No, you should not sell a car to someone without the title, and in most cases, it is illegal to do so. The vehicle title is the primary legal document that proves ownership. Selling a car without it creates significant legal and financial risks for both the seller and the buyer. The buyer will be unable to register the vehicle with their state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or prove they own it legally, which can lead to fines, impoundment, and a complete loss of their investment. For the seller, it can result in continued liability for parking tickets, tolls, or even crimes associated with the vehicle.
The only scenario where a title might not be physically present at the sale is if it is held by a lienholder (a bank or credit union) because the car loan isn't fully paid off. In this case, the sale process is different. The seller must use the buyer's funds to pay off the loan, then the lienholder releases the title directly to the new owner. This must be coordinated precisely; simply handing over a car with an outstanding loan is a recipe for disaster.
If the title is lost, the solution is straightforward: the current owner must apply for a duplicate title from their local DMV before any sale can proceed. This process involves filling out a form, paying a small fee, and waiting for the new document to arrive, which typically takes a few weeks. Attempting to sell a car with only a bill of sale is insufficient and risky.
| State | Typical Duplicate Title Fee | Processing Time (Standard) | Special Notes |
|---|
| California | $23 | 2-3 weeks | Can be requested online if no lienholder. |
| Texas | $5.45 | 2-3 weeks | Faster "priority" service may be available. |
| Florida | $75.25 | 10-15 business days | Fee includes electronic lien fee. |
| New York | $20 | Up to 90 days | Processing times can vary significantly by county. |
| Illinois | $95 | 7-15 business days | One of the highest duplicate title fees in the U.S. |
| Arizona | $4 | 15-20 business days | A relatively low-cost option. |
| Colorado | $8.20 | 5-10 business days | Can be expedited for an additional fee. |
The safest rule is to never exchange money or the vehicle without the clear, signed title in hand. If a seller is pressuring you to buy without a title, it is a major red flag that the car may be stolen, have unresolved liens, or have other legal issues.
