Title Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions regarding Titles.
What is a title?
A title is a secure document issued by the DMV which represents ownership of a motor vehicle.
What vehicles are not required to be titled?
New Hampshire does not title motor vehicles that have a model year of 1999 or older. Certain vehicles are considered "exempt."
What is the process for obtaining a title in New Hampshire?
Title applications are prepared by a New Hampshire Town/City Clerk, a New Hampshire licensed dealer or a lending institution.
I have moved to New Hampshire, and my title is held by a lien holder. How can I obtain a New Hampshire title?
Contact the city or town clerk where you reside.
How can I transfer ownership if I sell or trade my vehicle?
- Transfer ownership to the buyer on the reverse side of the title by filling in buyer's name, buyer's address, and current odometer reading.
- Obtain signatures of seller and buyer.
- Give the title to the buyer.
How can I sell a vehicle that does not require a title (exempt)?
- If you have a title, transfer ownership to the buyer on the reverse side.
- Provide a bill of sale (Report of Sale or Transfer of a Non-Titled Motor Vehicle (TDMV 22A) and a properly filled out Verification of Vehicle Identification (TDMV 19A).
- Provide a bill of sale (Report of Sale or Transfer of a Non-Titled Motor Vehicle (TDMV 22A) and a copy of the previous registration or title.
I have lost or misplaced my title. How can I obtain a duplicate?
- Complete an Application for Duplicate Title (TDMV 18) submit it along with a fee of $25.00.
- If a lien was recorded on the vehicle when purchased, attach a Release of Lien or other Encumbrances (TDMV 20).
- If the vehicle is jointly owned, all owner's signatures are required.
How long does it take to issue a title?
Approximately 30 to 50 calendar days once the title application is received.
What is the difference between a registration permit and title?
A registration permit allows you to operate a vehicle in New Hampshire, and a title is proof of ownership.
Does New Hampshire have a salvage title law?
Yes, every salvage vehicle must have a salvage inspection before it can be registered. Once the vehicle is inspected, a (DSMV 547) will be issued.
Where can I go to get my salvage vehicle inspected?
Please go to one of our Salvage Vehicle Inspection Locations.
Does New Hampshire have a "Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship" (JTWROS) provision?
- Yes, you may designate JTWROS on your title application.
- Joint tenancy with rights of survivorship can be used for non-married owners.
- The conjunction "or" on a New Hampshire Title is considered to be JTWROS.
- A married couple or partners in a civil union have automatic joint tenancy with rights of survivorship if the vehicle is used for family purposes.