Refinance and title

[NC84]

I'm trying to take over my partners loan with a refinance through my bank but I realized im not on her tittle or registration. Is it possible for her to sign the title and add myself as a secondary name on the title or do you have to send it into the DMV first? I'm looking for the easiest option since I already applied and was approved for the loan last week. 

[4sallypat]

Depending your state's DMV, I would first contact the original bank that has the title and ask if you can take the loan over by buying it out.

Usually the owner would need to request DMV to transfer title or modify it with the lender's approval.

But since the original bank has the title, they can assign it to another bank assuming your partner agrees.

[Loquat]

Each state has their own way of handling these. However most lenders will want to be added as the lien holder on the title so your partner would sign off on the title as the seller and you the purchaser.

You'd then have to register the vehicle as you normally would if you had bought it from a dealership. You'll most likely be issued new plates and the new title will then be in your name and will reflect your lender as the lien holder.

Sucky part is in most states you'll end up paying sales tax again on purchase/refinanced amount.