Car title · Iowa
Transfer a car title after death in Iowa
How to retitle a vehicle when the registered owner has died, with the right forms and the typical fee in Iowa.
In Iowa, a vehicle title transfer after death is handled by the Iowa DOT. Bring the original title, a certified death certificate, and either letters from probate or a small estate affidavit. The typical fee is about $26, and most transfers are exempt from sales tax for immediate family.
Quick facts
| Agency | Iowa DOT |
|---|---|
| Typical fee | $26 |
| Probate often required above | $50,000 |
| Average turnaround | 2 to 4 weeks |
Fees and forms change. Verify with the Iowa DOT before filing.
Step by step
Gather documents
Original title, certified death certificate, photo ID, and either letters testamentary from the probate court or a small estate affidavit if the estate qualifies in Iowa.
Decide the transfer path
Iowa allows three common paths: transfer by surviving joint owner, transfer by beneficiary designation if recorded, or transfer through probate. Pick the one that matches the title.
Complete the Iowa DOT forms
Most states use a transfer-on-death affidavit or an application for title with the executor named as transferor. Forms are free from the agency website.
Pay the fee
Title transfer in Iowa costs roughly $26. Sales tax is typically waived for transfers to immediate family.
Submit and receive the new title
Submit in person or by mail. New titles usually arrive within a few weeks.
Common questions
Do I need probate to transfer a car in Iowa?
Not always. Iowa allows small estate or transfer-on-death procedures for vehicles in many cases. Joint titles transfer automatically to the surviving owner.
What does it cost?
Title transfer at the Iowa DOT costs roughly $26. Family transfers are usually exempt from sales tax.
What if the title is lost?
Apply for a duplicate title at the Iowa DOT before transferring. Most agencies issue duplicates within a few weeks.
Can I sell the car before transferring?
Not directly. Title must be transferred to the estate or heir first; the new title-holder can then sell.