A Pennsylvania car title is an 8.5 x 11-inch document printed on secure, multi-colored safety paper. It's officially called the "Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Certificate of Title" and serves as legal proof of vehicle ownership. The most prominent features are the vehicle identification number (VIN), the owner's name and address, and the title brand, which indicates the vehicle's history.
The title is divided into several key sections. The top portion contains the commonwealth seal and the title number. The central area lists the vehicle's details: year, make, model, body type, and the all-important odometer reading at the time of the last transaction. If there is a lien on the vehicle, the lienholder's information will be clearly stated. The bottom of the title is the assignment section, which must be correctly filled out and signed by the seller to legally transfer ownership to a buyer.
Pennsylvania titles also use security features to prevent fraud. These can include micro-printing, a ghost image of the state seal, and specific color patterns that are difficult to replicate. It's crucial to store the title in a safe place, as it is a critical document for selling your car or proving ownership.
| Title Section | Description | Key Data Points |
|---|
| Title Number | Unique identifier for the title document. | 8-10 digit alphanumeric code. |
| Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) | 17-character unique serial number. | Located in multiple sections for verification. |
| Owner Name & Address | Legal owner(s) of the vehicle. | Up to two names (e.g., "John Doe AND Jane Doe"). |
| Title Brand | Indicates a significant event in the vehicle's history. | "Clean," "Salvage," "Flood," "Rebuilt." |
| Lienholder Info | Legal entity with a financial interest in the vehicle. | Name and address of the bank or lender. |
| Odometer Reading | Mileage at last transaction. | Must be accurate; discrepancies can be a red flag. |
| Assignment Section | Area for seller and buyer to sign for transfer. | Includes date of sale and purchase price. |
