Transferring a Car in New Jersey Without Probate

Quick answer: a surviving spouse or partner uses MVC Form BA-62 directly. Anyone else needs an Affidavit of Next of Kin from the county Surrogate first, for estates at or under $20,000.

A spouse goes straight to the MVC

Straight from the MVC's own page: a surviving spouse, domestic partner, or civil union partner presents the current title, a death certificate, and a notarized Affidavit (Form BA-62) at an MVC Vehicle Center, by appointment. No probate proceeding or Surrogate's Court filing is required first, under N.J.S.A. 3B:10-3.

Other heirs need the Surrogate's affidavit first

When there's no surviving spouse or partner and the estate doesn't exceed $20,000, an heir requests an Affidavit of Next of Kin (sometimes called an Affidavit of Surviving Heirship) from the county Surrogate's Court under N.J.S.A. 3B:10-4, then presents that affidavit to the MVC to complete the transfer.

A Transfer on Death designation skips both paths

An owner can designate a beneficiary in advance for a New Jersey-titled vehicle. The vehicle then isn't considered part of the estate at all, so no letters of administration or affidavit are needed — the named beneficiary simply presents the title, death certificate, and application after the owner's death.

A modest, specific fee

The spousal transfer carries a $60 title fee, plus an additional $4.50 if the existing registration is also being transferred to an immediate family member.

Facing probate in New Jersey?

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

Talk to a New Jersey attorney

The MVC processes these transfers the same way at any Vehicle Center statewide, regardless of which county Surrogate issued the Affidavit of Next of Kin when one is needed.

Vehicle title transfer — frequently asked questions

What form does a surviving spouse use to transfer a car title in New Jersey?

MVC Form BA-62 (Affidavit of Surviving Spouse/Domestic Partner/Civil Union Partner), submitted with the current title and a death certificate at an MVC Vehicle Center by appointment — no probate proceeding required under N.J.S.A. 3B:10-3.

What if there's no surviving spouse or partner?

An heir can request an Affidavit of Next of Kin (or Surviving Heirship) from the county Surrogate's Court when the estate doesn't exceed $20,000, under N.J.S.A. 3B:10-4, then present it to the MVC.

Does New Jersey let a vehicle owner name a beneficiary in advance?

Yes — a Transfer on Death Beneficiary designation keeps the vehicle out of the estate entirely, so no letters of administration or affidavit are needed; the named beneficiary presents the title, death certificate, and application after the owner's death.

What does it cost to transfer the title through the spousal affidavit?

A $60 title fee applies, plus an additional $4.50 if the existing registration is being transferred to an immediate family member as well.

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

A surviving spouse or partner uses MVC Form BA-62 directly. Anyone else needs an Affidavit of Next of Kin from the county Surrogate first, for estates at or under $20,000.

This page provides general guidance only and is not legal advice. Based on New Jersey MVC Form BA-62 and N.J.S.A. 3B:10-3, 3B:10-4. Fees and requirements can change; confirm current figures with the New Jersey MVC or a licensed New Jersey attorney before acting.