You can transfer a car title in Cincinnati at the Hamilton County Clerk of Courts Title Office. This is the primary and most direct location for handling title transfers, which is a mandatory step when you buy, sell, or gift a vehicle. While the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) handles registration and license plates, the actual title issuance and transfer is managed by the county clerk's office.
Before you go, it's critical to have all your documents ready to avoid delays. You'll need:
- The current vehicle title signed over by the seller (and buyer, if applicable).
- A completed Ohio Certificate of Title (form BMV 3774).
- A valid form of photo identification (driver's license, state ID).
- Proof of Ohio auto insurance.
- Payment for the title fee and sales tax. The title fee is generally $15, but sales tax (currently 7.8% in Hamilton County) is based on the purchase price or the vehicle's book value.
Many third-party Deputy Registrar locations are also authorized to process title transfers. These can be more convenient in terms of location and hours, but they charge an additional service fee. For complex situations like an out-of-state title or an estate transfer, heading directly to the county title office is often the safest bet.
| Service Location Type | Typical Title Transfer Fee | Sales Tax | Average Processing Time | Additional Notes |
|---|
| Hamilton County Clerk of Courts | $15 | 7.8% | 15-30 minutes (with appt.) | Handles complex cases; recommended for new Ohio residents. |
| Ohio BMV/Deputy Registrar | $15 + $3.50 service fee | 7.8% | 20-45 minutes | Convenient for combined title/registration; many locations. |
| Authorized Third-Party Agent | $15 + $8.50 service fee | 7.8% | Varies by location | Often have extended hours; highest fees but maximum convenience. |
| Online/ Mail-In Title Transfer | $15 | 7.8% | 2-4 weeks | Only available for specific, simple transactions like adding a name. |
