The Short Answer

In Pennsylvania, a deceased person’s vehicle can usually be kept legally on the road for a limited time by an heir or the personal representative, but the registration generally must be renewed in the name of the decedent’s estate. Actually transferring ownership (title) into your name often depends on whether there is an open estate, who has authority to act for the estate, and whether there are other heirs, liens, or unpaid debts.

What Pennsylvania Law Says

When a vehicle owner dies, Pennsylvania law allows the vehicle to continue being operated by or for an heir or the decedent’s personal representative during the current registration period and the next registration period, as long as the registration is renewed in the name of the decedent’s estate. In some situations, renewals can continue in the estate’s name until the estate’s final account is approved by the court.

The Statute

The primary law governing this issue is 75 Pa.C.S. § 1315.

This statute establishes that, after the owner’s death, the vehicle may be operated by an heir or personal representative for a limited period, provided the registration is renewed in the name of the decedent’s estate, and it may continue to be renewed in the estate’s name in certain circumstances until the court approves the final account.

Why You Should Speak with an Attorney

While the statute provides the general rule, applying it to your specific situation is rarely simple. Legal outcomes often depend on:

• Strict Deadlines: The ability to operate the vehicle under the decedent’s registration is time-limited (current registration period and the next following registration period), and continuing beyond that can require estate-based renewals tied to court approval of the final account. See 75 Pa.C.S. § 1315.
• Burden of Proof: PennDOT and other parties may require proof of who has legal authority (for example, whether there is a personal representative) and who is entitled to the vehicle, especially if there are multiple heirs or a dispute.
• Exceptions: Issues like liens, competing heir claims, or whether a formal estate needs to be opened can change the correct approach and create personal liability risks if handled incorrectly.

Trying to handle this alone can lead to rejected paperwork, delays, or disputes that escalate into probate litigation.

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Disclaimer: This article provides general information under Pennsylvania law and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed attorney.