Can You Sell a Car If You Lost the Title?
Every car that is sold in the United States must possess a title; therefore, you cannot sell your car if you have lost its title. Luckily, obtaining a new title is fairly easy and will get that hunk of junk out of your driveway in no time.
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DMV
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The title to a car is typically not necessary to have unless you need to prove ownership or sell the vehicle. The first step to obtaining a lost title is finding the nearest Department of Motor Vehicles in your city or county. A listing of the national DMVs can be found at www.DMV.org.
Applying for a Lost Title
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Each state will have its own forms that you need to fill out, but the Duplicate Title Form will ask you for your name, address, description of vehicle, and types of usage. In addition, you will need to bring copies of your vehicle's registration, vehicle identification number (VIN), and proof of insurance to receive the duplicate title.
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Fees and Processing
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The fee for a duplicate title can range from $20 to $50, depending on the state, and processing also varies in each municipality. Typically, a new title will be mailed to the recipient within five business days of application. Also, some jurisdictions offer an expedited title service for an extra fee, which allows the DMV to print the title while the consumer waits. Consumers may also mail their forms into the local DMV office with the appropriate payment attached.
Title Transfers
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When selling your used vehicle to an individual, you will need to apply for a title transfer. This form, also available from the DMV, will ask for the name of the seller, the name of the buyer, vehicle description information, and the amount of money the car was purchased for. The buyer is responsible for paying all taxes associated with the sale of the car.
Liens
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Before a duplicate title is issued, all liens on the vehicle must be paid. Also, any lienholder information must be listed on the duplicate title form.
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