How To Title a Motorcycle Without a Title

The used motorcycle market isn’t just a good way to save money; in many cases, it’s the only way to find specific models. Discontinued bikes or those with special features may not be available through dealerships, making it necessary to purchase the vehicle from a fellow motorcyclist selling their ride.

When buying a used motorcycle from an individual, there is a chance the bike does not come with a valid title. Not having this document can be an issue for buyers, concealing issues such as outstanding liens, rebuild status, or a fraudulent sale. It can also make registering difficult, which is required in all 50 states to ride legally.

Find out the risks of purchasing a motorcycle without a title, what to watch for, and how to title and register it properly to enjoy the open road. 

What Is a Motorcycle Title and Why Is It Important?

When a motorcycle is manufactured, it comes with a document called a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO). Ideally, the first person to buy the bike takes it to their local DMV, presents the MCO, and receives a title to officially mark their ownership. 

When they sell the bike, they sign over the title to the new owner, who registers it with the state and receives an updated document. The title contains the following data about the motorcycle, which helps inform future buyers about its history and mileage:

• VIN (vehicle identification number)
• Make, model, and year of manufacture
• Issue date
• Owner’s name and address
• Current odometer reading (mileage)
• Signature of the seller and buyer

Understanding the Potential Risks of a Motorcycle Without a Title

Motorcycles without valid titles are relatively common in the used motorcycle market. Sellers may not have the motorcycle title for many reasons. For instance, it could have been lost, misplaced, or destroyed. 

Vintage bikes, off-road models not meant for street use, or custom-built motorcycles may not have come with MCOs or VINs. For instance, before 1981, the U.S. government didn’t require vehicle VIN information. Bikes older than this date may not have identifying information or titles. 

The lack of a title can conceal legal, financial, or mechanical problems. The risk is higher if the motorcycle also doesn’t come with other documentation, such as registration or maintenance records. These risks may include: 

• Potentially stolen. A missing title can hide that the motorcycle’s current owner isn’t legitimate. Purchasing a stolen motorcycle, even unknowingly, typically makes it impossible to register it. It can also create potential legal liabilities, such as fees, confiscation, or criminal charges.

• Outstanding liens. A lack of a title can conceal any outstanding loans or liens against it, meaning the seller isn’t the full owner yet. Purchasing a motorcycle with liens on it transfers them and any potential debts onto the new owner.

• Salvage or rebuilt. A motorcycle’s title can reveal whether it was totaled and salvaged or rebuilt. The lack of a title can conceal this information, making it harder to register or resell the motorcycle later.

How To Verify a Titleless Motorcycle’s Origin

Before purchasing any used vehicle, verify its origin by checking its VIN. This 17-character code, typically located on the frame near the steering head or on the engine casing, provides information like the model, year of production, and where it was made. 

When meeting or contacting the seller, ask for the bike’s VIN. Legitimate sellers should be willing to provide it. If the seller is hesitant or refuses to give the VIN, that could be a red flag that conceals legitimate issues.

After obtaining the VIN, run a check on multiple resources to learn as much as possible about the motorcycle:

• Get a vehicle report. Running a VIN check on an online vehicle history report tool can provide information on the motorcycle’s past. Advanced tools can offer detailed accident and repair histories, odometer checks, factory recall checks, and the number of previous owners.

• Use the NICB tool. The National Insurance Crime Bureau maintains its own VIN checking tool to help vehicle buyers determine whether a vehicle has been reported lost, stolen, or classified as salvage.

• Contact the state DMV. Each state’s DMV or equivalent agency maintains its own vehicle records. Contact or visit a local DMV office and ask whether they provide VIN lookup tools or services. State records for registered vehicles are typically more detailed and comprehensive, including up-to-date registration details or state-specific vehicle classifications.

How To Title a Motorcycle Without a Title

After confirming the motorcycle’s origin, getting it titled is necessary to prove the transfer of ownership. A fresh title allows the new owner to register, insure, and legally sell or transfer the bike.

If the seller is the bike’s registered owner, they should be able to contact the DMV and request a replacement title, which they can then provide to the buyer. If a replacement title isn’t available or if the motorcycle was never titled, take the following steps to title the vehicle:

• Obtain a bill of sale. Most states require the seller to sign and provide the buyer with a bill of sale. This document details the terms of the sale and proves the vehicle was sold. While it is not a legal requirement, having the bill of sale notarized can help confirm the transfer’s legitimacy and authenticity.

• Schedule a VIN inspection. Many states require the local highway patrol or DMV to perform a VIN inspection (also called VIN verification) after specific sales or transfers. For example, Texas requires inspections on out-of-state titleless vehicles. These inspections verify the vehicle’s identity, detect potential discrepancies, and ensure its legality in the buyer’s state.

• Visit the local DMV office. After obtaining the bill of sale and completing an inspection, visit the local DMV office and ask about the process to follow for titling. They will outline the state-specific documentation to provide to complete the process and obtain a title appropriate for a titleless motorcycle. Many states, such as Indiana, allow buyers to petition a local court and get a valid vehicle title.

Ride Safely and Legally

When encountering a titleless vehicle on the used motorcycle market, the right tools and practices, such as VIN checks, are among the best tools at a buyer’s disposal. Not only do they help buyers verify they are purchasing a legitimate pre-owned vehicle, but they also facilitate the titling process.

Corentin’s passion for the automotive world started when he was just seven years old, during a life-changing visit to an auto museum. Now a seasoned writer, Corentin channels that early fascination into every piece he writes, whether he’s exploring the latest car trends or automotive history. But his expertise doesn't end there—he also brings his insights to topics like home improvement, the boating and yachting industry, personal finance tips, and cutting-edge tech.