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Transferring a Car in Nevada Without Probate

A beneficiary named on the title ahead of time skips the whole question — without one, a notarized affidavit usually does the job instead.

Nevada DMV Form VP-024, VP-241

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · Reviewed 2026 · How we calculate

Quick answer: if a beneficiary was named on the title, present a death certificate and Form VP-241. If not, and no probate is open, use the VP-024 small estate affidavit instead.

Nevada lets vehicle owners name a beneficiary directly

Genuinely distinctive: Nevada's Transfer on Death designation lets an owner add a beneficiary to the title of a motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer, so ownership passes automatically at the owner's death — the beneficiary then applies for a new title using the Transfer on Death — Beneficiary's Affidavit (Form VP-241, or OHV-023 for off-highway vehicles).

No TOD designation? The small estate affidavit steps in

If a vehicle owner has already passed and there is no probate case or trust, heirs may be able to claim the vehicle using the Affidavit for Transfer of Title for Estates Without Probate (Form VP-024) — Nevada's small-estate vehicle affidavit.

Signed in person, before a notary or DMV representative

Form VP-024 must be signed in person before a Notary Public or an Authorized DMV Representative, with original signatures only — photocopies aren't accepted, and the form can't be altered once signed and witnessed.

If probate is already open

The executor or administrator needs Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from the probate court, granting legal authority to transfer the vehicle to the heir or beneficiary specified in the will or determined by Nevada intestacy law.

Facing probate in Nevada?

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

Talk to a Nevada attorney

The Nevada DMV processes these transfers the same way statewide, regardless of which county's District Court would otherwise handle a formal estate.

Vehicle title transfer — frequently asked questions

Does Nevada let a vehicle owner name a beneficiary directly on the title?

Yes — Nevada's Transfer on Death designation lets an owner add a beneficiary to a vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer title, so ownership passes automatically at death without probate, using Form VP-241 (or OHV-023 for off-highway vehicles).

What if there's no TOD designation and no probate case?

Heirs may be able to use the Affidavit for Transfer of Title for Estates Without Probate (Form VP-024), Nevada's small-estate vehicle affidavit.

Does the VP-024 affidavit need to be notarized?

Yes — it must be signed in person before a Notary Public or an Authorized DMV Representative, with original signatures only; photocopies aren't accepted.

What does the estate need if there's an actual probate case open?

Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration from the probate court, granting the executor or administrator legal authority to transfer the vehicle to the heir or beneficiary.

How do I transfer a car after death in Nevada without probate?

If a beneficiary was named on the title, present a death certificate and Form VP-241. If not, and no probate is open, use the VP-024 small estate affidavit instead.

Keep going

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This page provides general guidance only and is not legal advice. Based on Nevada DMV title transfer requirements, Forms VP-024, VP-241, OHV-023. Fees and requirements can change; confirm current figures with the Nevada DMV or a licensed Nevada attorney before acting.