A car can have two titles primarily due to administrative reasons like a duplicate title being issued after the original is lost, or more concerningly, because of title jumping where a vehicle is flipped without properly transferring ownership. The most common scenario is a simple duplicate. If you lose your car's title, your local DMV can issue a replacement, making the original void. However, possessing two active titles is a red flag.
Title jumping, often called a "curbstoning" scam, occurs when a person buys a car and then sells it quickly without putting the title in their name. This leaves the new buyer with a title signed by the previous owner, not the seller. The seller might also have a title in their name from a different transaction, but the car should only have one valid, current title.
Another situation involves branded titles. A car might have a "clean" title and later receive a "salvage" brand after a major accident. The physical document might be re-issued with the new branding, but it's still one title.
To verify a title's status, you can use a VIN lookup service or check with your state's DMV. The table below outlines key reasons for multiple titles.
| Reason for Multiple Titles | Is it Legal? | Potential Risk to Buyer |
|---|
| Lost Original & Issued Duplicate | Yes, the duplicate voids the original | Low, if the duplicate is in the seller's name |
| Title Jumping / Curbstoning | No, it is illegal | High; you may not be able to register the car |
| Title from Different States | Potentially fraudulent | High; the car may have hidden damage or liens |
| Co-ownership (e.g., spouses) | Yes, but still one title document | Low, as long as both parties sign for sale |
| Administrative Error | Yes, but rare | Medium; requires correction with the DMV |
Always ensure the title is in the seller's name and matches their ID. If you're handed two documents, proceed with extreme caution and verify the vehicle's history thoroughly before purchasing.
