Can a Title be Obtained with a Bill of Sale?
Yes. Although the new owner will need to obtain a bonded title, which functions in a similar fashion as an original title. Because a title is the most important document pertaining to ownership, the buyer will need significant proof that they are the rightful owner of the vehicle. There are a number of situations in which the buyer may not be in possession of the original title; they may have lost it, not received it during the vehicle transfer, it wasn’t properly assigned to them, or it was received as a gift without a title.
While the process can differ significantly state by state, the following are the most-likely steps the DMV will require the new owner to take in obtaining a title:
Attempt to acquire the vehicle’s title (perhaps by contacting the previous owner).
Complete any and all required forms from the DMV.
Pay the necessary taxes and fees.
Receive the bonded title.
A notable difference in a normal title and a bonded title is that the bonded title can be disputed. Depending on the state, the bonded title can be disputed for up to three (3) years after it was obtained.