Title Transfers

Polk County title transfers are handled through the Polk County Treasurer and are required when ownership or other information shown on a title changes. The process can involve a purchased vehicle, a gift, a move into Iowa, a manufactured or mobile home, certain trailers, or another ownership change. The information below explains when a transfer is required, which documents to prepare, how forms must be completed, the 30-day filing rule, payment and submission options, appointment requirements, trailer rules, and common problems that can delay a transfer.

When a Title Transfer Is Required

A title transfer is required when information on the front of a title changes. The most common situation is a change in ownership because a motor vehicle or other titled property has been sold or given to another person. Polk County also requires the title process in several other situations.

According to the county's official Title Transfers information, a transfer may be required when:

Ownership changes after a sale.
A vehicle or other titled item is given to another person as a gift.
An owner moves into Iowa.
Ownership changes because of a death, divorce, or another circumstance.
A junking certificate is requested.
Ownership of a mobile or manufactured home changes.
A qualifying trailer or towable recreational vehicle changes ownership.

The title-transfer process applies to motor vehicles, mobile and manufactured homes, and trailers that are required to be titled. Boats are handled through the recorder's office rather than through the vehicle title-transfer process.

Which Office Handles Transfers

The Polk County Treasurer's Office Vehicle Division handles vehicle titles and serves as an agent of the Iowa Department of Transportation for title review. Its vehicle responsibilities also include registration renewals, junking certificates, security interests, special plates, and applicable vehicle registration and document fees.

Vehicle title transfers are not limited to the county where the vehicle was purchased. Polk County states that a vehicle title transfer can be completed in any Iowa county. A person choosing Polk County can submit a qualifying transfer through U.S. Postal Mail, the county drop box, or an in-person appointment.

Manufactured and mobile home transfers follow a different appointment selection. Polk County directs customers completing a manufactured or mobile home title transaction in person to select the Property Tax appointment service rather than the vehicle service.

The 30-Day Filing Deadline

The new owner generally has 30 days to present a properly assigned title to a county treasurer so that a new title can be issued in the new owner's name. Polk County states that penalties are automatically assessed when an ownership-change title is not processed within 30 days.

The Iowa title application also states that an Iowa title must be obtained within 30 days of purchase or a move into the state or penalties may apply. Because incomplete documents can prevent a transaction from being processed, preparing the title, application, bill of sale, and any required supporting forms before submission can help avoid a filing problem near the deadline.

Mail and drop-box submission are available for many title transfers, so an owner does not necessarily have to wait for an in-person visit. When a transaction must or will be completed in person, however, Polk County requires an appointment for a title transfer.

Documents for a Vehicle Transfer

Document requirements depend on the vehicle and transaction, but Polk County provides an official Title Transfer Requirements Checklist that covers the documents needed for many vehicle transfers. The county notes that the checklist does not cover every possible situation, particularly transfers involving circumstances such as the death of an owner.

Title and application paperwork

For a typical vehicle title transfer, the required paperwork includes the Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration, the original title with a completed assignment, a bill of sale or purchase agreement, and a damage disclosure when applicable.

The Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration, Form 411007, must be completed as required for the transaction. Polk County's checklist specifies that all owners are required to sign the application.

The original title should contain a fully completed assignment. The county checklist calls for the assignment line, the seller's signature and printed name, and the signatures and printed names of all buyers. Information entered on the title should agree with the other transfer documents.

Mileage and damage disclosures

Additional title information may depend on the model year. Polk County's checklist states that a vehicle that is a 2011 model year or newer requires completion of the mileage legend.

A vehicle that is seven model years old or newer requires a damage disclosure. The Motor Vehicle Damage Disclosure Statement, Iowa DOT Form 411108, is also required when the title holder is from outside Iowa, with section 2 completed as directed by the checklist.

Bill of sale requirements

A bill of sale is required when a vehicle is sold and also when a vehicle is transferred as a gift. Polk County provides an official vehicle Bill of Sale form that includes the vehicle identification number, year, make, model, seller and buyer information, transfer date, selling price, signatures, and a place to identify the relationship between the parties when the vehicle is a gift.

