Q&A for How to Register a Car Without a Title

Typically, yes. You need the title to register the car. However, if you don't have the title, you can just acquire that first at the DMV. It's a little bit different in each state, but it's not going to be super complicated most of the time.

The owner from whom you purchased the vehicle needs to do one of two things: Send the title in to the state, with an affidavit attached saying the title was filled out in error, or have the previous owner file for lost title. When they receive the new title, they can sign it over to you.

It's usually one to two weeks. A speedy title can be requested, which takes two to three days.

In some states, gifting a vehicle has become a notarized transaction in order to verify the gifting process and ensure that the new owner isn't attempting to circumvent the payment of taxes. So getting the previous owner to affirm his signature to that notarized document is one issue since you say they are no longer reachable. With that said, since there is no title and no contact with the previous owner, states will require you to perform some kind of bonding process. This can be done on your own or with the help of a vehicle title service. Thetitlestor.com offers free consult and estimates.

You need a copy of the title to complete the purchase or you will have to follow the steps in this article. It really depends on the state that you live in.

Generally no, but it depends on your state.

If the car is already in your name and you have previously purchased registration before in MA, yes.

It sounds like you were title jumped. Getting a bonded title might be your best solution. You can check to see if getting a bonded title is an option in your state online.

Depending on the state you live in, your vehicle may be eligible for a bonded title. If your state doesn't offer that option, you might be able to get a court-ordered title for your vehicle.

If your title is currently registered under your name, most states have the option to get a replacement title from the DMV. Once you receive your replacement title, you are able to transfer the title to the other party.

Speak to the DMV to see if your car is eligible for a bonded title. If your car is eligible for a bonded title, you would need to purchase a certificate of title surety bond at 1.5 times the value of your car.

If the owner has title in his/her name, you can register for a title in your name and have them as lien holder on it. Make sure to also have a written statement of how many payments and when the vehicle should be paid off as well as a bill of sale.

No. Instead, you may be able to apply for temporary tags to drive the vehicle to get it repaired and inspected prior to getting it registered. This is usually not an option for salvage title vehicles though.

You need to get the car registered and get license plates. To do that, you need the title and bill of sale. The bank usually does not hold title but a title interest document The seller should have a title document he can transfer to you. You could get a new title in your name and get the car registered prior to removing the lien. Never give a seller money without transferring the title and getting a written assurance that the lien will get paid off. Ask the seller to withhold the lien amount so you can pay off the loan or go to the lending bank with the seller to pay off the loan and complete the deal.

Yes, this is possible. If you are of legal age, you can register the car with a proper ID, such as a passport. However, some states may require a driver's license as proof of identity/age. You cannot legally drive it unless you have a license though.