
Selling a car without a title in Maine is generally not legal and is a significant risk for both the seller and buyer. The certificate of title is the primary legal document that proves ownership. However, Maine law does provide a specific, regulated process for situations where the title is lost or unavailable, primarily through obtaining a duplicate title or, in very limited cases, using a bonded title process. The easiest and most straightforward path is always to get a replacement title from the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) before listing the car for sale.
If the original title is lost, you can apply for a duplicate by submitting Form MV-4 (Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title) to any Maine BMV branch. You'll need to provide the vehicle identification number (VIN), your driver's license, and pay a small fee. This process legally resolves the issue. Selling a car with only a bill of sale is extremely risky. The new owner will be unable to register the vehicle, and you could remain legally liable for parking tickets, tolls, or even accidents involving the car you sold.
For older vehicles, Maine has a special rule. Cars that are model year 1995 or older are eligible for a transfer without a title. In this case, a bill of sale and the previous registration are sufficient for the new owner to register the vehicle. This exception simplifies the process for classic and antique cars.
| Method | Applicability | Key Requirement | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duplicate Title | Lost or damaged title for any vehicle. | Submit Form MV-4 to Maine BMV. | Low (Official process) |
| Bill of Sale Only | Vehicles model year 1995 or older. | Previous registration document is critical. | Medium (Must ensure all docs are correct) |
| Bonded Title | Extreme cases with no proof of ownership. | Requires purchasing a surety bond. | High (Complex and expensive) |
| No Title/No Docs | Any vehicle 1996 or newer. | Not a legal option. | Extreme (Potential legal/financial liability) |
The bottom line is to always prioritize obtaining the proper paperwork. The temporary inconvenience of getting a duplicate title pales in comparison to the potential legal and financial headaches of an improper sale. Contact the Maine BMV directly for the most current forms and fee information.


