Owning a car can be exciting—freedom, convenience, and your own space on wheels. But things can get a little complicated when that ownership is shared. Whether the vehicle is jointly owned with a family member, friend, spouse, or ex-partner, you might eventually find yourself in a situation where one name needs to be removed from the title. Maybe the car is being sold, gifted, or you’re simply going separate ways.

Cars are more than just machines—they can represent shared responsibilities or, in some cases, unwanted entanglements. Understanding how to legally remove a co-owner from a vehicle title is an important step toward gaining full control or wrapping up loose ends. 

Fortunately, the process is manageable when you break it down into simple steps. Let’s walk through everything you need to know.

What Is a Car Title?

Before diving into how to change it, let’s get clear on what a car title actually is.

A car title, also known as a Certificate of Title, is a legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle. It lists the names of the legal owners, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, and other essential details. 

If two people own the car, both names will appear on this document—either joined by “and” or “or,” which makes a huge difference, as we’ll see shortly.

Co-Ownership: “And” vs. “Or” on the Title

One key detail most people overlook is how the co-owners are listed on the title:

• “John AND Jane Doe” – Both parties must sign for any changes or sales.
  
• “John OR Jane Doe” – Either party can act independently.
  

If the word “and” connects the names, both individuals must be involved in removing one party. If it’s “or,” it might be simpler—one person can make decisions on their own. This small word plays a big role in the process.

Reasons to Remove a Co-Owner

There are several valid situations where you might want to remove someone from a car title:

1. Divorce or Separation: A common scenario where one party keeps the car.
   
2. Buying Out a Co-Owner: Maybe you purchased the vehicle together but now one person wants to take full ownership.
   
3. Family Gifting: A parent may wish to transfer ownership to a child or vice versa.
   
4. Death of a Co-Owner: This requires special paperwork but is a frequent reason for title changes.
   
5. Partnerships Ending: In businesses or personal arrangements, circumstances change.
   

Whatever your reason, the steps are quite similar across the board, with minor differences depending on your situation and state laws.

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing a Co-Owner

Here’s how to go about it from start to finish:

Step 1: Review the Current Title

Start by locating the current title document. Check:

• How the names are listed
  
• The full names and spelling
  
• If there are any liens on the vehicle (like a car loan)
  

You cannot modify a title if the vehicle still has an open lien unless the lender is involved.

Step 2: Talk to the Co-Owner

Even if you’re legally able to act alone (in the case of “or”), it’s wise—and sometimes necessary—to inform the co-owner and get written consent. Miscommunication can cause delays or legal issues, especially in cases like divorce.

Step 3: Pay Off the Loan (If Applicable)

If the car is financed and there’s a lienholder (like a bank or credit union), you must deal with that first.

• Contact your lender
  
• Ask if removing a co-owner is permitted under the loan agreement
  
• You may need to refinance the car in your name only
  

No changes to ownership can be made while there’s an active lien unless the lender gives written approval.

Step 4: Get a New Title Application

Visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or go online to download the title transfer form or title application. Each state has its own version. Look for sections that apply to ownership changes or removing a name.

Step 5: Complete the Paperwork

Here’s where accuracy really matters. You’ll typically need:

• The current title (with both signatures, if “and”)
  
• A completed title application form
  
• Proof of identity
  
• Odometer reading (if required)
  
• A bill of sale or statement of ownership change
  
• Any release of lien documents, if applicable
  

Be precise and double-check everything. Errors can cause delays or rejection.

Step 6: Get the Document Notarized (if needed)

Some states require notarized signatures on title documents. If so, both co-owners may need to be present at the notary. Be sure to bring valid IDs.

States that often require notarization include:

• Ohio
  
• Louisiana
  
• Pennsylvania
  
• Montana
  
• Oklahoma
  

Check your state’s DMV website for specific rules.

Step 7: Submit the Application to the DMV

Head to your local DMV with all the completed paperwork, or in some states, you can submit it online or by mail. You’ll likely need to pay a title transfer fee, which can range from $15 to $100 depending on the state.

Step 8: Receive Your New Title

Once your application is processed and approved, the DMV will issue a new title with only your name on it. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the state and processing method.

State-by-State Differences

Every state has its own requirements, so it’s important to check with your local DMV. For example:

• California: Requires smog certification for title transfers.
  
• Texas: Needs a release of lien form if a loan was involved.
  
• Florida: Title changes can often be done online.
  
• New York: Requires the MV-82 form and may ask for sales tax documents.
  

Always check your state’s DMV website for the most up-to-date and accurate details.

Special Case: Co-Owner is Deceased

If one of the co-owners has passed away, you’ll likely need:

• The original title
  
• A certified copy of the death certificate
  
• Letters of testamentary (for estates)
  
• Affidavit of surviving spouse (if applicable)
  

The process will be smoother if the names are connected with “or.” In some states, you can also add a “Transfer on Death” clause to avoid probate.

What If the Co-Owner Refuses?

Things get trickier when both parties are required to sign and one refuses. Here are a few options:

• Legal Mediation: Especially helpful during divorce or inheritance disputes.
  
• Court Order: In severe cases, you might need a judge’s order.
  
• Buyout Agreement: Try negotiating with a fair price to get the other party to agree.
  

Unfortunately, you cannot force someone off the title without their consent unless ordered by a court.

Costs Involved

While not very expensive, the total cost can vary:

• Title transfer fee: $15–$100
  
• Notary: $10–$50
  
• Lien release processing (if applicable): Varies
  
• DMV service fee (in some states): $10–$30
  

If a lawyer is involved (such as in divorce cases), legal fees could apply as well.

Tips to Avoid Co-Ownership Issues in the Future

1. Think Twice Before Adding Someone: Joint ownership is a legal bond. Consider the long-term before adding someone to your car title.
   
2. Clarify Ownership with a Written Agreement: Especially in non-family cases, an ownership contract can prevent misunderstandings.
   
3. Review Financing Terms: Not all lenders allow co-ownership.
   
4. Title the Car in the Name of the Primary User: This simplifies future transfers and responsibilities.
   

Removing a co-owner from a car title may sound complex, but it’s completely doable when approached step by step. Whether you’re moving on from a personal relationship, simplifying your records, or adjusting legal ownership, understanding how the process works helps you take control with confidence.

Always follow your local laws, verify with the DMV, and when in doubt, ask questions. Cars should make life easier, not add legal stress. With the right paperwork and a bit of patience, you’ll have the title in your name alone—and one less thing to worry about.