Minnesota Title Transfer Costs: Fees Breakdown

Transferring a vehicle title in Minnesota involves several fees beyond the base transfer charge.

Standard Fees (2024)

• Title Transfer Fee: $15
• Recording Fee: $12.50 (paper title) / $15 (electronic title)
• Convenience Fee: $15 (deputy registrar processing)
• VIN Inspection: $50 (if required — out-of-state, rebuilt, etc.)

Total Base Cost: $57.50–$80

Plus registration tax, sales tax, license plates — see below.

Registration Tax (Additional, Based on Vehicle Age/Value)

• 1–2 years old: ~$125.50 total (title + registration)
• 2–3 years old: ~$94 total
• 3–4 years old: ~$73 total
• 10+ years old: Minimum $35 registration

Other Potential Costs

• Sales Tax: 6.5% state + local (up to ~8%) on purchase price (private party: declared value)
• License Plates: $7.50 (new plates if needed)
• Wheelage Tax: $10–$20 (county-dependent)
• Lien Recording: $2 (if adding lienholder)

Process

1. Seller signs title, completes odometer disclosure
2. Buyer applies at Deputy Registrar office (not DMV)
3. Bring: signed title, ID, insurance proof, payment
4. New title mailed in 10–14 business days

Fees subject to change; verify at dvs.dps.mn.gov or with your deputy registrar.