming. One of the common issues families face is how to transfer
ownership of a vehicle that was titled in the deceased person’s name. Whether or not probate is
required, Michigan law provides a process for transferring a car title, though the steps can vary
depending on your situation. This guide is here to help you understand exactly what to do,
offering clear direction so you can move forward with one less burden during a difficult time.

Determining Whether the Vehicle Must Go Through Probate

A vehicle does not go through probate if it was jointly owned with another person and the
title says “or” between the names. It does not go through probate if there was a
Transfer-on-Death designation on the title. It does not go through probate if the estate qualifies
as small, or if there is not real estate involved.

A vehicle does go through probate if the vehicle was solely in the deceased’s name. It
must also go through probate if there was no Transfer-on Death designation listed on the title. It
must go through probate if the estate’s total value is over 60,000. Other reasons to go through
probate include disputes among the heirs, or if the vehicle is part of a larger estate already
going through probate.

When Probate is Not Required

1. Make sure the vehicle has no Debts or Liens

Before you can transfer the title, the vehicle must be paid off. Make sure the deceased
person didn’t owe anything on the car.

2. Locate the Original Vehicle Title

You will need the actual title in the deceased person’s name. You will also need the
odometer reading, which must be written on the title or provided separately during
transfer.

3. Get a Certified Copy of the Death Certificate

This must be an official copy. Usually, the funeral home helps you request them, or you
may get them from your local vital records office in the state where the person passed
away.

4. Fill Out the Required Heir Forms

You will need to complete one or both of the following:

Form TR - 29: Certification from the Heir to a Vehicle
Link to form: tr29.pdf
This confirms your right to inherit the vehicle.

Form TR -34: If Multiple Heirs Agree to Give the Vehicle to one Person
Link to form: TR-34 - Michigan Department of State Certification
This is used when multiple heirs are involved and agree that one person will take
ownership.

5. Provide Proof of Michigan No-Fault Insurance

This is required if you plan to register and drive the vehicle. Make sure the insurance is
active and under your name.

6. Bring a Valid ID

A driver’s license or some form of identification is required to complete the transfer.

7. Go to a Michigan Secretary of State Office

Bring all the above-mentioned documents with you to your appointment. Here you will be
presented with the Title Transfer Application to fill out.
Link to Appointment Scheduling: Scheduling an office visit

8. Pay the Appropriate Title Transfer Fee

Most title transfers come with a small fee. Immediate family members may be exempt
from sales taxes.

9. Receive the New Title!

Once processed, the State will issue a new title listing you as the legal owner.

When Probate Is Required

1. Make Sure the Vehicle Has No Debts or Liens.

Before transferring ownership, confirm the vehicle has been fully paid off. Any remaining
debts typically need to be settled through the estate before the title can be transferred.

2. Begin the Probate Process.

To start, you must file a petition at the probate court to officially open the estate. This
step is necessary for the court to assign someone the authority to manage and distribute
the deceased person’s property.

3. Wait for the Court to Appoint a Personal Representative.

This person will be legally responsible for handling the estate’s affairs, which includes
transferring the vehicle.

4. Obtain a “Letter of Authority” from the Court.

The Personal Representative will receive a Letter of Authority. This legal document gives
them permission to act on behalf of the estate.

5. Obtain the Original Vehicle Title.

It must be in the decedent’s name. You will also need the odometer reading.

6. Obtain a Copy of the Death Certificate.

Usually, the funeral home helps you request them, or you can get them from your local
vital records office in the state where the individual passed.

7. Have the Personal Representative Sign the Title.

This will officially transfer the vehicle from the estate to the rightful heir.

8. Provide Proof of Michigan No-Fault Insurance.

You will need active Michigan no-fault insurance if you plan to register or drive the
vehicle.

9. Bring a Valid ID.

A driver’s license or some form of identification is required to complete the transfer.

10. Go to the Secretary of State Office.

Bring all the above mentioned documents with you to your appointment. Here you will be
presented with the Title Transfer Application to fill out.
Link to Appointment Scheduling: Scheduling an office visit

11. Pay the Title Transfer Fee.

Most title transfers come with a small fee. Immediate family members may be exempt
from sales taxes.

12. Receive the New Title!

Once processed, the State will issue a new title listing you as the legal owner.