If you own titled property, such as a vehicle, boat or mobile home, you must have a certificate of title to prove ownership. It is vital to have an Arizona certificate of title because without this documentation you can’t legally register or sell your vehicle.

How to get an Arizona Certificate of Title

• From a Dealer: Typically, the dealer will collect any fees involved in the titling process and then submit all of the paperwork for you. Similarly, licensed dealers usually handle the transfer of an existing title to you when you buy a used car from a dealership.

• From a private seller: you’ll have to apply for a title yourself. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, you have 15 days from the date of purchase to apply for a new title or title transfer with their Motor Vehicle Division. You’ll need the following items to transfer title and registration to a new owner:
  • A completed, signed Title and Registration Application
  • A signed and notarized vehicle title
  • If applicable, a lien release, or written permission from the lienholder to add or remove a name to the title
  • All applicable title and registration fees ($4 title fee, $8 registration fee)
  • Any other documents that apply (e.g., original or certified copy of power of attorney, personal representative papers, etc.)

What to do if Your Arizona Title is Lost or Destroyed

Sometimes, an Arizona certificate of title gets lost or destroyed or becomes unreadable. When this happens, you can apply for a duplicate title by submitting a Title and Registration Application to your local DMV. You’ll also need to pay a $4 replacement fee and be required to show a photo ID. 

It sounds easy, but it’s not always that simple. In some cases, you’ll also be required to show proof of ownership. This is most common in cases in which the title has been lost or stolen or contains incorrect information. If you aren’t elligible for a duplicate certificate of title, you might need to get an Arizona Bonded Title.

Not sure if you need a Bonded Title AZ? Check out this awesome infographic.

How to get an Arizona Bonded Title

An Arizona Bonded Title is just like a regular title. It proves you own your vehicle and allows you to sell, insure, and register your car. If you can’t prove you own your vehicle or if you do not have all the paperwork you need to get a duplicate title, you can get an Arizona Bonded Title. 

***Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get an Arizona Bonded Title.***

More About the Arizona Lost Title Bond

To get an Arizona Bonded Title, you will need to purchase an Arizona Lost Title Bond.

The state of Arizona has set the AZ Lost Title Bond amount at 1.5 times the current value of the vehicle. For example, if your vehicle is worth $2,000 then you will need to get a $3,000 Arizona Lost Title Bond.

You will not need to pay the full bond amount. Instead, you will just pay a small portion. If your AZ Lost Title Bond amount is less than $6,600 then you will only need to pay $100 for your bond.