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Transferring a Car in North Dakota Without Probate

The same affidavit that unlocks a bank account works at the Department of Transportation too.

ND Dept. of Transportation, MVD

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

Quick answer: present a completed, notarized SFN 2916 (Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent) to the Department of Transportation, along with the death certificate and current title.

One form, citing the same statute

Confirmed current: the Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent (SFN 2916), citing NDCC 30.1-23-01, is issued by the North Dakota Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division — the identical statute and affidavit that covers bank accounts and other personal property.

No power of attorney, no estate representative? Still workable

If there's no one with power of attorney or formally in charge of the estate, the death certificate must be shown along with a completed, notarized Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent — the same document used elsewhere for the small estate process.

A lost title has its own fix, at its own cost

If a title has been lost or destroyed, an application for a duplicate title can be filed with the Department of Transportation for a $5 fee, and a separate $5 fee applies if a lien also needs to be removed.

Facing probate in North Dakota?

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

Talk to a North Dakota attorney

The North Dakota Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division processes this affidavit the same way statewide, regardless of which county the decedent lived in.

Vehicle title transfer — frequently asked questions

Which agency handles a North Dakota vehicle title transfer after death?

The North Dakota Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division, rather than a separately named DMV.

What form is used to transfer the vehicle without probate?

SFN 2916, the Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent, citing NDCC 30.1-23-01 — the same affidavit and statute used for bank accounts and other personal property.

What if there's no one with power of attorney or in charge of the estate?

The death certificate must be shown along with a completed, notarized Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent.

What if the original title has been lost or destroyed?

An application for a duplicate title can be filed with the Department of Transportation, with a $5 fee, and a separate $5 fee applies if a lien needs to be removed.

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

Present a completed, notarized SFN 2916 (Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property of the Decedent) to the Department of Transportation, along with the death certificate and current title.

Keep going

North Dakota Small Estate Affidavit CheckerDoes this estate qualify? North Dakota Small Estate: How-ToFiling the affidavit, step by step Do I Need Probate in North Dakota?Why the house always needs its own path Estate Value CalculatorWhat actually counts toward the total

This page provides general guidance only and is not legal advice. Based on North Dakota Department of Transportation Form SFN 2916 and NDCC 30.1-23-01. Fees and requirements can change; confirm current figures with the DOT or a licensed North Dakota attorney before acting.