Montana Certificate of Title Bond

How do I obtain a bonded title?

We recommend contacting the Montana Motor Vehicle Division to ensure you meet all requirements before purchasing a bond with Self Service Surety. It is your responsibility to follow Montana Motor Vehicle Division directions prior to purchasing a bond. For convenience we have summarized some critical steps here:

1. Attempt to obtain proof of ownership and collect any supporting documents. Documents supporting proof of ownership include a notarized bill-of-sale, cancelled check, or purchase invoice.
2. Have local law enforcement complete a Vehicle Identification Number Inspection Certificate (form MV20).
3. Consult the National Appraisal Guide (NADA) for the car’s value as of January 1 of the current year. Vehicles with a value above $500 require a surety bond equal to the bond’s value.
4. Complete the Application for Bonded Title form (Form Mv10)
5. Return to selfservicesurety.com, click the “ORDER BOND” button, and complete your purchase online. The required bond amount will be equal to the vehicle’s value as determined by the NADA guide. We will mail you the bond.
6. If your vehicle needs license plates, submit your application to your county treasurer’s office along with all required fees. If your vehicle does not need license plates, submit to the vehicle services bureau or your county treasurer’s office. A title fee will still be required.

Obtaining a bonded title can be an involved and complicated process. When in doubt, contact the Montana MVD and discuss your questions with a representative.

Who needs a Montana Bond Certificate of Title?

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 MVD directly to ensure that your unique case requires and is eligible for a title bond.

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. Montana bonded titles expire after 3 years, at which point you can apply for the “bonded” brand to be removed.