How To Get a Car Title in Alabama 2026
Alabama law mandates that every motor vehicle not more than 35 model years old, which is domiciled in Alabama and required to be registered in the state, must have an Alabama certificate of title. The Alabama Department of Revenue (ALDOR) Motor Vehicle Division is responsible for issuing vehicle titles and maintaining vehicle records throughout the state.
Where to Apply for an Alabama Certificate of Title
Applications for an Alabama certificate of title must be submitted through a Designated Agent of the ALDOR. Designated Agents include:
- County License Plate Issuing Officials – Available in all 67 Alabama counties
- Licensed Alabama Motor Vehicle Dealers – Authorized dealerships throughout the state
- Financial Institutions – Banks and credit unions located in Alabama
Required Documents for Title Application in Alabama
To complete an application for an Alabama certificate of title, applicants must provide specific supporting documentation to the designated agent:
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MSO) or Previous Title | The outstanding certificate must be either in the applicant's name or properly assigned to the applicant |
| Supporting Transfer Documents | Any documents that support the transfer of the vehicle to the applicant |
| Out-of-State Registration | If the vehicle is currently registered in a jurisdiction that does not issue titles, the applicant must surrender the outstanding registration documents that substantiate ownership |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on your specific situation, additional documentation may be required:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bill of Sale | Verify transaction details | Not required for leased vehicles |
| Proof of Alabama Residency | Establish owner's physical address | A physical address located in Alabama must be provided for the owner on the application |
| Federal and State Safety Compliance Documentation | Verify vehicle compliance with standards | Documentation verifying the vehicle meets federal and state safety, emissions, and anti-theft standards may be requested |
Alabama Title Fees and Costs
The Alabama Department of Revenue has established standardized title fees for various title transactions:
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original Certificate of Title | $15.00 |
| Replacement Certificate | $15.00 |
| Transfer of Certificate of Title | $15.00 |
| Corrected Title | $15.00 |
| Salvage Title | $15.00 |
| Notice of Security Interest | $15.00 |
| Assignment by Lienholder | $15.00 |
| Title History | $15.00 |
| Notice of Junk Cancellation | $5.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Designated agents are authorized to collect additional fees for processing services:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Agent Commission | $1.50 | Per application processed |
| License Plate Issuing Officials Additional Fee | $1.50 | Per application to defray processing and mailing costs |
| Local County Fees | Varies | Contact your county licensing official to determine if local fees apply |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
Collect all necessary documents, including the manufacturer's certificate of origin or previous title, proof of ownership, and any supporting transfer documents.
Step 2: Complete the Title Application
Work with a designated agent to complete the electronic title application through the ALVIN system. The application must include:
- Current legal name(s) of the owner(s)
- Physical address located in Alabama
- Vehicle identification information
- Odometer disclosure (if applicable)
- Lienholder information (if applicable)
Step 3: Submit Application and Payment
Submit the completed application along with all supporting documents and the $15.00 application fee to your designated agent. The application fee is non-refundable, and additional agent processing fees will apply.
Step 4: Await Processing
The electronic application will be submitted to ALDOR for processing and review. Titles are normally issued within 10-15 business days from the date the application and supporting documents are received by the department, provided all required documentation is correct.
Step 5: Receive Your Title
Once issued, the title typically takes 3-5 business days to be received by the owner or lienholder. You can check your title application status online through the ALDOR tracking system.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicles are exempt from Alabama's titling requirements:
- Motor vehicles more than 35 model years old
- Trailers more than 20 model years old
- Utility trailers with an empty weight of less than 2,000 pounds
- Vehicles registered under apportioned registration (IRP)
Contact Information
For questions or assistance with title applications, contact the Alabama Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Division.
Alabama Department of Revenue
Motor Vehicle Division
2545 Taylor Road, Montgomery, AL 36117
Phone: (334) 242-9000
Official Website: ALDOR Motor Vehicle Division
