Vehicle Title Bond Guide

What is a bonded title?

A bonded title is a vehicle title backed by a surety bond. It gives you the same rights as a standard title — you can register, insure and sell the vehicle — and it's what a DMV issues when the original title can't be produced because it was lost, stolen, damaged or otherwise nontransferable. Bonded titles apply to more than just cars: motorcycles, trailers, mobile homes, watercraft, snowmobiles and similar vehicles can all qualify.

What is a title bond?

A title bond is the surety bond behind a bonded title. It establishes that you are the rightful owner while financially protecting the state, any previous owners and any lienholders. If someone later proves they have a valid claim to the vehicle, the bond is what covers the resulting loss. You may see the same product called a certificate of title bond, a lost title bond, or a defective vehicle title bond — they refer to the same thing.

How do title bonds work?

When you can't provide a valid title, your DMV will usually require a title bond before it will issue a bonded title. The bond guarantees that you are the true owner and holds you financially responsible if another party establishes ownership. After you've held the bond for about three years with no claims filed against it, the DMV releases the bond and issues a conventional title.

How much does a title bond cost?

Pricing depends on the vehicle's value. Most states set the bond amount (the coverage) at roughly 1.5 times the vehicle's appraised retail value. For coverage under $50,000 you'll typically pay a flat rate of about $15 per $1,000 of coverage, with a $100 minimum. Above $50,000, the premium is set by underwriting review, which usually involves a soft credit check to determine your personalized rate.

Why might I need a certificate of title bond?

A title bond is commonly required when:

• The original title was lost or stolen
• You paid for the vehicle but never received the title, and the seller or lender is no longer in business
• The vehicle is old enough that it never had a title
• The vehicle was custom-built

If you simply need a duplicate of an existing title, you usually won't need a bond — a replacement title is a different process.

How do I get a title bond?

Most title bonds can be purchased online or over the phone. To apply, have this ready:

• Your name exactly as it appears on your driver's license
• Your address
• The vehicle's year, make and model
• The vehicle identification number (VIN)
• The vehicle's value, as determined by your DMV's appraisal

Once your application is approved and payment clears, the bond is issued. You'll receive the original bond document to sign and file with your DMV.

How long does it take to get a bonded title?

Bonds themselves are often issued the same day — orders placed before 4 p.m. CST on a weekday are typically sent out that day, and overnight shipping is available if you need the physical form quickly. After you file the signed bond with your licensing office, the DMV's bonded-title approval usually takes about 4–5 weeks, depending on the state.

Get a title bond in your state

Title bonds are available in all 50 states and Washington DC. Pick your state to search available title bonds and start a quote.

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Bond amounts and requirements are set by each state's DMV and are subject to underwriting.