If a purchase includes both a boat and a trailer, Polk County's checklist says each item must be listed separately and an amount must be shown for each item.

The Bill of Sale form also warns that errors or alterations on the title or other documents submitted for a transfer may result in the bill of sale having to be notarized.

Other required documentation

If a vehicle was purchased from a dealership, the county instructs the applicant to provide all documents received from the dealership at the time of purchase.

When an SR-22 certificate of automobile liability insurance is required, it must already be on file with the Iowa Department of Transportation before the title application is submitted. Polk County directs the applicant to contact the insurance provider and have proof of the SR-22 provided to the Iowa DOT.

Other title forms may be needed in less common circumstances. Polk County maintains an official Vehicle Forms page covering common title, registration, replacement-title, trust, leased-vehicle, and related forms.

How Transfer Forms Must Be Completed

Title transfers are legal transactions, and Polk County cautions that documents cannot be altered. Applicants should complete the paperwork in blue or black ink, print legibly, and make sure amounts, vehicle information, and other numbers are accurate and consistent.

Do not use white-out, tape, or similar materials to correct title-transfer documents. The county also instructs applicants not to cross out written information. Errors or alterations can create processing problems and may trigger additional documentation requirements.

Names should appear consistently across the application, title, bill of sale, and other documents. Polk County indicates that using legal names is preferred. Differences in names or signatures can make it difficult to verify that all documents apply to the same transaction and owners.

When working with online forms, Polk County advises downloading and saving the form to a computer before completing it. Applicants should read each application fully rather than relying only on highlighted or commonly used fields because requirements can vary with the transaction.

Identity Requirements

Proof of identity is required as part of the title-transfer process. Polk County states that a valid Iowa driver's license is used for identification purposes.

For someone moving into Iowa who does not yet have a valid Iowa driver's license or Iowa identification card, the county checklist requires presentation of a Social Security card. A military identification card cannot be substituted for this requirement.

The county's checklist also states that an appointment is required in this move-in situation. Applicants moving into Iowa should therefore review the identity requirements before arranging the transfer so they do not arrive without an acceptable document.

Title and Registration Fees

For a standard motor vehicle transfer, Polk County lists a $35 one-time title fee. An annual registration fee is also due, with the amount based on the vehicle's year, make, and model.

The Iowa Department of Transportation Fee Estimator can be used to estimate title and registration charges. The tool can calculate estimated registration and title fees, security-interest recording fees, purchase-related amounts, and applicable credit from a vehicle that has been sold, traded, or junked.

Polk County cautions that the fee estimator is not mobile responsive, so it should be used on a computer. Postage is not included in the estimator's fee total and must be added when required.

Payment Methods by Submission Type

The acceptable payment method depends on how the title-transfer documents are submitted. Polk County's payment information distinguishes between payments made by mail, through the drop box, by phone, and at the office.

Mail and drop-box payments

Title-transfer documents sent through U.S. Mail or placed in the drop box can be accompanied by payment made by check, cashier's check, or money order. Cash and credit card payments are not accepted with mailed or drop-box submissions.

An applicant may instead indicate that the Treasurer's Office should make contact to arrange payment by phone. Transaction fees apply to phone payments.

When submitting title-transfer paperwork by mail, Polk County asks applicants to include a phone number in case questions arise. Documents placed in the drop box should be secured in a sealed envelope and should also include contact information.

In-person payments

For an in-person title transfer, payment can be made by credit card, debit card, cash, check, or money order. An appointment is required for an in-person title transfer.

Mail, Drop Box, or Appointment

Polk County provides three main ways to submit title-transfer documents: U.S. Postal Mail, the Treasurer's drop box, or an in-person appointment. The best option depends on the transaction and whether an applicant needs to appear in person for identity or other requirements.

Submitting by mail

All required forms, the assigned title, supporting documents, and either payment or contact information for phone payment can be mailed to the Polk County Treasurer's Office. The county states that mailed title-transfer applications are processed after receipt and returned using U.S. Mail.

Mail payments must be made by check, cashier's check, or money order. Cash and credit cards should not be placed in a mailed title-transfer package.

