How to Gift a Car in Wisconsin

Step by step

1. 1

   Find the exemption that fits

   Family transfers are exempt from a spouse, an ex-spouse (with the divorce decree, if the ex-spouse was the only owner), a parent, a child or child’s spouse, a mother-in-law or father-in-law, a stepparent, or a stepchild.

   A gift with no money exchanged and an inheritance are also exempt. Buying a vehicle from an estate is taxable.

2. 2

   Check the title is from Wisconsin

   The family exemption applies only to a vehicle with a current Wisconsin title. A transfer on an out-of-state title cannot use it.

3. 3

   Get the title signed over

   The giver signs the title over to you. Enter a purchase price of zero if no money, property, or services were exchanged.

4. 4

   Apply and claim the exemption

   Apply through eMV Public and choose the exemption reason, or use Form MV1. If the owner has died, mail your application to WisDOT instead of using eMV Public. The Department of Revenue reviews every exemption.

5. 5

   Pay the fees

   The title is $214.50, but transfers to a surviving spouse, registered domestic partner, or qualifying family member have no title fee. Registration is $85 a year if you will drive the car.