How Minnesota Handles Manufactured Home Titles
In Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety — Driver and Vehicle Services (MN DVS) is responsible for issuing and transferring manufactured home titles. Minnesota uses a network of Deputy Registrars — private offices licensed by the state — for most title transactions. These are often located in insurance agencies, car dealerships, and other convenient locations. You do not need to go to a state government office for most manufactured home title transfers in Minnesota.
Before filing anything, call MN DVS at (651) 297-2126 and describe your situation. Their staff can confirm which current form version you need and whether your documents are complete — a 10-minute call that prevents weeks of delay from a rejected submission.
Required Forms
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| PS2000 | Minnesota Application for Certificate of Title — manufactured homes |
| PS2030 | Lien Release |
| Lien Release (lender form) | Required if a lender is listed on the current title — must be obtained from the lender and submitted with the transfer |
| Heirship / Small Estate Affidavit | Used when transferring after the owner’s death if the estate qualifies under Minnesota’s small estate threshold |
Step-by-Step: Standard Sale Transfer
- Obtain the current title from the seller — The seller’s name on the title must match their government-issued ID exactly. Check for any lienholder listed on the front of the title document.
- Have the seller sign the title assignment section — The seller signs the back of the title in the designated assignment area. If two names appear on the title, both must sign unless the title specifies survivorship rights (e.g., “or” vs. “and”).
- Resolve any liens — If a lender is listed, obtain a signed lien release before filing. MN DVS will not issue a clean title while an active lien is recorded.
- Complete the transfer application (PS2000) — Fill in all required fields. Download the current version from the agency’s official website on the day you file — forms change periodically.
- Submit to MN DVS — File in person at the appropriate office or by mail. Include all forms, the original signed title, and payment.
- Receive new title — MN DVS issues a new title in the buyer’s name. Store it securely — replacement titles take additional time and fees.
Fee Schedule (2025)
| Transaction Type | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard title transfer (sale) | $8.25 title fee + filing fee |
| Duplicate / replacement title | Typically $10–$50 |
| Estate / heirship transfer | Same as standard transfer fee |
| Lien filing (new lender) | $2–$15 |
| Estimated total | $50–$150 |
Always confirm current fees with MN DVS at (651) 297-2126 before filing — fee schedules change.
Timeline in Minnesota
Deputy registrar offices (third-party agents): same-day to 2 business days. Mail to DVS: 3–5 weeks.
Documents Required for Every Transfer
- Current title document (original — not a photocopy)
- Completed PS2000 (downloaded from MN DVS website on day of filing)
- Government-issued photo ID for all signing parties
- Lien release from lender (if lienholder listed on title)
- Payment for fees
- For estate transfers: certified death certificate + signed heirship affidavit
Frequently Asked Questions
Manufactured homes on tribal land in Minnesota may have unique title considerations depending on the specific tribe's regulations and whether the land is held in trust. Contact the Minnesota DVS and the relevant tribal government for guidance specific to your situation.
Minnesota allows a small estate affidavit for estates under $75,000. This covers most manufactured home estate transfers without requiring formal probate.
Never pay in full for a home with an active lien without a formal arrangement to clear it. The safest approach is to use an escrow: the seller's loan is paid off from the purchase price at closing, the lender releases the lien simultaneously, and only then does the title transfer to you. Contact MN DVS at (651) 297-2126 to confirm the lien status using the home's serial number before committing to any purchase.
File a duplicate title application with MN DVS using form PS2000 or the state's specific duplicate title form. You will need the home's serial number (found on the HUD data plate inside a cabinet or on the steel chassis frame), your photo ID, and payment of the duplicate fee. If there is a lienholder on the title, most states send the duplicate to the lienholder unless they provide written consent for you to receive it.
Related: After-Death Transfers · Lien Release Guide · Lost Title · Path Finder Tool