Can you look up a car title online?

Yes, you can check a vehicle’s title status and history online through official databases and many state DMV tools, but you generally cannot view the actual title document unless you’re the owner or lienholder using a verified state portal. In practice, buyers and owners use the VIN to pull title brands (such as salvage or rebuilt), lien information, and status via the national NMVTIS database and state-specific lookup services.

What “looking up a title” really means

When people say “look up a car title,” they usually mean verifying the title’s status—whether it’s clean, branded (salvage, rebuilt, flood, etc.), has an active lien, or matches the seller’s story. That information is widely available online. Viewing or downloading the actual title document, however, is different and usually restricted to the titled owner or lienholder through a secure state account. U.S. privacy laws (notably the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act) limit access to personal details like the owner’s name and address unless you have a legally permissible purpose.

Where to search online

National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS)

NMVTIS is the U.S. government-mandated database of state-reported title brands, odometer readings, and total-loss/salvage records. Consumers access it through approved providers listed at the official site vehiclehistory.gov. Reports typically cost a few dollars and are a core, widely accepted check before buying a used vehicle.

NICB free VINCheck (limited but useful)

The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers a free VINCheck that can show if a vehicle was reported as stolen or as a total loss by participating insurers. It’s not a full title history and doesn’t replace NMVTIS, but it’s a helpful, no-cost supplement.

State DMV/transportation portals and title-status tools

Many states offer online tools that let you check a vehicle’s title and registration status by VIN or license plate. Some states show lien information and brands; others provide only basic status. Availability and depth vary.

• Florida: Public “Motor Vehicle Information Check” shows title status, brands, and lien data.
• Texas: Online “Title Check” directs you to NMVTIS and state resources for brand verification.
• Georgia and Ohio: Title/registration status lookups by VIN or plate are available via state portals.
• Other states: Many have similar tools; search your state’s official DMV or Department of Transportation site.

These state tools are often free or low cost and are best used alongside an NMVTIS report for a more complete picture.

Owner portals for electronic titles

If you’re the titled owner, some states let you view an electronic title (and request a paper title) after verifying your identity in an official account. Examples include Arizona’s AZ MVD Now and Florida’s e-Title services. Access is restricted to the owner or lienholder and may require multi-factor authentication.

What you cannot do online

– View or download someone else’s actual title document without authorization.

– See protected personal information (owner name/address) without a permissible legal purpose.

– “Clear” a lien or remove a brand; only the lienholder and the state can update that status after proper documentation.

Step-by-step: verifying a car’s title before you buy

The following steps outline a prudent, widely used process to verify a vehicle’s title status and reduce risk when purchasing a used car.

1. Get the full 17-character VIN directly from the car (dashboard or door jamb) and ensure it matches the seller’s paperwork.
2. Run an NMVTIS report via an approved provider listed at vehiclehistory.gov to check title brands, odometer readings, and total-loss/salvage records.
3. Use your state’s DMV online lookup (and the seller’s state, if different) to confirm current title status and any recorded liens.
4. Ask the seller to show the physical title (or verified e-title screen) and a government ID; names should match exactly.
5. If a lien is listed, obtain a lien release letter directly from the lienholder or complete payoff/escrow arrangements that guarantee release before payment.
6. Compare odometer readings across the title, NMVTIS, maintenance records, and dashboard to detect inconsistencies.
7. Keep copies/screenshots of all lookups and receipts; you may need them for registration or dispute resolution.

Following these steps helps confirm the vehicle’s legal status and reduces surprises after purchase.

Getting a replacement (duplicate) title

Only the titled owner or lienholder can request a duplicate title. Many states let you initiate this online after identity verification; some require a mail-in form or in-person visit.

Here’s the typical process to obtain a duplicate title in most states:

• Confirm the vehicle information (VIN, plate) and your identity through the state’s official DMV portal.
• Check whether a lien is active; unresolved liens usually prevent issuing a paper title to the owner.
• Submit the duplicate title application online or by mail and pay the required fee.
• Receive the duplicate title by mail, or convert an electronic title to paper if the state offers that option.

Processing times vary by state; electronic confirmations can be immediate, while mailed paper titles may take several business days to a few weeks.

Costs, timing, and limitations

– NMVTIS consumer reports typically cost a few dollars per VIN through approved providers. State lookups range from free to a small fee. Duplicate title fees vary by state. Results generally post immediately online, while official paper titles can take days or weeks to arrive by mail.

Privacy and legal considerations

Access to personal motor vehicle records is restricted by federal and state laws, especially the DPPA. Use only official state portals and the DOJ’s vehiclehistory.gov-listed NMVTIS providers. Avoid third-party sites that promise owner names or “instant titles”—these are often misleading or unlawful.

Red flags and practical tips

Keep these risk signals and best practices in mind whenever you research a car’s title online.

• VIN mismatch between the vehicle, title, and bill of sale.
• Seller cannot produce ID, a lien release, or a title that matches their name.
• “Title washing” indicators: recent out-of-state transfers following a total-loss or salvage brand.
• Websites not referenced by your state DMV or vehiclehistory.gov; avoid entering sensitive data on unofficial portals.
• For interstate purchases, consider licensed escrow services or completing the transaction at a DMV office.

Spotting these issues early can prevent costly legal and mechanical problems down the road.

Summary

You can absolutely check a car’s title status online: start with an NMVTIS report via an approved provider and your state’s DMV lookup. These tools reveal title brands, basic status, and often liens, but the full title document is generally accessible only to the owner or lienholder through a secure state portal. Use official channels, verify identities and lien releases, and keep records of all checks to ensure a clean, lawful purchase or transfer.

Can I get my car title online in Ohio?

Yes, you can get a copy of your Ohio car title online through the official Ohio Title Portal (OTP) or via a third-party service like eTags. The Ohio Title Portal allows buyers to apply for a new title electronically, while services like eTags offer assistance with obtaining a duplicate or electronic title. 
Using the Ohio Title Portal (OTP)

1. Access the portal: Visit the Ohio BMV website to access the OTP. 
2. Apply for an electronic title: The portal allows you to apply for a new title electronically, offering an alternative to visiting a county title office in person. 
3. Access vehicle information: As a vehicle owner, you can also use the portal to view your vehicle’s information. 

Using a Third-Party Service (e.g., eTags) 

1. Visit the service’s website: Go to a service’s website, such as eTags. 
2. Complete the application: Answer questions about your vehicle and yourself to complete the application for a duplicate or electronic title. 
3. Provide necessary information: You will need your driver’s license or ID, the VIN, and vehicle owner information, and you may need to provide images of your ID. 
4. Receive your title: Your new title will be mailed to the address you provide. 

In-Person Application
For those who prefer to apply in person, you can visit any Ohio County Clerk of Courts title office with a valid photo ID and the required fees to receive your title on the spot.

Can you do a vehicle title search online?

You can conduct a vehicle title search online using either a government or third-party website, depending on your preference. The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System is one good way to get a vehicle’s history through an easy-to-access online database.

Is an Ohio title search public record?

However, please be advised that government agencies are prohibited from sharing the NMVTIS information with the Public , so that information will not be displayed in the title search results.

Can I do a title search on a vehicle?

And paying any required fees the DMV will provide you with a detailed report on the car’s title. History including information on past owners leans. And whether the title is clean or salvage.