Key Information on a Car Title
Table of Contents
Key Information on a Car Title:
A car title, also known as a certificate of title, is an official legal document issued by a state's.
Key Information on a Car Title:
∙ Owner’s name and address
∙ Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
∙ Make, model, and year of the vehicle
∙ Odometer reading (at time of sale or title issuance)
∙ Lienholder information (if there’s an auto loan on the car)
∙ Title number
∙ Date of issue
Types of Titles:
∙ Clean Title: No accidents or damage reported.
∙ Salvage Title: Car was declared a total loss by an insurance company. ∙ Rebuilt Title: A salvage vehicle that’s been repaired and passed inspection. ∙ Lien Title: A loan is still owed on the car; the lender is listed as a lienholder.
Steps to Transfer a Car Title in Illinois
1. Obtain the Signed Title from the Seller
Ensure the seller completes the "Assignment of Title" section on the back of the title, including the odometer reading if the vehicle is 2011 or newer.
2. Complete the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190)
This form is required for all title transfers. You can complete and print it through the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) System.Illinois Dealers+4Illinois Secretary of State+4Illinois Secretary of State+4
3. Provide Proof of Insurance
Submit a valid insurance card that meets Illinois' minimum liability coverage: ▪ $25,000 for injury or death of one person
▪ $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person
▪ $20,000 for damage to another person's property
4. Submit the Appropriate Tax Form
Depending on the transaction, complete one of the following:
▪ Form RUT-50: For private party vehicle sales
▪ Form RUT-25: For vehicles purchased from an out-of-state dealer
5. Pay the Required Fees
Fees must be paid via separate checks or money orders:
▪ Title Fee: $165.00
▪ Registration Fee: Varies based on the vehicle
▪ Tax Payment: Payable to the Illinois Department of Revenue
▪ Additional Fees: May include local taxes or plate transfer fees
6. Submit Your Application
You can submit all documents and payments either:
▪ In Person: At your local Secretary of State (SOS) facility
▪ By Mail: Send to:
Illinois Secretary of State
501 S. Second St., Rm. 055
Springfield, IL 62756
7. Remove License Plates
Illinois law requires sellers to remove their license plates before the buyer takes possession of the vehicle.
Required Documents Checklist
∙ Original vehicle title, signed by the seller
∙ Completed Form VSD 190
∙ Proof of valid Illinois auto insurance
∙ Completed tax form (RUT-50 or RUT-25)
∙ Payment for title, registration, and taxes
Additional Considerations
∙ Emissions Testing: Required in certain counties (e.g., Cook, DuPage, Lake). Check local requirements.
∙ Out-of-State Vehicles: If bringing a vehicle into Illinois, a VIN inspection may be necessary.
∙ Lien Releases: If there's a lien on the vehicle, ensure the lienholder provides a release before transferring the title.
