Colorado Motor Vehicle Title Bond

How do I obtain a bonded title?

We recommend contacting the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles to ensure you meet all requirements before purchasing a bond with Self Service Surety. It is your responsibility to understand and follow allow requirements prior to purchasing a bond. For convenience we have summarized the steps required according to documentation available at colorado.gov/revenue.

1. Have the motor vehicle inspected and a Certified VIN Inspection form, DR 2704, completed by a P.O.S.T. certified inspector.
2. Complete a Motor Vehicle Record Search Request, form DR 2489A and request a Colorado Title Record Search, form DR 2539. Attempt to contact by certified or registered mail (return receipt requested) the owner of record as indicated on the record search.
3. If an active lien is found on your vehicle, it must be released. Refer to the Colorado DMV to confirm lien release documentation requirements and steps needed if you are unable to get the lien released.
4. Determine the vehicle’s value. A price guide reference such as Kelly Blue Book may be used for vehicles newer than 7 years old. In addition, a licensed Colorado automotive dealer can provide a valuation on dealer letterhead, signed, dated and including the dealer’s license number.
5. Obtain a surety bond for twice the vehicle’s value, as determined above.
6. Complete the Bond Statement Guide & In Lieu of Bond Affidavit, form DR 2394.
7. Apply for Title or Salvage Title at the county motor vehicle office in the county in which you live.

There are many additional important details and exceptions in addition to the steps laid out above. When in doubt, contact the Colorado DMV and discuss your questions with a representative.Who needs a Colorado title bond?If you purchase or otherwise receive a motor vehicle with a lost or improperly assigned title, a title bond is required to establish your ownership of the car and to register your vehicle. It is best to call the Colorado DMV directly to clarify your requirements.

Why are title bonds required?

A title bond ensures that compensation is available to individuals who subsequently come forward as rightful owner of the vehicle. A rightful owner that comes forward prior to the bond’s expiration may be entitled to compensation up to the full penalty amount of the bond. After the bond’s expiration, the title is considered clean and no further claims can be made. Colorado bonded titles expire after 3 years, at which point you can apply for the “bonded” brand to be removed.

Who needs a Colorado title bond?

If you purchase or otherwise receive a motor vehicle with a lost or improperly assigned title, a title bond is required to establish your ownership of the car and to register your vehicle. It is best to call the Colorado DMV directly to clarify your requirements.