Missouri Bonded Title

If you never received a certificate of title when you purchased or inherited your car, you may need a bonded title. You could also need one if your title was lost or stolen before you had a chance to get it registered in your name.

To be eligible for a Missouri bonded title, your vehicle must be at least seven years old and be worth $3,000 or less (see page 10 of the Miscellaneous Titling Information document). No record of a prior application for a vehicle title may exist.

Remember that your vehicle must be at least seven years old and worth no more than $3,000 for you to qualify for a bonded title. Additionally, no prior record of application for title may exist. Contact a local DMV to confirm these details. If you meet each of the Missouri bonded title requirements, proceed with this process.

1. Fill out an application.

Complete an Application for Missouri Title and License with the Department of Revenue.

2. Collect and complete all required documentation.

Include the following documents with your application:

• A statement that explains how you acquired your vehicle and why you can’t prove ownership without a bonded title
• All evidence of ownership that you possess
• Title verification from a previous state (if known)
• Notarized lien release (if any lienholders exist)
• Vehicle Examination Certificate (from the Missouri State Highway Patrol or St. Louis City or County Auto Theft Unit (cost is $25))
• Odometer Disclosure Statement (unless your vehicle is exempt)

3. Get a title bond.

You can get a Missouri title bond from a qualified surety bond provider like ZipBonds. Your bond must be equal to twice the value of your vehicle. Use the NADA Used Car Guide or Kelley Blue Book, or get two appraisals from a licensed motor vehicle dealer in Missouri to determine your car’s value.

Title bonds cost $100 and can be issued and printed instantly. The bond will be active for three years and then expire (if no one files a claim against it).

• Return Title Slip: Exhibit C

4. Submit your complete application.

Compile all the documentation listed in the previous steps, and then submit it to the nearest Missouri Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Bureau office. The application fees (duplicate title and processing fees) will amount to $11 in total.

Once your application is approved, you will receive a title that’s branded “bonded vehicle” from the Director of Revenue. The approval process takes approximately 30 days.