Kentucky Car Title Transfer Cost Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the cost of transferring a vehicle title in Kentucky. Fees are administered by Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing; the figures shown are the latest published amounts we could verify against the official source. County and dealer-specific charges are not included unless your state schedule lists them.
Kentucky title transfer cost — quick answer
Title fee
$9.00
flat statewide fee
Base registration
$21.00
statewide base (county fees extra)
Motor vehicle tax
6%
of purchase price (state minimums may apply)
Source: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing — use the calculator below for your specific estimate.
Estimate your Kentucky title transfer cost
Enter the sale price to see an estimated total. Numbers update as you type. County and dealer-specific add-ons are not included — see What this excludes below.
Used only to remind you that your county may add local fees not shown here.
Kentucky title transfer fee breakdown
| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Title transfer fee | $9.00 |
| Base registration fee | $21.00 |
| State sales/use tax rate | 6% |
| Plate fee | Check official source |
| Weight / value-based components | Standard passenger cars pay a $21 registration renewal fee (KRS 64.012, collected by county clerks); a small county clerk service fee (about $6) is added at the counter. Vehicles are also subject to an annual ad valorem property tax. |
Title fee is $9. Kentucky charges a 6% Motor Vehicle Usage Tax — a use tax shown here in the sales/use-tax line — on the vehicle's value at titling; there is no separate sales tax.
What may change your final title transfer cost in Kentucky
Local fees, late penalties, lien-recording charges, and inspection or emissions requirements vary across Kentucky. Confirm the full set of charges with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing before paying.
Official Kentucky sources
Related Kentucky resources
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to transfer a car title in Kentucky?
The Kentucky title transfer fee is $9.00, plus any applicable state sales/use tax (6%), registration fees, and county or local add-ons. Use the calculator above for an estimate; confirm the final number with Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing before paying.
Can you transfer a car title online in Kentucky?
As of 2026, Kentucky does not offer a fully online private-party title transfer — you generally complete it in person or by mail through Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing. Related steps like paying fees, booking an appointment, or filing the seller's release of liability can often still be done online.
Last reviewed: 2026-01-01 · Reviewed by the Car Paperwork editorial team · Based on official Kentucky Transportation Cabinet — Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing sources · Independent resource · Not legal advice