How to Trade in a Car Without the Title
Depending on the capability of the dealer you're trading to and your state's rules, trading your vehicle without the title might be possible. Many dealerships can order a title replacement, if necessary. However, if you are not the titled owner of the car, you must obtain the title from the owner or have him order a replacement himself. Follow any instruction given by your dealer. He is likely up-to-date on motor vehicle requirements. Many dealers are authorized to complete motor vehicle transactions on a customer's behalf.
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Instructions
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Dealer Title Replacement
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Call your salesperson and tell her you can't find your title. If the dealer allows, it will handle your title replacement for you, although you likely have to go back after the title arrives to sign it unless otherwise stated.
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Give your salesperson a copy of your registration. She should already have this if you have picked out a vehicle and you are ready to trade. The dealer will make sure only your name is listed on the registration and run a title check to ensure no problems exist with the title, such as a lien you didn't mention.
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Sign authorization forms provided by your dealer so it can obtain your title. Depending on the dealer and your state, this might be a Power of Attorney form, which allows the dealer to obtain and sign the title on your behalf. Or you may have to fill out a duplicate title form with the dealer and return to sign the title once you or the dealer recieves it by mail.
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Pay the dealer for the duplicate title fee and rush fee, if applicable. The dealer decide the amount of these charges, but he simply transfers the state-required charge to you. The fees are the same you'd pay if obtaining it yourself. If the title goes to your home, bring it to the dealer immediately and sign where the dealer representative tells you to.
Ordering a Title Replacement
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Go to a state motor vehicle office with your license and proof of VIN (vehicle identification number), which is listed on a registration receipt or insurance card. If you are unsure where to go, visit your state's motor vehicle website to obtain phone numbers and locations of nearby offices.
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Ask a motor vehicle representative which form to fill out to obtain a copy of your title. Fill it out and submit your information to the representative. Many states do not offer an instant title.
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Ask the representative if you can pay to rush the title if the office does not offer an instant option. Either way, find out how long you might wait until you receive the duplicate. Let your dealership know when you expect to return with the title. Bring it in as soon as you receive it.
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Tips & Warnings
To prevent signing your title in the wrong area, which voids the title and requires a new order, wait to sign the title in front of a dealer representative.
If you have a co-owner listed on your title, he must also sign it. Ask your dealer for details.
