Transferring a Car in Maine Without Probate

Quick answer: use Form MVT-22 (Affidavit of Surviving Spouse or Rep), with the exact requirements depending on whether a spouse, an heir, or a joint owner is claiming the vehicle.

A surviving spouse pays no title fee

Confirmed current: a surviving spouse may title the vehicle in their own name by submitting a title application, the vehicle's title, and a completed MVT-22 — no fee is required if the deceased was a Maine resident and the vehicle was registered and titled in Maine.

An heir needs more documentation, and a fee

An heir, when no personal representative has been appointed, needs a title application, the vehicle title, a notarized MVT-22 signed by all immediate heirs, a statement from the probate court showing no will has been probated, and a transfer of ownership — plus a $33 fee.

A joint owner skips this process entirely

Under joint ownership, when a joint owner dies, the surviving owner retains complete ownership of the vehicle automatically — no MVT-22 or title fee is needed for that transfer specifically.

A buyer from a full estate needs the PR's own paperwork

A person purchasing a vehicle from an estate with an appointed personal representative must obtain the title transferred by that personal representative, along with a copy of the PR's appointment from the Probate Court.

Facing probate in Maine?

A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.

Talk to a Maine attorney

The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles processes MVT-22 the same way statewide, regardless of which county's Probate Court would otherwise handle a formal estate.

Vehicle title transfer — frequently asked questions

What form does Maine use to transfer a vehicle title after death?

Form MVT-22, the Affidavit of Surviving Spouse or Rep, with different requirements depending on whether a spouse, an heir, or a joint owner is claiming the vehicle.

What does a surviving spouse need, and what does it cost?

A title application, the vehicle's title, and a completed MVT-22 — no title fee is required if the deceased was a Maine resident and the vehicle was already registered and titled in Maine.

What does an heir need if no personal representative has been appointed?

A title application, the vehicle title, a notarized MVT-22 signed by all immediate heirs, a statement from the probate court showing no will has been probated, and a transfer of ownership — plus a $33 fee.

What happens if the vehicle was jointly owned?

The surviving joint owner retains complete ownership automatically — no title fee or MVT-22 process is needed for that transfer specifically.

This page provides general guidance only and is not legal advice. Based on Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles title transfer requirements, Form MVT-22. Fees and requirements can change; confirm current figures with the BMV or a licensed Maine attorney before acting.