How to Transfer a Title During a Divorce in Alaska

When going through a divorce in Alaska, one of the often-overlooked but essential steps is retitling jointly owned vehicles. Since Alaska is an equitable distribution state, vehicles owned during the marriage may be divided based on what the court deems fair, not necessarily a strict 50/50 split. Once ownership is determined, updating the vehicle title is necessary to reflect the new legal owner.

This guide will walk you through how to transfer a vehicle title during or after a divorce in Alaska, what paperwork you'll need, and what to watch out for to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Understanding Ownership After Divorce

During divorce proceedings, the court or a negotiated settlement will determine which spouse gets which assets. If a vehicle was acquired during the marriage, it is considered marital property. Vehicles owned prior to the marriage or acquired as a gift/inheritance may be treated as separate property.

If the court awards a vehicle to one spouse, that person becomes the sole owner and must update the title to reflect their name only. This is especially important for future sales, insurance, and legal liability.

Required Documents for Title Transfer After Divorce

To complete the title transfer of a vehicle awarded in a divorce, the following documents are typically required:

• Alaska Certificate of Title (original document)
• Divorce Decree or Court Order clearly stating vehicle ownership
• Form 820: Application for Title and Registration
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Odometer disclosure (if applicable)
• Lien release if the vehicle was financed and the lien has been satisfied

Where to Submit

All documents must be submitted to your local Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You may also mail them to:

Alaska DMV
3901 Old Seward Highway, Suite 101
Anchorage, AK 99503

It is highly recommended to visit the Alaska Vehicle Title Transfer Process page for an overview of the general title transfer procedures.

Steps for Transferring a Vehicle Title After Divorce

1. Obtain the Signed Divorce Decree – Ensure it explicitly mentions vehicle ownership.
2. Have the Current Title Ready – The spouse releasing ownership must sign the title over.
3. Complete Form 820 – This includes both title and registration information.
4. Pay Applicable Fees – As of now, Alaska charges $15 for a standard title transfer. More details can be found on the Title Transfer Fees and Costs in Alaska page.
5. Submit to DMV – In person or by mail, along with all supporting documentation.

What If the Vehicle Has a Loan?

If the car is still under financing, the lender (lienholder) must approve any title change. This may involve paying off the loan or refinancing in the name of the spouse keeping the vehicle. The lien release must be submitted along with the title transfer documents.

Special Considerations

• Disputes: If there is disagreement over who should get the vehicle, the title cannot be transferred until the court issues a clear decision.
• Timing: It’s best to handle the title change as soon as possible after the divorce is finalized to avoid registration or insurance complications.
• Insurance: Notify your insurance provider of the title change. This may impact your policy, especially if you are removed as an owner.
• Name Change: If your name has changed due to divorce, ensure it is updated across your license and title documents.

Handling Older Vehicles or Non-Titled Ones

Vehicles older than 15 years may not have a current title if they haven’t been retitled recently. In such cases, you’ll need to verify if the DMV requires new titling or alternate proof of ownership. More guidance can be found on the Title Requirements for Vehicles Older Than 15 Years.

Final Ownership and DMV Records

Once the title has been updated, the DMV will issue a new title in the name of the sole owner. Keep this document in a safe place—it serves as the official proof of ownership. Make sure all DMV records reflect the correct ownership to avoid future legal or registration issues.

Dividing property during a divorce is never easy, but ensuring that your vehicle is correctly titled afterward is a critical step for legal clarity and financial security.