Basics

What Is a Bonded Title?

What Is a Bonded Title?

May 23, 2025

What Is a Bonded Title?

If you've purchased a vehicle but lack the proper title to prove ownership, you might need a bonded title. It is a legal document that allows you to claim ownership of a vehicle when the original title is missing, lost, or never transferred to your name.

When Do You Need a Bonded Title?

1. Lost or Stolen Title: If the original vehicle title has been lost or stolen and can't be recovered, a bonded title may be the only option to prove ownership.

2. Vehicle Sold Without a Title If you purchased a car but the seller never provided a title, or the title was incomplete, a bonded title helps legitimize your claim.

3. Incomplete Ownership History If the DMV finds gaps or inconsistencies in the vehicle's ownership record, a bonded title might be required.

How To Get A Bonded Title?

To get a bonded title, you’ll need to:

  • Apply through your local DMV

  • Provide proof of ownership (like a bill of sale)

  • Get a surety bond (usually for 1.5x the vehicle's value)

The bond protects the state and any rightful owner if someone later claims the vehicle.

How Long Does a Bonded Title Last?

Bonded titles typically last 3 to 5 years, depending on your state. If no one contests ownership during that time, it can often be converted into a regular title.

Can a Bonded Title Be Transferred or Sold?

Yes, but any future buyer must be informed that it is a bonded title. This can sometimes affect the vehicle's resale value. However, once the bonding period expires and ownership isn’t challenged, the title can be updated to a regular title.

How Plox Helps You Manage Bonded Title Documents

Plox makes it simple to securely store, organize, and share bonded title paperwork with:

  • Secure Document Sharing: Protect sensitive ownership documents with password-protected sharing links.

  • View Analytics: See when and who viewed your bonded title file.

  • Version Control: Upload updated versions of documents without losing access to previous ones.

Whether you need to send documents to your local DMV, a buyer, or your insurance provider. Plox ensures they're secure and traceable.

Final Thoughts

A bonded title is a useful solution when a vehicle’s ownership chain is unclear. It protects both the current possessor and the state from legal claims. With the help of secure platforms like Plox, managing and sharing title documents is easier and more reliable than ever.

Store and Share Your Bonded Title with Plox
Need to send or track access to your title documents? Use Plox to securely share your bonded title with confidence.

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Private. Secure. Yours.

Designed, built, and backed by Respawn Technologies Private Ltd


Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved. 

Private. Secure. Yours.

Designed, built, and backed by Respawn Technologies Private Ltd


Copyright © 2025. All rights reserved.