Title

A vehicle title, also called a certificate of ownership, is a legal document issued by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent authority that establishes who owns the vehicle. The title contains important information, including the owner’s name, vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, year, and any lienholders if the vehicle is financed.

A clear title means the car has no outstanding loans or claims against it, while a branded or salvage title indicates the vehicle has been significantly damaged or declared a total loss. Titles are required for selling, registering, or transferring ownership of a car.

When financing a vehicle, the lender is typically listed as a lienholder until the loan is paid off, at which point the title is released to the owner. Buyers must verify that the seller has a valid, transferable title before completing a transaction, as failing to do so can result in legal or financial complications.

Understanding title status is crucial for ensuring ownership rights and assessing vehicle history.