Which Documents Prove Ownership of a Vehicle?

It is important to be able to prove that you own a vehicle, especially if you wish to sell it down the line. In fact, it is a state requirement. If you have a vehicle you are preparing to sell, whether operational or a junked, you will need to locate the proper documents that prove your ownership.

Continue reading to learn which documents are universally accepted as proof of ownership, and which documents might be applicable depending on the buyer.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Previously Owned Vehicles

For those who wish to sell a previously-owned vehicle to a private buyer, a certain type of document that proves ownership must be provided in order for the sale to be legal and valid. The document that applies here is a car title. A simple transfer of title is all that must take place when selling a vehicle to another person, legally. If you are selling your car, you would sign the title over to the buyer, who then becomes the new owner. After the new owner signs the title, they must visit their DMV to officially register the car.

Brand New Vehicles

If you are selling a vehicle that never had a previous owner before you, you might be able to use the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, also known as a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), to prove ownership of the vehicle when you do not have a car title. This document is given to new car buyers at the dealership. They are official documents that can be used at a DMV to prove ownership of a car.

Additional Documents That Might Be Accepted

Depending on various factors, such as state laws and insurance regulations, there might be additional documents that can be used to prove ownership of a motorized vehicle. These may or may not include 1) letter of release from lien-holder, 2) a bill of sale, or 3) the registration certificate.

Did You Lose Your Car Title?

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will allow car owners to replace a lost, faulty, or stolen car title if they can meet all the replacement requirements. This new title will have “DUPLICATE” printed on its face to show that is it not the original document, but it will work just the same. Once a duplicate title is issued, the original one is no longer valid. Download an Indiana State Certificate of Authority form to get started.

How to Sell a Car Without a Title in Indiana

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, today! We have been buying junk cars throughout the Central Indiana area for several years. You will get the best price for your car because you are selling directly to the scrap yard! There is never a middle man, which means you walk away with more cash in your pocket. We buy all types of vehicles in all types of shape, running or not, and offer free towing and pick-up.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188