Can You Register a Car With a Bill of Sale and No Title?

In most states, you cannot register a car with only a bill of sale. The certificate of title signed by the seller is the primary document required for registration.

A bill of sale supplements the title by documenting the purchase price and transaction details.

Some states have bonded title or magistrate title processes for situations where the title is lost or unavailable. These require additional steps, fees, and waiting periods.

Vintage or title-exempt vehicles in some states may have different rules. Check your state's specific requirements.

Never hand over payment without receiving a valid signed title from the seller, except when using a verified alternative process approved by your DMV.

If a seller claims they lost the title, ask them to apply for a duplicate before completing the sale.