Transferring a car title to a family member is more than just a paperwork process — it can be a way to help someone you love gain financial stability, affordable transportation, or even access to emergency funds. Whether you are gifting, selling, or donating a vehicle, understanding the requirements in North and South Carolina ensures the transfer is smooth and legally valid.

And if your family member ever needs quick cash, having a clear, lien-free title allows them to use the car as collateral for a title loan with lenders like Carolina Title Loans, Inc. 

Why Title Transfers Matter

When you transfer a car title, you legally change ownership of the vehicle from your name to your family member’s name. Without this step, they won’t be able to:

• Register the car in their own name

• Get license plates and insurance

• Use the vehicle as collateral for a title loan

That’s why it’s important to complete the transfer correctly — whether you’re helping them get transportation or preparing the car to be used for financial assistance.

Required DMV Forms for Tranfers

In North and South Carolina, title transfers require specific paperwork. Common forms include:

• MVR-1 – Title Application

• MVR-180 – Odometer Disclosure Statement

• MVR-181 – Affidavit of Authority to Assign Title

• MVR-613 – North Carolina Highway Use Tax Exemption (if the vehicle is a gift)

Be sure to check with your state DMV office for the most up-to-date requirements.

Three Types of Family Transfers

1. Gifting a Car to a Family Member

Gifting a vehicle is one of the most common ways to help a loved one. For example:

• A parent may gift a car to their child so they have reliable transportation for work or school.

• A sibling might gift a car to help another family member avoid expensive car payments.

Key Points:

• Gifts are often exempt from highway use taxes with the right DMV forms.

• The title must be lien-free to avoid complications.

• Once transferred, the family member owns the car outright and can use it for everyday needs — or later as collateral for a title loan if an emergency arises.

2. Selling a Car to a Family Member

Sometimes it makes more sense to sell rather than gift a car, especially if the owner still wants some compensation. Many families choose to:

• Sell a car at a discounted price so the buyer can afford reliable transportation without the burden of a new car loan.

• Structure the sale so the family member still gains equity and clear ownership of the vehicle.

Key Points:

• Selling requires completing a bill of sale and title reassignment.

• The new owner avoids large dealership markups.

• A lien-free title means the car can later serve as collateral for a quick loan if money gets tight.

3. Donating a Car to a Family Member in Need

Donation is another option when the goal is simply to help a family member in crisis. For example:

• Donating a vehicle to a family member who lost their car and can’t afford another.

• Providing a car so someone can get to medical appointments, work, or childcare.

Key Points:

• Donations still require a legal title transfer.

• The act of donation helps family members avoid the cycle of debt tied to public transportation or costly rideshares.

• Having the title in their name ensures they can access a title loan if a financial emergency comes up.

Required Items for a Title Loan

If your family member decides to use the transferred car as collateral for a title loan, they will need:

• A lien-free car title in their name

• A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license or state ID)

• The vehicle itself for a quick inspection

• Proof of residency or income (in some cases)

Having these items ready speeds up the approval process.

How the Title Loan Process Works with Carolina Title Loans, Inc.

Carolina Title Loans, Inc. makes the car title loan process simple:

1. Submit a Quick Form Online – Start by filling out a short application with basic information.

2. Bring the Required Items – Visit your nearest Carolina Title Loans, Inc. location with your lien-free title, ID, and vehicle.

3. Vehicle Inspection – A representative reviews your vehicle and documents.

4. Approval & Loan Offer – If approved, you’ll be presented with a loan amount based on your car’s value.

5. Get Your Cash Fast – Many borrowers leave with funds the same day.

The best part? You keep driving your car while repaying the loan.

Ready to Help Your Family Member?

Helping a family member through a title transfer is a meaningful way to provide support. Whether you’re gifting a car for school, selling at a discount to ease financial strain, or donating to help someone in need, completing the process correctly ensures they become the rightful owner.

And with full ownership comes peace of mind — the ability to use the car both as reliable transportation and, if necessary, as collateral for a title loan.

Receive Fast Cash For Your Car Title Today!

If you’re planning to transfer a car to a loved one, make sure the process is done right so they can fully benefit from ownership. And when life throws financial challenges their way, Carolina Title Loans, Inc. is here to help. 

Start your title loan application online now and see how quickly you or your family member could turn a car title into the cash you need — without giving up the vehicle you rely on.

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.