Who needs Bonded Title Bonds?

You may need a bonded title if you are trying to register a vehicle but do not have a valid title. This usually happens when the original title was lost, stolen, never properly transferred, or contains errors that cannot be corrected.

A bonded title (also called a certificate of title bond, lost title bond, or defective title bond) allows you to move forward with registration when ownership records are incomplete. It is commonly required by the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

This bond is typically required when:

  • The vehicle title is missing or unavailable
  • The title was not properly signed over to you
  • There is a mistake or defect on the title
  • You purchased a vehicle and never received a title

Many states require title bonds in these situations, including California, Florida, Georgia, New York, and Texas. Your state DMV will confirm whether a bonded title is required in your case.

How much do Bonded Title Bonds cost?

The cost of a title bond depends on the required bond amount and your premium rate.

The bond amount is usually set by the state and is typically based on the value of the vehicle. You do not pay the full bond amount. Instead, you pay a small percentage of it as your premium.

Most title bonds cost between 1% and 3% of the total bond amount. For lower-value vehicles, there is often a flat minimum premium. For higher bond amounts, a credit check may be required to determine your rate.

  • Your final cost depends on:
  • The value of the vehicle
  • The bond amount required by your state
  • Your credit history (for larger bond amounts)

How do I get a Bonded Title Bond?

Getting a title bond is a straightforward process.

First, confirm with your state DMV that a bonded title is required and verify the bond amount they need. In most cases, the bond amount is based on the vehicle’s current value.

Next, complete a short application with basic information about the vehicle and your contact details. For smaller bond amounts, approval is often quick and does not require extensive documentation. For larger bond amounts, a credit review may be part of the process.

Once issued, you will receive the bond to file with your DMV as part of your bonded title application.

Can I get a Bonded Title Bond with bad credit?

Yes. Having poor credit does not automatically prevent you from getting a title bond.

For lower bond amounts, credit checks are often not required. For higher bond amounts that do require a credit review, applicants with lower credit scores can still qualify. Your premium may be higher, but coverage is generally still available.

How fast can I get Bonded Title Bonds?

Many title bonds can be issued quickly once your application is submitted and the required bond amount is confirmed.

For smaller bond amounts, same-day processing is common. If a credit review is required for a larger bond, it may take a little longer. Once issued, you can file the bond with your DMV to continue the title process.

Are there any local requirements?

Bonded title requirements vary by state. Your state DMV will determine:

  • Whether a bonded title is required
  • The bond amount based on your vehicle’s value
  • How long the bond must remain in place

Because each state handles bonded titles differently, it is important to confirm the exact requirements with your DMV before applying.

If you’re unsure which bond you need, BOSS Bonds can review your licensing paperwork and help identify the correct bond at no cost.