Quick answer: most heirs use the Affidavit of Inheritance (Form F-1310501) at the county clerk to retitle a vehicle without full probate, paying an $11 title application fee. The car's value counts toward Tennessee's $50,000 small estate cap.
The straightforward route
When the estate doesn't otherwise require full probate, the Affidavit of Inheritance lets an heir present the certified death certificate and the vehicle's title directly to the county clerk, along with the completed affidavit form, to have the title reissued in their name — no separate court filing needed for the vehicle specifically.
If the small estate petition is already in play
For a larger small-estate situation, the administrator appointed under the Small Estate Probate Act presents the resulting limited letters of administration, together with the death certificate and title, at the county clerk's office — the same office, just a different supporting document.
What it costs
- $11 title application fee (T.C.A. 55-6-101)
- $14 for a duplicate title, if the original has been lost (Form F-1315201)
- No separate court filing fee for the affidavit route itself
If full probate is already required
When the estate exceeds the Small Estate Probate Act's threshold, or otherwise needs formal administration, a court-appointed personal representative transfers the vehicle instead, using letters testamentary or letters of administration as proof of authority — the affidavit route is specifically for estates that don't need that heavier process.
A local probate attorney can review your estate — many offer a free consultation.
County clerks handle this transfer statewide — Shelby, Davidson, Knox, Hamilton, and every other Tennessee county follow the same fee schedule and forms.