In Minnesota, nearly 20 percent of probate cases involve one or more inherited vehicles, and title issues stall over 25 percent of those inherited transfers.
Getting an inherited car’s title right prevents family conflicts, extra fees, and lengthy delays. This guide focuses solely on vehicle transfers—no real estate—to help heirs and executors navigate the process smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Inherit vehicles under $75,000? You can often use the Small Estate Affidavit (PS3026) in lieu of full probate
- Gather essential documents: death certificate, PS3026 or probate order, PS2000 title application, and odometer disclosure if needed
- Claim family-transfer tax exemptions for spouses and direct descendants to avoid Minnesota’s 6.5% transfer tax
- Avoid pitfalls like missing notarizations and incomplete affidavits by following a clear checklist
- If you need to sell, Twin Cities Auctions offers fast, transparent liquidation with on-site title processing
Minnesota Probate vs. Small Estate for Vehicles
| Process | When to Use | Timeline | Court Involvement |
| Small Estate Affidavit | Vehicle-only inheritance under $75K | 2–4 weeks | None |
| Full Probate | Estates with other assets | 3–12 months | Full court process |
Use the Small Estate Affidavit (PS3026) at any DVS office when total vehicle-only assets are under $75,000. Full probate is required if the estate includes houses, securities, or combined value exceeds $75,000.
Required Paperwork for Transferring an Inherited Vehicle
- Certified Death Certificate
- Small Estate Affidavit (PS3026) or Probate Court Order naming you personal representative
- Title Application (PS2000) completed by heir or representative
- Odometer Disclosure (PS20041) if vehicle is under ten years old
- Proof of Relationship (birth or marriage certificate) to claim tax exemption
Bring originals plus two photocopy sets of each document.
Step-by-Step Vehicle Title Transfer
- Submit Affidavit or Probate Order
- Small estates: file PS3026 at DVS
- Full probate: present certified court order
- Complete PS2000
- Enter heir’s name, vehicle details, and “inheritance” as the transaction type
- Attach Odometer Disclosure if needed
- Pay Fees & Claim Exemption
- Title fee: $8.25
- Transfer tax: 0% for spouses, children, grandchildren, and parents; 6.5% otherwise
- Receive New Title
- Small estate: same-day in most cases
- Probate: mailed in 2–3 weeks
Common Pitfalls and How to Fix Them
| Pitfall | Fix |
| Missing Notarization on PS3026/PS2000 | Visit a notary public before submission |
| Incomplete Affidavit Details | Double-check estate value, vehicle VIN, and heir information |
| Forgetting Odometer Disclosure | Complete PS20041 when vehicle <10 years old |
| No Proof of Relationship | Attach certified birth or marriage certificate |
Tax & Fee Breakdowns for Inherited Cars
| Recipient | Transfer Tax | Title Fee |
| Spouse, child, grandchild, parent | 0% | $8.25 |
| Other heirs | 6.5% of market value | $8.25 |
Confirm exemption eligibility with Minnesota DOR before filing.
Best Practices for Executors and Heirs
- Coordinate among co-heirs if multiple beneficiaries share a vehicle
- Use a detailed checklist to track each document, deadline, and DMV receipt
- Schedule DVS visits early to avoid office closures or backlogs
- Keep digital backups of all paperwork in secure cloud storage
- Consult an attorney for complex or contested inheritances
Why Auctions Are a Smart Choice for Car Purchases
Auctions can be an excellent source for late-model vehicles with clear chains of title and affordable pricing. Twin Cities Auctions, based in Minnesota, is one such reputable auction house that offers a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices.
Key Benefits of Buying from Auctions:
- Wide Selection: Auctions like Twin Cities Auctions offer a variety of vehicles, from low-budget cars to high-end models.
- Competitive Pricing: Auctions often offer vehicles at prices below retail value, enabling dealers to maximize their profit margins.
- Transparency: Auctions provide full vehicle history reports, so you know exactly what you’re buying.
- Convenient Bidding: Many auctions offer online bidding for your convenience, making it easier to source vehicles without being physically present.
Twin Cities Auctions: A Smart Vehicle Sourcing Choice
For those in the automotive industry, Twin Cities Auctions offers an excellent platform for sourcing quality vehicles at competitive prices.
Whether you are just starting or expanding your business, this auction house provides transparency, competitive pricing, and a broad selection.
| Feature | Description |
| Inventory Variety | Wide range of cars, trucks, and SUVs available |
| Competitive Pricing | Below-market pricing allows for higher profit margins |
| Vehicle History Reports | Detailed history reports for every vehicle |
| Online Bidding | Convenient online bidding options for dealers |
| Financing Options | Financing available to help with inventory purchases |
Conclusion
Transferring an inherited vehicle title in Minnesota is straightforward when you follow the right steps. Begin by determining whether you qualify to use the Small Estate Affidavit or must proceed with full probate.
Gather a certified death certificate along with all required forms and proof of relationship. File your paperwork at a DVS office and claim any applicable transfer tax exemptions.
Use a clear checklist and schedule your visit early to avoid delays. If you need to sell the vehicle, Twin Cities Auctions offers on site title processing and transparent fees for a fast, efficient sale.
With this guide as your roadmap you can complete the transfer confidently and focus on settling the estate and honoring your loved one.
Twin Cities Auctions: No Dealer License? No Problem!
Are you interested in buying or selling a car but worried about the complexities of needing a dealer license? Worry no more! At Twin Cities Auctions, we’ve removed the barriers, making our auctions open to everyone.
Whether you’re a seasoned buyer or a first-time seller, our platform offers a welcoming environment where you can participate freely. Experience the ease and excitement of our next auction and discover just how simple and rewarding a car auction can be!
Looking for more options? Explore our comprehensive list of all available car auctions across the United States. Your next deal might be just a click away!
FAQ
What qualifies for a vehicle-only small estate affidavit?
Any estate without real property where total non-real-estate assets are under $75,000.
How quickly can I transfer an inherited car title?
Small estates often complete title transfer the same day; probate cases may take 2–3 weeks.
Are transfer taxes always waived for heirs?
Exemptions apply for spouses, children, grandchildren, and parents with proof of relationship; others pay 6.5% of value.
What if multiple heirs share ownership?
Use a joint PS3026 affidavit or obtain a court order clarifying each heir’s interest.
Do I need a separate odometer statement?
Yes, if the vehicle is under ten years old and the title’s odometer section is blank.
Can I sell the car before transferring the title?
No; you must first obtain legal title before selling.
What if the will doesn’t name a personal representative?
The court will appoint an administrator; you must secure letters of administration before title transfer.
Where can I get help if the vehicle inheritance is contested?
Contact Minnesota Legal Aid or a probate attorney for guidance.
Source Links
https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/vehicle/vehicle-titles/deceased-relative-vehicle-title-transfer
https://www.licensemn.com/index_htm_files/Transfer%20on%20Death%20PS2004%207-17.pdf
https://cms2.revize.com/revize/paynesville/Family_of_Deceased_Just_the_Facts.pdf
https://bluenotary.us/transfer-car-title-mn
https://www.whipflip.com/blog/how_to_transfer_a_car_title_when_owner_is_deceased_in_minnesota
https://buriedinwork.com/articles/how-to-transfer-a-car-title-after-someone-dies-in-minnesota
https://bluenotary.us/title-transfer-minnesota