Transfer of Vehicle Ownership From A Deceased Spouse

When a married person dies, the question arises as to how to transfer interest from the deceased spouse to the surviving one. This assumes that there has been no joint ownership with right of survivorship, as established under 2131.12 of the Ohio Revised Code.

The interest in the car, truck or motorcycle will immediately pass to the surviving spouse upon the transfer of the title. This is according to the provisions of 4505.10 of the Revised Code. An affidavit can be applied for at the local Clerk of Courts Title Office. The affidavit will require:

• Approximate value of the vehicle
• Year and make and model and body type
• Vehicle identification number
• Ohio Certificate of Title numbers
• Death certificate
• Original title

If an estate is opened, then the Will is to be probated through the courts. The Executor or Administrator will act for the transfer of ownership of the vehicle.

Ultimately, the title will be transferred to the surviving spouse’s name. That person then will take the new title to a deputy registrar at the local license agency.

Driving With Vehicle Insurance

For Ohio motorists, it is illegal to drive any motor vehicle without insurance or other Financial Responsibility (FR) coverage. It is also illegal […]