Yes, you can absolutely put two people on a car title. This is a common practice known as co-ownership. The process is straightforward at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), but the critical decision you must make together is how you want to own the vehicle. The two primary methods are Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship and Tenancy in Common. Your choice has significant legal implications, especially regarding what happens to the vehicle if one owner passes away.
The key difference lies in the right of survivorship. With Joint Tenancy, if one owner dies, their share of the vehicle automatically transfers to the surviving owner without going through probate court. Tenancy in Common does not include this right; the deceased owner's share becomes part of their estate and is passed on to their heirs, not necessarily the other owner on the title.
This decision is crucial for unmarried couples, family members, or business partners. It directly affects your ability to sell the car or get a loan against it, as most lenders require all owners to sign off. Below is a comparison of how different relationships typically approach co-ownership, based on common practices and state DMV guidelines.
| Relationship Type | Recommended Title Type | Key Consideration | Default in Many States (if unspecified) | Potential Complication |
|---|
| Married Couples | Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship | Simplifies transfer upon death; avoids probate. | Often the default for married couples. | Divorce can complicate the division of assets. |
| Unmarried Couples | Joint Tenancy or Tenancy in Common | Clarifies ownership intent; protects both parties. | Varies by state; often Tenancy in Common. | Breakups can lead to disputes over the asset. |
| Parent & Child (minor) | Adult as sole owner; child as secondary driver | A minor cannot legally hold a title. | N/A | Title must be in the parent's name only. |
| Parent & Child (adult) | Joint Tenancy | Eases transfer to the child after the parent's death. | Tenancy in Common if not specified. | Both parties are liable for registration fees and taxes. |
| Business Partners | Tenancy in Common | Aligns with business agreement terms; share is part of business assets. | Tenancy in Common. | Sale or dissolution of the business requires clear terms. |
Before heading to the DMV, discuss with the other person how you want the title to read and ensure you both have the required identification and paperwork. If you have any doubts, consulting a legal professional is always a wise step.
