You can also go directly to your state’s DMV website. Here you’ll find downloadable paperwork, as well as helpful phone numbers and addresses for offices you may need to visit. Expect to fill out an application (to either transfer or replace a title), and have information such as the vehicle’s VIN number, odometer reading, and a bill of sale.
Do not make changes to an existing title. The title holder will complete paperwork indicating transfer of ownership and you will be issued a new title. There cannot be an outstanding loan against a vehicle while transferring the title, unless the transfer is approved by the lender. The odometer reading (at time of transfer) and VIN numbers on the vehicle must match those in the paperwork.
If you have your title but it has been damaged, bring it to your local Secretary of State or DMV office.
Check your state’s DMV website for the eligibility requirements for a bonded title in your state. These will usually include residence in the state where you hope to title the vehicle.
Note that a vehicle that has legally been deemed abandoned, junked, or stolen, or is involved in a pending lawsuit will not be eligible for a new title.
Keep in mind that you do not have to pay the state or the insurance company the value of your vehicle. While there will be some fee involved with the purchase of the bond itself, the bond is simply a legal instrument that makes you financially responsible for ownership of the vehicle.
The federal DMV website also has information about registration requirements in each U. S. state. Current registration is required in every U. S. state. While some states require you to update your registration annually, registration lasts longer in some states.
You can also find information about applicable fees and taxes. Be ready to pay these when you register your car.
Bring along your title, proof of insurance, and emission test results or smog check paperwork if these are required in your state. Note that many states use your vehicles VIN as the vehicle registration number.
