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How to Transfer a Car Title After Buying From a Dealer

Purchasing a car from a licensed dealer in Alaska can simplify the title transfer process compared to buying from a private seller. However, there are still important steps you must follow to ensure your vehicle is properly titled and registered with the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This guide walks you through the necessary actions, timelines, documents, and common mistakes to avoid when transferring a title after buying from a dealership.

What Makes Dealer Purchases Different?

When you buy from a licensed Alaska dealer, the dealership typically submits the title and registration paperwork on your behalf. This is one of the benefits of buying from a professional seller, but you should still know what to expect and what your responsibilities are.

Notably, dealerships are required by Alaska law to provide buyers with the proper paperwork and file the necessary documents with the DMV within 30 days of the sale.

Step-by-Step Title Transfer Process After Dealer Purchase

1. Dealer Prepares and Submits Title Documents

The dealership will complete and submit the following on your behalf:

  • Title application (Form 812)
  • Odometer disclosure statement
  • Dealer invoice or Bill of Sale showing the sale price and any trade-ins
  • Lien information, if the vehicle is being financed

They will also collect title transfer fees, registration fees, and taxes as part of the sale.

2. Receiving Your Title and Registration

Once the paperwork is submitted, the Alaska DMV will process your title. You will receive:

  • A new vehicle title in your name, mailed to your address (or to the lienholder if applicable)
  • A registration certificate and license plates, if new plates are being issued

3. Temporary Permits

If the title isn’t immediately processed or you’re waiting on plates, the dealer can issue a temporary operating permit so you can legally drive the vehicle while the paperwork is finalized. Learn more about these temporary documents here.

Documents You Should Keep

Even if the dealer handles the paperwork, you should keep copies of:

  • Bill of Sale or Purchase Agreement
  • Temporary permit (if issued)
  • Financing or loan documents
  • Dealer contact information for follow-up

These documents are useful if there’s a delay or issue with the DMV’s processing.

What If There’s a Lien?

If you financed your vehicle, the title will list the lender as the lienholder. You won't receive the physical title until the loan is paid off. The DMV will send the title to the lienholder and mark the lien on the title record.

Here’s a guide to how to handle lien releases for Alaska titles if you need to remove a lien later.

Delays and How to Expedite the Process

It can take several weeks for the DMV to process a title, especially during peak seasons. If your documents are delayed:

  • Contact the dealer to verify they submitted the title paperwork
  • Follow up with the DMV using your name and VIN
  • Consider using expedited processing (available for an extra fee)

You can also read about Alaska title processing times and how to expedite.

What If the Dealer Fails to Submit the Paperwork?

This is rare but can happen. If a dealer fails to process your title:

  • Contact them immediately
  • File a complaint with the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
  • You may also contact the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development if the dealership is uncooperative

Never drive a vehicle without valid registration or an active temporary permit. Doing so could put you at risk of penalties under Alaska's laws against driving without insurance or registration.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

  • Double-check that your personal details are correctly entered in the title application
  • Make sure your address is current so you receive your title and registration without delay
  • Keep copies of all sale documents
  • Know when your temporary permit expires and avoid driving past that date

Want to learn more about pitfalls during title transfers? See common title transfer mistakes to avoid.

Whether you're upgrading your car or buying your first vehicle, understanding how the title transfer process works with a dealership in Alaska saves time and potential frustration. While licensed dealers handle much of the paperwork, staying informed ensures the transaction is completed properly, and you remain legally compliant on the road.