I am transferring my old license plates to my new car - do I need the title to the old car to do this in Illinois?

I would phone and ask. I don’t see the answer on the Secretary of State’s web site, and the VSD 190 Title and Registration Application is not online..

How to Apply for Title and Registration
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/vehicles/title_registration/apply.html

Title and Registration – Tips for Properly Completing Your Applications
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/vsd293.pdf

“Application to Complete

You must fill out the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190).

* Check Transfer or Title and Transfer if the applicant wants to transfer current plates.
* The fee for Transfer Only is $25, and the fee for Title and Transfer is $120. ($95 title fee, $25 transfer fee)
* Make sure the correct vehicle information and the correct license plate number being transferred are filled in on the application.
* Enclose the most recent vehicle registration identification card for the license plate number being transferred.
* If the new vehicle will be owned by one person, but the last vehicle was registered in two or more names, the individuals whose names will no longer be appearing as owners on the new vehicle must release their interest in the license plates being transferred by writing and signing such a statement. This statement must include the Illinois license plate number.”

“n Illinois, license plates belong to an owner, not the vehicle. Therefore, you cannot transfer ownership of license plates when you sell a car or transfer a title. You can only transfer license plates to another vehicle you own.”

Source

If you still have possession of the Grand Prix, you may need to surrender the valid Registration Card upon application for a title and Registration of the Accord. And don’t forget Insurance Card for the Accord.

Question resolved! The old car’s title is not required! All you need is a bunch of money (~$145), the registration for the old car, and the title for the new car.

You need a screwdriver.