[NV] My father recently died. Can my friend sell his car on my behalf by taking a POA to the DMV?
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No. A POA is invalid after death, and since the estate is over $25,000, DMV will NOT allow it.
Because the estate (car + $32k) exceeds $25,000, you must open probate in Nevada first.
Once the court appoints you as executor/personal representative:
- You receive Letters Testamentary
- Those allow you (or someone you authorize) to transfer or sell the vehicle
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My father recently died and I received his death certificate. He lived in Henderson, NV and I live in Chicago.
I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Were you named as an heir in his will?
Yes, I am his heir and executor in his will.
Do you know if your father had any assets or property in Henderson, NV?
Yes.
I’d like his friend to sell his car with this form. Do I use the Nevada version of the form?
Hello, my name is Andres Sanchez and I am an attorney with 20 years of experience. I am sorry for your loss.
Since your father lived in Nevada and the vehicle is titled there, you will need to use Nevada-specific DMV forms and follow Nevada DMV procedures.
If the title had a TOD (Transfer on Death) beneficiary:
- Submit certified death certificate
- Original title
- VP 241 (TOD affidavit)
- $20 fee
If there is no TOD:
- You may use VP 024 (Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate) ONLY IF the estate is under $25,000 (or $100,000 for a surviving spouse).
I'm trying to sign a temporary POA for his friend to do it, since I don't live there.
His bank account has about $32,000 in it.
Since the estate is over $25,000, you CANNOT use the VP 024 small-estate affidavit. A POA also cannot be used after death — all POAs end at death.
So will the form work if I send my friend with the POA form (notarized), car title, original death certificate to the DMV?
No. A POA is invalid after death, and since the estate is over $25,000, DMV will NOT allow it.
Because the estate (car + $32k) exceeds $25,000, you must open probate in Nevada first.
Once the court appoints you as executor/personal representative:
- You receive Letters Testamentary
- Those allow you (or someone you authorize) to transfer or sell the vehicle
How long does it take?
For Nevada summary administration (estate under $100k):
1. File petition: Day 1
2. Court review/hearing: 4–6 weeks
3. Receive letters: Shortly after hearing
4. Close estate: ~2–4 months total
Do I have to come to court in person?
Usually no.
Nevada (especially Clark County) allows:
- Remote video appearances
- Phone appearances
Sometimes probate is approved without a hearing.
