How to Gift a Car in Pennsylvania
Last verified: October 2026 against PennDOT sources
Pennsylvania does not charge sales tax on a true gift, whoever the recipient is, when both sides sign the Affidavit of Gift. A sale between family members is still taxed.
Here is how to transfer a gifted car.
Step by step
- 1
Make sure it is a true gift
A gift is a vehicle transferred without consideration or compensation: no money, property, or service in exchange, and no forgiveness or waiver of a debt or obligation.
- 2
Meet at an authorized PennDOT agent
The giver signs the title in front of a notary, tag service, or dealer, because the seller’s signature on a Pennsylvania title must be notarized or verified.
- 3
Complete the Affidavit of Gift (Form MV-13ST)
All givers and all recipients complete the affidavit, which is attached to the title application to claim the gift exemption from sales tax. It asks whether you are related and how.
- 4
Check the out-of-state rule
A car with an out-of-state title can also be gifted. The giver must show that sales tax was paid on it in a state that is reciprocal with Pennsylvania; otherwise tax is due on its current fair market value.
- 5
Insure, pay fees, and inspect
Bring proof of Pennsylvania insurance. The $72 title fee and registration still apply, and the agent may add a service fee. The car must be inspected within 10 days unless it has a valid inspection sticker.
When tax is still owed
- Anything of value changes hands, including taking over or forgiving a debt.
- A family sale at a low price: the Department of Revenue may review sales between family members priced well below fair market value.
- An out-of-state car without proof that sales tax was paid in a reciprocal state.
What to bring
- The title, signed by the giver in front of the agent
- Affidavit of Gift (Form MV-13ST), completed by every giver and recipient
- For an out-of-state title: proof that sales tax was paid in a reciprocal state
- Proof of Pennsylvania insurance
- Payment for the title and registration fees and the agent’s service fee