How to Get a Missouri Bonded Title

Title XIX Section 301.192 of the Missouri Revised Statutes requires individuals to file a certificate of title bond when they cannot provide proof of vehicle ownership. A Missouri bonded title is a legal document that establishes ownership of a vehicle when the original title is lost, unavailable or cannot be transferred. 

It enables individuals who purchase a vehicle without a proper title to obtain legal ownership while protecting the state and future owners from financial damages. Continue reading for step-by-step instructions, application costs and bonding information. 

Who Needs a Missouri Bonded Title?

Typically, you will need a Missouri bonded title under these conditions:

• You did not receive a title when you bought the vehicle.
• The title you received was incorrectly assigned to you.
• You received a title but lost it before transferring it into your name.

To be eligible for a bonded title, you must be a permanent resident of Missouri, the vehicle must be located in the state, and the vehicle must have no title application record. 

According to state statutes, vehicles must also be at least seven years old and valued at no more than $3,000 to receive a bonded title. However, title bonds may still be required for vehicles valued over $3,000. Check with your local DMV office to determine if you need a bonded title.

How to Get a Bonded Title in Missouri

Follow the four steps below to apply for your Missouri bonded title.  

Step 1: Get a vehicle inspection

First, get an inspection and Vehicle Examination Certificate from the Missouri State Highway Patrol or a local Auto Theft Unit. The cost for this certificate is $25.

Step 2: Collect documentation

Complete the Application for Missouri Title and License form and gather the following supporting documents for submission: 

• A written statement of how you obtained the vehicle and why you cannot provide proof of ownership.
• An odometer certification statement (if vehicle is less than 10 years old)
• Any documents that show ownership, such as a bill of sale or receipt.
• Title verification from another state, if available.
• A notarized lien release, if applicable.

Step 3: Determine the vehicle’s value 

Calculate your vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book or by averaging two appraisals from licensed Missouri motor vehicle dealers. If you have any questions about the required bond amount, contact your local DMV office before purchasing your bond.

Step 3: Purchase a surety bond

Purchase and file a non-cancelable three-year title bond worth two times the appraised value of the vehicle. You can buy your Missouri certificate of title bond online 24/7 at SuretyBonds.com starting as low as $100.

Step 4: Submit application

Submit the surety bond form and all application documents to your local Missouri Department of Revenue Motor Vehicle Bureau office. The total cost for application and processing fees is approximately $11. After about 30 days, the Director of Revenue will issue your bonded title. 

How Much Does a Missouri Bonded Title Cost?

With SuretyBonds.com, you can get your Missouri certificate of title bond for as low as $100. Exact pricing depends on your vehicle value as the bond must be twice the appraised value. See below for cost details: 

• $100–$10,000 Title Bond: $100
• $10,001–$50,000 Title Bond: $10/$1,000 of coverage
• $50,001+ Title Bond: Pricing varies per applicant after underwriting review 

Get an instant quote for your Missouri certificate of title bond now. 

Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?

No, your Missouri bonded title and title bond will expire three years from the effective dates and won’t require renewal. If there are no bond claims or liens on the vehicle, you’ll receive a standard title after three years. 

More Resources

• Missouri Department of Revenue: Titling and Registration
• Application for Missouri Title and License (Form 108)
• Missouri Department of Revenue: Forms and Manuals
• Missouri Department of Revenue: Forms and Manuals