How to Find the Owner of a Car When the Title Is Lost

Finding the owner of a vehicle is possible.

When the title of a car has been lost, locating the owner may seem like a daunting task. While it may take some leg work on your part, it is possible to find the owner.

Things You'll Need

• License plate numbers VIN number Money Identification

Instructions

1. Write down the license plate number of the vehicle. Thoroughly check the digits to be sure there is no oversight. Look at the top of the license plate to find out the state where it is registered.

2. Write down the car’s vehicle identification number. These numbers are etched into the car's dashboard and are visible from the outside. However, if the numbers are not visible, they are also on a label affixed to the side panel of the driver’s side door.

3. Contact Auto Check or CarFax and purchase a full history report of the vehicle. The report does not provide the address of the person, but the name, registration date and title number are available. The average cost for a full history report is $29.99.

4. Record the title number and visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles to perform a search of the owner. A fee may be imposed, depending upon the location. For security purposes, not all of the owner’s information is available, unless you were the victim of a hit and run or unlawful sale, or are imposing a lien on the property. If this is the case, you will be referred to the police department to obtain that information.

References

• CARFAX: Free Sample Report
• Auto Check: How to Purchase an Auto Report