How a Car Gets a Title

A car gets a title when your state’s motor vehicle agency (DMV, MVD, or BMV) issues an ownership document after you submit proof of ownership (such as a Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin for new cars or a signed previous title for used cars), verify the odometer reading, provide identification and insurance, pay taxes and fees, and resolve any liens; dealers usually file this for you, and the title arrives by mail or electronically within a few days to several weeks.

What a Vehicle Title Is—and Why It Matters

A vehicle title is the legal proof of ownership issued by a state authority. It lists the owner(s), any lienholder (lender), the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and any “brand” (for example, salvage, rebuilt, flood, lemon buyback). It’s distinct from registration, which permits driving the car on public roads and assigns plates. You need a valid title to transfer ownership, secure financing, and, in many states, to register the vehicle.

How a New Car Gets Titled

Most new vehicles are titled by the selling dealer, who forwards your paperwork and taxes to the state. If you buy a new vehicle without dealer involvement (rare, such as certain specialty or imported vehicles), you submit the documents yourself.

Here’s how the process typically works for new cars:

• The dealer collects your identification, proof of insurance, and payment details and prepares the title application.
• The primary proof of ownership is the Manufacturer’s Certificate/Statement of Origin (MCO/MSO), which the dealer submits to the state.
• You pay title, registration, and sales/use taxes; the dealer usually remits these to the state on your behalf.
• If you finance, the lender is recorded as a lienholder; your title will be electronic or mailed to the lender until the loan is paid off.
• The state issues the title—paper or electronic—and mails registration and plates (or temporary tags are replaced with permanent ones).

Once processed, you’ll receive confirmation of ownership: a paper title mailed to you (if there’s no lien and your state allows paper titles) or an electronic title held on record until any lien is released.

How a Used Car Gets Titled (Private Sale)

In a private-party transaction, the buyer submits documents to the state to transfer ownership. The seller signs over the existing title; the buyer then applies for a new one in their name.

These are the usual steps for a private-party used-car title transfer:

1. Seller signs the title over to the buyer, completing required fields such as buyer name(s), sale date, price, and current odometer reading. Many states require an odometer disclosure; under federal rules, vehicles model year 2011 and newer require disclosure until they are 20 years old.
2. Both parties complete a bill of sale if required (some states mandate it; it’s useful everywhere).
3. If a lender has a lien on the car, the seller must obtain a lien release or payoff letter so the title can be transferred free of liens.
4. Buyer obtains insurance and, where required, emissions and/or safety inspections before titling/registration.
5. Buyer submits the title, application form, ID, proof of address, insurance, and fees/taxes to the state within the deadline (often 10–30 days after purchase).
6. The state issues a new title listing the buyer as owner and any lender as lienholder.

Provided the paperwork is complete and any lien is cleared, the state will record the transfer and mail or electronically issue the new title within the posted processing timeframe.

Special Situations and Variations

Different transactions call for extra steps or documentation. The scenarios below cover the most common variations and what you should prepare.

Buying From a Dealer (Used Vehicles)

Franchise and independent dealers typically handle titling and taxes, which simplifies the process for buyers.

• Dealer submits your title application and collects fees and taxes.
• Dealer resolves any prior lien and obtains a lien release before transfer.
• You receive plates/registration and the title (or electronic title) after state processing.

This arrangement reduces paperwork errors and often expedites issuance, though you should still confirm when and how you’ll receive the finalized title.

Out-of-State Purchases

When buying across state lines, you typically title the car in your home state, surrendering the previous state’s title.

• Verify the VIN and title status before purchase; check for brands and ensure the seller’s name matches the title.
• Obtain a bill of sale and, if required, a notarized title transfer.
• Complete your home state’s inspections (VIN verification, emissions/safety) and pay your home state’s taxes and fees.
• Your home state issues a new title and cancels the old state’s record.

Expect an additional VIN inspection or paperwork check when retitling across states, which helps prevent fraud and duplicate titling.

Financing and Liens

When a lender finances your purchase, they’re recorded as a lienholder, and the title is often electronic or mailed to the lender.

• State records the lien; you typically receive registration but not the paper title.
• After payoff, the lender issues a lien release (or electronically releases it).
• You apply, if needed, to obtain a clear title in your name only; some states automatically mail a clear paper title after electronic lien release.

Always keep proof of payoff and lien release; it’s required to sell or retitle the vehicle.

No Title on Hand: Bonded or Duplicate Title

If the seller can’t provide a valid title, or if records are incomplete, states may allow a bonded title or issue a duplicate to the titled owner.

• Duplicate title: The titled owner requests a replacement from the state, then signs it over.
• Bonded title: You purchase a surety bond (often 1.5–2 times the vehicle’s value) and apply for a bonded title after a VIN inspection and records search.
• Waiting periods and public notices may apply, depending on the state.

Use bonded titles cautiously; they signal uncertainty about prior ownership and can affect resale until the bond period expires.

Salvage and Rebuilt Vehicles

Vehicles declared total losses receive a salvage brand; they can return to the road only after repairs and inspections.

• After repair, apply for a rebuilt/reconstructed title and complete required safety and anti-theft inspections.
• Provide receipts for major parts and photos documenting repairs.
• Expect stricter scrutiny and, sometimes, limitations on financing or insurance.

These brands remain on the title permanently and must be disclosed to future buyers.

Inherited or Gifted Vehicles

Transfers without a purchase price still require title paperwork, with proof of relationship or estate authority.

