How Do I Get a Title for an Untitled Vehicle?

Car

If you own an untitled vehicle, you must obtain a title in your name before you can insure, register or operate it. Most states handle this problem by requiring that the title applicant deposit a state-determined bond and affixing the notation "bonded" to the certificate of title in case the titleholder surfaces and demands compensation. The amount of the bond is often greater than the book value of the vehicle.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of residency
• Photo ID
• Statement of physical inspection
• Official inspection report
• Application for bonded title

Instructions

1. Search the exterior and interior of the vehicle for the Vehicle Identification Number. The VIN is engraved on the surface, but the location depends on the vehicle's make, model and year.

2. Use the VIN to obtain a Vehicle History Report (see Resources section). This report will tell you whether the vehicle has been reported stolen and whether there is an owner of record. If the vehicle has been reported stolen, turn it in to the police. If it has not been reported stolen and if there is no owner of record, you will need to apply for a bonded title.

3. Check the website of your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or the equivalent office) to determine the procedures for applying for a bonded title. Download all required documentation. You will likely need a physical inspection statement, an official inspection form and an application for a bonded title.

4. Fill out the physical inspection form and sign it. You will need to report the car's make, model, color and year along with the VIN.

5. Have the vehicle transported to a state-approved inspector. Have the inspector examine the vehicle and fill out the official inspection report.

6. Complete and sign an application for a bonded title. You will need to report details abut the vehicle and explain how you came into possession of it. If you purchased it, you may need to identify the seller and draw up a bill of sale that you and the seller must sign.

7. Deliver the application for a bonded title, the official inspection report, the physical inspection form and proof of state residency (a local driver's license will suffice) to your state's DMV. The DMV will notify you in writing of the amount of the bond you must deposit.

8. Take the DMV notification to any major auto insurer and purchase a surety bond in the amount specified by the DMV. The insurer will issue you a receipt.

9. Take your receipt to the DMV (or the state office that issues bonded titles) and apply for a bonded title. Your title will be issued within a few working days.

Tips & Warnings

• If the title has been lost but the identity of the owner is known, you do not need a bonded title. Simply have the owner obtain a duplicate title and transfer it into your name.

• The bonded title notation will remain on the title for a statutory period (typically three years or so). If another person claims title to your vehicle, he can sue you. If he wins, the amount of the judgment will be taken out of your bond, but you may keep the vehicle.

References

• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles: Bonded Title Procedure
• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Bonded Title
• Lawrence Auto Title: FAQ

Resources

• Carfax: Vehicle History Reports