How to Get a Bonded Title in Texas in 5 Steps

If you can’t prove that you own your vehicle, you may need a bonded title. Here are specific instances that may require you to apply for a bonded title in Texas:

• You never received a title when you bought or received your car.
• Your title was improperly assigned to you. or
• You lost your title before transferring it to your name.

1. Find out if you’re eligible for a bonded title.

To qualify for a Texas bonded title, you must be either a Texas resident or military personnel stationed in the state. You must also legally possess the vehicle. If it’s considered nonrepairable, junked, or ineligible for a title for another reason, you won’t qualify. Your vehicle must be complete – with a body, motor, and frame.

Contact the Texas DMV to ensure you’re eligible before applying.

2. Submit your bonded title application.

If you meet the requirements for a bonded title, proceed by compiling and submitting the following documents to your nearest TxDMV Regional Service Center.

• Supporting evidence of ownership (invoice, bill of sale, canceled check, etc.)
• Photo ID
• Bonded title application
• $15 processing fee (cash, check, or money order)

3. Wait until your application is approved.

If your application is approved, you will receive a Notice of Determination for a Bonded Title or Tax Assessor-Collector Hearing. This form will tell you what bond to purchase in the next step.

4. Purchase a Texas title bond.

Your bond must be equal to 1.5 times your vehicle’s value. You can get a three-year bond from a direct surety provider like ZipBonds for as little as $100. Keep in mind you will only have one year to purchase your bond before your application expires.

Purchase a Texas title bond.

5. Apply for your Texas bonded title.

Finally, you can complete the Application for Texas Title and/or Registration. Just make sure you do so within 30 days of purchasing your bond. Take your original Notice of Determination that you received from the Regional Service Center (along with all documents listed in Step 2) to your county tax office.

Once your application is received and approved, you’ll be issued a bonded title!

What if I have an out-of-state vehicle?

If you’re a state resident but your vehicle is from out of state, a Texas-certified Safety Inspection Station must verify your VIN before your application can be approved. If your vehicle has never had a title or registration in Texas, you may also need a VIN inspection from an auto theft investigator. Contact your local law enforcement agency for more information on where to get an inspection.

A Texas title bond must remain in effect for three years from the date of issuance. When the bond expires, the bond will be returned to the owner (unless someone has filed a claim against it). If someone files a claim and says you owe them money, your surety will investigate to determine if the claim is legitimate. If it is, you must reimburse the claimant for their loss.

Texas title bonds are quickly issued, typically cost around $100, and have a 3-year bond period. After the bond expires, there is no requirement for the bond. You will be eligible for a standard certificate of title.

Purchase a Texas title bond.