• Gifts: Provide a gift affidavit (if required) to address taxes; some states waive or reduce tax for qualifying family gifts.
• Inheritance: Submit death certificate, letters testamentary/administration, and the title; some states offer a small-estate affidavit.
• Survivorship: Co-owners with rights of survivorship may retitle with a simplified process.

Check your state’s forms and tax rules; documentation varies and affects fees.

Name Changes or Adding/Removing an Owner

Updating ownership details requires a title correction or transfer, sometimes with notarization.

• Provide legal proof of name change (court order, marriage certificate).
• For adding/removing co-owners, both parties typically sign the title and application.
• Choose the right ownership designation (and, where available, right of survivorship).

Title changes often trigger new registration cards and may incur modest fees.

Lease Buyouts

When you buy out a lease, the title moves from the leasing company to you.

• Leasing company provides title or electronic release and a bill of sale or odometer statement.
• You pay taxes due on the buyout and submit the title application.
• The state issues a new title naming you as owner and, if applicable, your lender as lienholder.

Processing times are similar to standard transfers, but confirm who remits taxes (you or the lessor) per state rules.

Common Documents and Typical Fees

Most transactions require a consistent set of documents that prove identity, ownership, and vehicle details. Having these ready helps avoid delays.

• Signed title (or MCO/MSO for new vehicles) and, if needed, a bill of sale.
• Government-issued ID and proof of address.
• Proof of insurance (state-specific requirements apply).
• Odometer disclosure statement (generally required for model year 2011+ until the vehicle is 20 years old).
• VIN verification and/or emissions/safety inspection, if required.
• Lien release or payoff letter if the vehicle was previously financed.

Submitting complete, legible documents—often with notarization where required—reduces the chance your application is rejected or delayed.

States charge a mix of one-time and recurring fees and taxes when you title and register a vehicle. Budget for these at purchase.

• Title fee and registration fee (varies by state and vehicle weight).
• Sales or use tax (based on purchase price or book value).
• Lien recording fee if financed.
• Inspection and emissions testing fees where applicable.
• Optional expedited processing or same-day title service in some states.

While exact amounts vary widely, many states offer online fee calculators and publish current rates to help you estimate total costs before you file.

Electronic Titles, Processing Times, and 2025 Landscape

Many states now support electronic titling and Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) systems. That means your title may exist digitally—especially if a lienholder is involved—until you request a printed copy or the lien is released. Processing time for a new or transferred title typically ranges from a few business days to several weeks, with some states offering expedited options for an added fee. When moving across states, expect extra verification steps that can extend timelines. Check your state DMV site for current e-title capabilities, appointment requirements, and whether you can file online or must appear in person.

Tips to Avoid Delays or Fraud

A few careful checks before and during purchase can prevent costly surprises and speed up your title issuance.

• Verify the VIN on the car matches the title and bill of sale; inspect the VIN plate for tampering.
• Check title status and brands; use your state’s records and national databases (such as NMVTIS through an approved provider).
• Confirm the seller’s identity matches the name on the title; beware of open titles or skipped ownership.
• If a lien is listed, ensure a written lien release from the lender; don’t exchange full payment without it.
• Complete an odometer disclosure where required and keep copies of all documents.
• Follow your state’s notary rules; some transfers must be notarized to be valid.
• File within your state’s deadline to avoid late fees and penalties.

Taking these precautions helps ensure the state can promptly recognize you as the lawful owner and issue the correct title without complications.

Summary

In essence, a car gets a title when the state verifies ownership, records any lien, and accepts your paperwork and fees—dealers often handle this for new and many used purchases, while private buyers file themselves. Bring the right documents, clear any liens, complete the odometer disclosure, and meet inspection and tax requirements. With accurate paperwork, you can expect your paper or electronic title to be issued within days to weeks, establishing you as the legal owner.

How do I get a Nebraska title for my car?

Titles may be issued in any county, for a list of offices refer to the Motor Vehicle Offices. To obtain a Certificate of Title you must submit a completed Application for Certificate of Title signed by all parties whose names are to appear on the title.

How do I get my title from the state of Kansas?

You will need to complete the Application for Secured/Duplicate/Reissue Title, form TR-720B that includes the following information: vehicle year, make and identification number, owner’s name(s) and the current odometer reading. Include appropriate title fee. The title fee in Kansas is $10.

What’s the process of getting a title for a car?

To obtain a copy of your car title, take your vehicle’s VIN, any financing documentation, current odometer reading, driver’s license, and payment for the reissuing fee to your local DMV and apply for a replacement title.

How long does it take to get a title in Indiana?

In Indiana, a car title typically arrives in the mail within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the type of transfer. You can track the status of your title using a myBMV account online at www.in.gov/bmv/. 
Factors influencing the timeline

• Dealer transfers may take longer, potentially two to three weeks or more, because dealerships need to process the paperwork and may not visit the BMV office daily. 
• Private transfers often have a faster turnaround, sometimes under two weeks. 
• For replacement titles, the application can be processed in person, with the state mailing the new title in about two to six weeks. 
• Expedited services are sometimes available for an additional fee, with one user reporting receiving their title in under a week after paying for expedited service. 

What to do while you wait 

• You can generally drive the vehicle while waiting for the title, provided you have proof of insurance and the bill of sale.
• However, it is important to ensure you have temporary registration or license plates as required by Indiana law.

How to check your title status 

• Visit the myBMV website at www.in.gov/bmv/.
• Log in to your account and select “Vehicle Titles” to track the status of your title in the left-hand menu.