Using the drop box

The drop box is located near the south entrance of the Polk County Administration Building. Documents should be placed in an envelope before they are deposited. The county collects items from the drop box once each day.

No cash is accepted through the drop box. An applicant can include a check, cashier's check, or money order or provide contact information if phone payment is requested.

Completing the transfer in person

A title-transfer appointment is required when the transaction will be completed in person. The county's appointment system provides a Title Services option for vehicle purchases, in-state transfers, move-ins to Iowa, trailers, lien releases, and replacement-title services.

Applicants must have their physical title paperwork when making a title-transfer appointment. A bill of sale is required for title transfers, including transfers in which a vehicle is given as a gift.

Someone who has already submitted the required title paperwork by U.S. Mail or through the drop box should not schedule another title-transfer appointment for the same submission. If more than one service is needed, Polk County states that a separate appointment must be made for each service.

For manufactured or mobile home ownership transfers, the appointment system directs applicants to the Property Tax service. Vehicle transactions should not be scheduled under that service type.

Application Processing and Status

Mailed and drop-box applications are handled after they are received and are returned through U.S. Mail. Because the receipt date currently being processed can change, Polk County publishes a Title Transfer Application Status page showing the submission date range being worked on.

The status page is particularly useful for applicants who have already mailed a transfer package or placed it in the drop box and want to determine whether the office has reached submissions from that period.

Polk County states that title transfers completed in person are processed the same day when the proper documentation is provided. Missing forms, incomplete assignments, or other document problems can still prevent the transaction from being completed during the appointment.

Gifted Vehicle Transfers

A vehicle given to another person still requires a title transfer. The fact that no ordinary sale occurred does not eliminate the bill-of-sale requirement. Polk County specifically requires a bill of sale for a gift transfer.

The county Bill of Sale form provides a place to identify that the transaction was a gift and to state the relationship between the parties. The remaining title-transfer documents, including the assigned title and title application, must still be completed according to the transaction's requirements.

Moving Into Iowa

A person moving into Iowa with a vehicle is included among those who may need a title transfer. The Iowa title application states that an Iowa title must be obtained within 30 days of moving into the state or penalties may apply.

Move-ins also involve the identity rules described by Polk County. If the applicant does not have a valid Iowa driver's license or Iowa identification card, a Social Security card must be presented. A military identification card is not accepted as a substitute for that requirement.

The Polk County checklist states that an appointment is required in this situation. The county appointment system places move-ins under Title Services and provides a specific Move-Ins to Iowa selection.

Transfers After Ownership Changes

Not every ownership transfer results from an ordinary sale. Polk County identifies death, divorce, and other ownership changes as situations that can require a new title.

These transactions may require documentation beyond the standard title-transfer checklist. The county specifically cautions that its regular checklist does not cover all circumstances, including transfers following the death of an owner. Applicants in these situations should use the requirements applicable to that specific transfer rather than assuming that the ordinary sale documents will be sufficient.

Manufactured and Mobile Homes

Manufactured and mobile homes are included within Polk County's title-transfer information. The county directs applicants to follow the motor-vehicle title process for the required transfer paperwork.

The appointment category is different, however. A person completing a manufactured or mobile home ownership transfer in person should select the Property Tax appointment option. The appointment page specifically identifies transferring ownership of a mobile home as a Property Tax service and states that vehicle transactions cannot be processed under that appointment category.

Trailer Title Requirements

Iowa's trailer requirements depend in part on the trailer's empty weight and type. This distinction matters because smaller trailers may require registration without a title, while larger trailers require both title and registration.

Small trailers

A small trailer weighing 2,000 pounds or less when empty does not require an Iowa title. It does require registration.

For a used small trailer, the applicant completes the Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration and a bill of sale and provides the prior owner's registration signed over. The purchase amount may be placed on the registration instead of providing a separate bill of sale. If the trailer comes from a state that titles small trailers, the current title can be provided.

Polk County lists a $20 annual registration fee for a small trailer. For a new small trailer, the application and bill of sale are required, and a manufacturer's certificate of origin may also be required.

