How To Get a Car Title in Nevada 2026
Vehicle owners in Nevada must obtain a certificate of title as mandated under Nevada Revised Statute 482.285, which governs the titling process for all motor vehicles operated within the state. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles regulates the issuance of vehicle titles and maintains comprehensive ownership records for vehicles registered throughout Nevada.
Where to Apply for a Nevada Certificate of Title
Nevada residents must process title applications through designated service locations that accept documentation and facilitate transactions. Authorized application centers include:
- State DMV Offices – Full-service facilities operating in major metropolitan areas including Las Vegas, Reno, Carson City, and Henderson, staffed by state employees
- County DMV Offices – Local government-operated facilities serving rural communities and smaller population centers
- Licensed Dealerships – Authorized motor vehicle dealers may submit title applications electronically on behalf of vehicle purchasers through the Electronic Dealer Report of Sale system
- Mail Submission – Documentation may be sent by mail to the DMV Central Services Division in Carson City for processing
Required Documents for Title Application in Nevada
Applicants pursuing a Nevada certificate of title must furnish the designated documentation to establish lawful ownership and satisfy state regulatory criteria.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Origin or Existing Title | Must show applicant as owner or contain complete assignment chain | Electronic titles require transmission from issuing jurisdiction; paper titles must be surrendered |
| Nevada Evidence of Insurance | Proof of minimum liability coverage meeting state requirements | Insurance carrier must be licensed in Nevada; coverage verified electronically |
| Vehicle Identification Number Inspection (Form VP-015) | Physical verification of VIN by authorized inspector | Required for vehicles never previously titled in Nevada |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Specific circumstances may necessitate supplementary materials beyond standard requirements:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lien Release (Form VP-186) | Documents satisfaction of secured debt obligation | Must be notarized original from financial institution; paid-in-full statements not acceptable |
| Nevada Emission Vehicle Inspection Report | Demonstrates compliance with emission standards | Required for gasoline vehicles model year 1968 and newer in designated counties; valid 90 days |
| Bill of Sale (Form VP-104) | Establishes purchase price and transaction details | Needed when title lacks complete transfer information or for probate situations |
| Power of Attorney | Authorizes representative to execute documents | Must be notarized on secure form; required when owner cannot appear personally |
| Trust Documentation (Form VP-188) | Trustee Appointment and Powers Affidavit | Necessary when transferring vehicle ownership into family trust |
Nevada Title Fees and Costs
The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles imposes standardized fee structures for title transactions, with registration fees calculated separately based on vehicle specifications.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Complete Change of Ownership | $28.25 |
| Duplicate Title (Nevada Address) | $20.00 |
| Duplicate Title (Out-of-State Address) | $35.00 |
| Title Change Without Ownership Transfer | $20.00 |
| Add or Remove Legal Owner | $20.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Vehicle owners should anticipate potential supplementary expenses:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Registration Fee | $33.00 | Standard fee for passenger vehicles regardless of weight |
| Governmental Services Tax | Varies by vehicle value | Calculated at 4% of depreciated DMV valuation based on original MSRP |
| Supplemental Governmental Services Tax | Varies by county | Additional 1% assessed in Clark and Churchill counties only |
| VIN Inspection Fee | No charge | Free at state DMV offices; some private inspectors may charge |
| Late Registration Penalty | $6.00 per month | Assessed on overdue registration fees; 10% penalty on overdue taxes |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Secure Ownership Documentation and Insurance
Obtain the properly assigned certificate of title or manufacturer's certificate of origin showing clear transfer of ownership to your name. If acquiring from a private seller, ensure all registered owners have signed the title assignment section exactly as their names appear. Purchase Nevada-compliant liability insurance meeting minimum coverage requirements of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $20,000 for property damage from a Nevada-licensed carrier.
Step 2: Complete Vehicle Identification Verification
For vehicles being titled in Nevada for the first time, schedule a VIN inspection using Form VP-015 at any DMV office or through authorized peace officers. Drive the vehicle to the inspection location along with ownership documents. DMV offices provide this service without charge at dedicated inspection stations, typically located outside the main building. County offices and alternative locations may be unable to conduct inspections for rebuilt, reconstructed, or specially constructed vehicles.
Step 3: Obtain Emission Testing If Required
Vehicles registered in designated areas of Clark County (Las Vegas) and Washoe County (Reno) must complete an emission inspection for gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles model year 1968 and newer. Exemptions apply to new vehicles on their first, second, or third registration, hybrid vehicles for the first five model years, and diesel vehicles over 14,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating. Testing results remain valid for 90 days, or 180 days if purchased from a Nevada dealer.
Step 4: Calculate Registration Fees and Taxes
Use the online fee calculator to estimate costs by entering the vehicle identification number and manufacturer's suggested retail price. Nevada assesses a governmental services tax based on 35% of the original MSRP, depreciated annually beginning at 5% after the first year and 10% per year thereafter until reaching a 15% minimum. Registration fees for passenger vehicles are $33.00 regardless of weight or passenger capacity.
Step 5: Submit Application at DMV Office
Schedule an appointment at your nearest DMV office or visit during regular business hours. Present all required documentation including the assigned title or certificate of origin, proof of insurance, emission test results if applicable, VIN inspection certificate, and payment for all fees and taxes. Payment methods vary by location but typically include cash, check, money order, and major credit or debit cards. Some offices may assess additional convenience fees for card payments.
Step 6: Receive Temporary Registration and Title
Upon application approval, the DMV will issue a temporary movement permit valid for 30 or 60 days, allowing legal vehicle operation while permanent credentials are processed. The certificate of title will be mailed to the registered owner's address within approximately six to eight weeks. If a security interest is recorded on the application, the title will be transmitted directly to the lienholder and held until the loan is satisfied. The Nevada DMV currently experiences a significant backlog in title processing, and actual processing times may exceed normal timeframes.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Nevada statutes exempt designated vehicle categories from certificate of title mandates:
- Off-highway vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles and utility-type vehicles registered exclusively for recreational use
- Trailers with unladen weight not exceeding 2,000 pounds
- Special mobile equipment not designed or used primarily for highway transportation
- Implements of husbandry utilized exclusively for agricultural operations on farms and ranches
- Vehicles owned by federal, state, or local governmental entities for official purposes
Contact Information
Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
555 Wright Way, Carson City, NV 89711
Phone: (775) 684-4810
Official Website: Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
