1. Complete Your ID Verification
Before payment begins, you’ll be asked to verify your identity. This is a one-time step and includes:
- Uploading your driver’s licence or passport
- A quick ID check
- Setting up your Escrow.com account
It only takes a few minutes and keeps both parties protected.
2. Submit Payment
You’ll be directed to transfer funds through Escrow.com. Your payment is held securely, not released to the seller, until the transfer is complete and confirmed.
3. The Seller Begins the Transfer
Once your payment is locked in, the seller starts the transfer process. This is the part that takes the longest.
Each state has its own rules, paperwork, and approval timing, but we provide full State-by-State Transfer Guides to walk both parties through what’s required. See Transfers Explained for an overview.
4. You Confirm the Transfer
When the plate has been officially reassigned or you’ve received the correct transfer documents, you’ll log in and confirm everything is in order. This unlocks the final step.
5. Release of the Funds
Once you approve the transfer, payment is released to the seller. If there’s any issue, Escrow.com has a dispute process that protects both sides. (Learn more: Escrow dispute process.)
How Long Does It All Take?
From start to finish, the average end-to-end process takes about 14 days. Most of that time is spent on the plate transfer, which depends on state turnaround times and documentation requirements.
You can streamline this even further by ensuring you have already completed the groundwork for the transfer—we recommend allowing two weeks from purchase to completion.
Need help?
Our Pit Crew can guide you through ID, payment and state-specific transfer steps. Reach out any time.
