How To Get a Car Title in Illinois 2026
Illinois law requires every owner of a vehicle domiciled in the state to obtain a certificate of title issued by the Illinois Secretary of State. Title applications must be submitted with complete documentation and applicable fees to establish legal ownership and enable vehicle registration.
Where to Apply for an Illinois Certificate of Title
Illinois processes title applications through multiple authorized locations statewide:
- Secretary of State Driver Services Facilities – Full-service offices in over 130 locations
- Currency Exchanges – Authorized agents throughout Illinois
- Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers – Dealerships registered with the Secretary of State
- Electronic Registration and Title System – Online application portal for eligible transactions
Required Documents for Title Application in Illinois
Applicants must submit specific documentation to complete a title application in Illinois.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) | Completed and signed by all owners | Available online or at Secretary of State facilities |
| Proof of Ownership | Valid Illinois title assigned to applicant, out-of-state title with proper endorsement, or manufacturer's certificate of origin | Document must be surrendered at time of application |
| Proof of Illinois Residence | Illinois driver's license or state identification card | Current address required for all listed owners |
| Proof of Insurance | Illinois liability insurance meeting state minimum coverage | Signature verifying insurance must appear on application |
Additional Documentation Requirements
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Federal requirement for vehicles model year 2011 or newer | Must be certified on title assignment or separate form VSD 333 |
| Bill of Sale | Document private-party transaction | Must show purchase price, date, and signatures |
| Lien Release | Clear outstanding security interest | Original lienholder signature required |
| Power of Attorney | Authorize representative to act | Notarization required when owner cannot appear |
| Safety and Emissions Inspection | Verify vehicle compliance | Required for certain out-of-state vehicles |
| Tax Exemption Documentation | Qualify for use tax exemption | Required when applicable exemption claimed |
Illinois Title Fees and Costs
Illinois establishes title fees through statutory authority administered by the Secretary of State.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Certificate of Title | $165.00 | Initial Illinois title issuance; includes transfer fee |
| Duplicate Title | $50.00 | Replacement for lost or damaged certificate |
| Corrected Title | $50.00 | Amendment to existing title information |
| ATV or Off-Highway Motorcycle Title | $30.00 | Reduced fee for off-highway vehicles |
| Junk Title | $0.00 | No fee for junk vehicle certification |
Additional Processing Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Registration Fee (Standard Vehicle) | $151.00 | Annual vehicle registration |
| License Plate Fee | Included | Standard plates included in registration |
| Private Party Vehicle Use Tax | 6.25% of purchase price or fair market value | Whichever amount is higher |
| Title/Registration Search | $5.00 | Basic record search |
| Certified Copy Fee | $5.00 additional | Added to search fee ($10.00 total for certified copy) |
| Electronic Lien Processing | $0.00 (state) | Service providers may charge up to $2.25 per transaction |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Obtain Required Documentation
Collect the properly assigned certificate of title, current proof of insurance, Illinois driver's license or identification card for all owners, and any supporting ownership documents. For vehicles model year 2011 or newer, ensure the odometer disclosure is properly completed on the title or separate form.
Step 2: Complete Application for Vehicle Transaction(s)
Fill out Form VSD 190 with accurate vehicle information, including the complete 17-character VIN, year, make, model, body style, and purchase price. List all owners exactly as they should appear on the certificate. Include lienholder information if the vehicle is financed. All owners must sign the application with original signatures.
Step 3: Calculate Total Fees
Determine the combined total of title fee, registration fee, and any applicable use tax based on the vehicle purchase price or fair market value. Additional fees may apply for specialty plates or specific vehicle types.
Step 4: Submit Application Package
Present all original documents, completed application, and payment to a Secretary of State facility, authorized currency exchange, or licensed dealer. Staff will review documents for completeness and process the transaction. Payment methods accepted include cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card.
Step 5: Receive Certificate of Title
Processing typically requires 15 to 30 business days from the date of submission. When no lien exists, the paper certificate of title is mailed to the owner's address. If a security interest is recorded, Illinois participates in electronic lien and title programs, and the lien is maintained electronically until satisfied. Upon full payment, the lienholder releases the lien, and the title is issued to the owner.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicles are exempt from Illinois title requirements under 625 ILCS 5/3-102:
- Vehicles owned by the State of Illinois
- Vehicles owned by the United States government and not registered in Illinois
- Vehicles owned by a manufacturer or dealer and held for sale
- Vehicles registered under apportioned registration programs
- Special mobile equipment not designed for highway transportation
- Implements of husbandry used exclusively for agricultural operations
Contact Information
Illinois Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
501 South Second Street, Room 312, Springfield, IL 62756
Phone: (800) 252-8980 (toll-free in Illinois)
Phone: (217) 785-3000 (outside Illinois)
Official Website: Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services