Large regular and semi-trailers

A regular or semi-trailer weighing more than 2,000 pounds when empty requires a title and registration in Iowa.

For a used large trailer, the county calls for an Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration, a bill of sale, and a properly assigned title. Polk County lists a $35 one-time title fee and a $30 annual registration fee.

For a new large trailer, the applicant provides the application, bill of sale, and manufacturer's certificate of origin. The same listed $35 title fee and $30 annual registration fee apply.

Homemade trailers

A homemade trailer weighing 2,000 pounds or less can be handled through the county treasurer using the Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration and the applicable county submission procedure.

For a homemade trailer weighing more than 2,000 pounds, Polk County directs the owner to contact the Iowa Department of Transportation Investigation Bureau at invbureau@iowadot.us for instructions on obtaining an Iowa-assigned vehicle identification number.

Towable recreational vehicles

Towable recreational vehicles include travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and teardrop trailers designed for vacation or recreational purposes. Their annual registration fee is based on model year and square footage.

For a used towable recreational vehicle, the required documents include the Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration, a bill of sale, and a properly assigned title. For a new unit, the applicant provides the application, bill of sale, and manufacturer's certificate of origin.

Common Causes of Transfer Delays

Incomplete or altered paperwork is one of the clearest ways to delay a title transfer. Polk County repeatedly directs applicants to review the title-transfer checklist before submitting documents because missing information may prevent processing.

Common problems that can interfere with a transfer include:

Failing to submit the original title with a fully completed assignment.

Missing a seller's or buyer's signature or printed name.

Submitting an application without all required owner signatures.

Omitting the bill of sale for a sale or gift transfer.

Failing to complete the mileage legend for a vehicle that requires it.

Omitting a required damage disclosure.

Using white-out, tape, cross-outs, or other alterations on title documents.

Using inconsistent names across the title, application, and supporting documents.

Sending cash or a credit-card payment through the mail or drop box.

Relying on the fee estimate without accounting for postage.

Scheduling the wrong appointment category for a manufactured or mobile home transfer.

Scheduling a duplicate in-person appointment after the same paperwork has already been mailed or placed in the drop box.

Reviewing signatures, names, vehicle identification information, purchase amounts, disclosures, and payment before submission can reduce the chance that the office will need additional information before issuing the new title.

Departments and Offices

Polk County Treasurer's Office – Vehicle Division
Polk County Administration Building
111 Court Avenue, Room 154
Des Moines, IA 50309
515-286-3030

Polk County Treasurer's Office – Property Tax Division
Polk County Administration Building
111 Court Avenue, Room 154
Des Moines, IA 50309
515-286-3060

Title Transfers FAQs

What if the vehicle is being titled in a trust?

When a title application is made in the name of a trust, additional trust documentation is required. Polk County states that a transfer involving a vehicle already titled to a trust normally requires a copy of the entire trust agreement. Instead of providing the complete agreement, an acceptable Certification of Trust may be submitted. Applicants should review the county's vehicle title and registration forms before filing because a trust transaction requires documentation beyond the standard ownership paperwork.

Does a private vehicle purchase have a one-time registration fee?

Yes. Polk County's official vehicle forms information states that vehicles subject to registration are generally subject to a one-time registration fee equal to 5% of the sale or lease price rather than sales tax on the vehicle. The county specifically notes that this one-time registration fee also applies when a vehicle is sold between private individuals. This charge is separate from the title fee and annual registration fee.

What should I do if my new title never arrives in the mail?

Polk County provides a Lost in Mail Form for situations in which a document sent by the County Treasurer through the U.S. Postal Service was not received. The form is used to certify the nonreceipt of the mailed document. It is available through the county's official Vehicle Forms page.

Can a personalized plate be assigned to someone else during an ownership change?

A personalized plate is not automatically transferred simply because ownership of a vehicle changes. Polk County provides a Personalized Plate Assignment Form specifically for assigning and transferring an interest in a personalized plate to someone other than its current owner. Anyone planning to keep a personalized plate within a family or transfer it to another person should review that form separately from the vehicle title paperwork.