Oklahoma goes digital with car titles: What vehicle owners need to know

After more than a century of using paper car titles, Oklahoma is officially going digital. As of July 1, the state now issues electronic vehicle titles through a state-run database. While the change won't impact every driver immediately, it could make a difference the next time you buy, sell, or transfer a vehicle.

Service Oklahoma Licensed Operator Lex Gaylord breaks down what this change means for vehicle owners.

What is an electronic title?

An electronic title is a digital record of vehicle ownership maintained by the state. Unlike traditional paper titles, this version is stored in a secure, state-run database and not printed unless certain conditions are met.

Will this cost Oklahoma drivers more money?

No. According to Service Oklahoma, there is no increase in cost. Standard title and registration fees remain the same.

What happens to existing paper titles in Oklahoma?

Current paper titles are still valid. However, when the vehicle is sold, transferred, or has a lien placed, that paper title will be converted to an electronic one. Vehicle owners can also choose to convert their paper title to a digital one ahead of time, either online or in person.

How does this affect someone selling a car in Oklahoma?

Once a vehicle has a digital title, the transfer process changes slightly. Sellers will need to obtain an electronic title bill of sale from a licensed Service Oklahoma operator.

“In the future, take the example — this car sells again and it is a digital title — then there is an electronic title bill of sale that you can pick up at any of your licensed operators for Service Oklahoma,” said Gaylord.

Can Oklahoma owners print out their digital titles?

In most cases, no. Vehicle owners won’t be able to print their electronic titles unless they fall into specific categories, such as moving out of state or selling a vehicle to an out-of-state buyer.

What does this mean for people buying new cars in Oklahoma?

Many new car buyers who finance their vehicles will have their liens recorded electronically, helping speed up the process and improve security. Paper titles may still be issued during the state’s transition period, but once a title transaction occurs, the digital system takes over.

Want to switch to a digital title now?

You can convert your title to a digital version at any time. Visit Service Oklahoma to read more.