Few people care much about the title number for their vehicle as it’s not important to the average vehicle owner. However, when you do have to use it, you will need to know how to find the title number of a car.
In this guide, I talk about the places you can locate the title number and provide some context as to why you would care about the title number. I also explore the different types of car titles.
What is a car title number?
The car title number, which is 7 or 8 digits, belongs to your car’s ownership records on the certificate of title or registration. The title number was assigned when the evaluated car was sold to a new owner and will change with different changes of ownership.
The title number will not tell anything about vehicle specific information like the owner of the car, make and model. However, it can be beneficial to have to get a new title or find a lost title.
How to Find the Title Number of a Car?
The title number appears on several documents. It’s found on the title or vehicle registration. If you don’t have these documents, local DMV or the insurance company may also provide that information. The financer may also have the relevant number.
#1. On the Title.
The title number can easily be found on the vehicle title. Every title has a number, so you don’t have to search for it. Most of the time, it’s found above the VIN, but depending on the state, it may be in a different location. The title number is usually eight digits long.
#2. On the Vehicle Registration/Renewal.
Some states also use the title number on the vehicle registration. This is usually found with the vehicle, so you should have access to the title number.
You should find the title number near the make and model of the vehicle in the vehicle registration document. You may also find this information on the renewal document.
#3. Local DMV.
If there is not a document with the title number, you can always go to your local DMV. The local DMV has the title number in their file.
Again, you will need to provide proof of who you are. Some states allow this request in person and others require you to call. While you’re at the DMV you should order a copy of your title number for your records.
#4. Insurance Company.
Although a title number is not commonly needed, some insurance companies may ask for this number. Typically, the insurance company only needs the VIN, but it is always good to know ahead of time.
All it would take is a simple phone call to see if the company requires the title number. Speaking of insurance, you should also check your policy to determine if you are getting the coverage you want.
#5. Financing Company.
If you don’t hold the title, it is because the vehicle is not fully paid for. Some financing companies keep the title or a copy of the title while you are paying the loan. You can always call to get the title number.
You may also request more information during your call, such as how much longer you need to pay before you get the title to your vehicle. Typically, once the loan is paid off, the company will mail the title to you.
Car Title Types
#1. Clean.
Before you buy a car, make sure it has a clean title. This means the insurance company never decided the vehicle was a total loss.
In essence, you know the car was never totaled by the provider. The only way to truly make sure you are buying a car that is in good condition is to buy one with a clean title.
#2. Clear.
On top of a clean title, you want a clear title. All this tells you is that there is no financing for the vehicle.
If a financing company owns the vehicle, the title is not clear. Once you have paid the lien off, it will change to a clear title. Basically, you want a clear, clean title when you are buying a used vehicle.
#3. Lemon/Factory Buy Back.
If a car has problems from the factory, this is a lemon. There are laws around vehicle lemons to refund the customer their money back, but those laws vary in each state. You will want to check local laws to see what resourcing you may need to figure out what is involved.
Once a vehicle is declared a lemon, a manufacturer will buy it back, and the title will state it was bought back. In essence, the next customer will see that the vehicle was bought back and know this is a vehicle they may want to stay away from.
#4. Salvage.
A salvage title means the insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. A total loss can occur via accident, a flood, or another incident, where the cost to repair the vehicle would be more than the value of the vehicle.
Generally speaking, you should avoid salvage titles unless you are going to rebuild that vehicle, which can be a lengthy process. It will be sold at a much lower cost than a clean title.
#5. Rebuilt.
A rebuilt title means that a salvage vehicle has been completely repaired and has passed inspections. After it was declared a total loss vehicle, it was built or repaired back to industry standards.
These vehicles go through a rigorous inspection process, showing they are sound for back on the road again. However, you shouldn’t pay full price for these vehicles, as anything may go wrong going down the road.
What is a Title Number Needed for?
There are very few reasons for the title number. It is not nearly as important as your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is a serial number for every car. The title number is simply a reference for the title itself.
The title number is only meaningful when the title changes ownership. When the title changes ownership, it will change the title number. Other than that, the title number doesn’t serve any purpose other than when the financing company gives the vehicle to you or when you sell the car.
What to do if you lose the title?
If you are not in possession of the vehicle title, it is best to just get a duplicate from your state’s DMV. You can search for this request online where you can download the request and send it in. You can also fill out the information online.
You can also visit some DMV offices in-person to fill out the request. Either way, you will have to pay some money for your duplicate title. The amount charged will be different depending on the state, but this remains true regardless. You have to prove that you are the owner of that vehicle before you are given a duplicate title.
Be sure to have identification when you request your copy. Also, be sure to follow up with the title division in your state’s DMV. You will have to wait a few weeks before you receive the new title in the mail. This waiting period allows the state to verify the information to reduce fraud.
Can a Vehicle Be Sold Without a Title?
You can sell your vehicle without a title, but you don’t want to. You will need to write up a bill of sale and sign an affidavit assuring that all of the information is accurate.
The new buyer must then apply for a bonded title, which can cost more money. It’s also a hassle in some states to accomplish, so you may have to knock the asking price down to compensate the buyer. Instead of going through that hassle, it’s best to get your duplicate title before you plan to put the car up for sale.
Can I get a copy of my car title online?
Yes. You can get a copy of your car title online and you will need the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for your vehicle. The easiest way to obtain a copy of your car title is to go to the website of your state’s department.of motor vehicles (DMV).