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Surviving spouse/Heirship/Inheritance

Learn about transferring the certificate of title of a vehicle following the death of the owner.

The following people can transfer the certificate of title following the death of the owner:

  • A surviving spouse

  • The personal representative of the decedent's estate

  • A court appointed personal representative

Surviving spouse

To qualify as a surviving spouse, you must have been married to the deceased person at the time of death. Live-in companions and ex-spouses do not qualify.

To obtain a new title and registration for your vehicle, you must submit the following in person at any RMV Service Center:

  • An Application for Registration and Title completed and signed by the owner. It must be stamped by an authorized agent of the insurance company if the vehicle is to remain registered

  • Decedent's certificate of title assigned by surviving spouse

  • An Affidavit of Surviving Spouse

  • A copy of the death certificate listing the name of the spouse

Additional Resources

Affidavit of Surviving Spouse (English, PDF 54.24 KB)
Registration and Title Application (English, PDF 423.68 KB)

Heirship (will)

If a decedent has left a will, the personal representative of the estate may transfer ownership of the vehicle. He/she must give the following documents to the new owner:

  • A copy of the appointment of personal representative

  • Decedent's certificate of title assigned by the personal representative

Inheritance

If a decedent has not left a will, the court appointed personal representative may transfer the title. He/she must provide the following documents:

  • A copy of the appointment of personal representative

  • Decedent's certificate of title assigned by the personal representative

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