How to Get a Bonded Title in Nebraska
This Nebraska bonded title guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage bonded title issuance. Contact the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles for the latest official requirements.
How to Get a Nebraska Bonded Title
A Nebraska bonded title is a legal document used to establish ownership of a vehicle when the original title is lost, unavailable or can not be transferred. It allows individuals who purchase a vehicle without a proper Nebraska title to obtain legal ownership while protecting the state and future vehicle owners.
Continue reading for step-by-step instructions, application costs and bonding information.
Who Needs a Nebraska Bonded Title?
Nebraska Revised Statutes 60-167 requires individuals to file a surety bond if they lack sufficient proof of vehicle ownership. You may need a bonded title under the following circumstances:
- No title has previously been issued for the vehicle in Nebraska or any other state.
- You cannot provide a properly assigned Certificate of Title or Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO).
- The vehicle has an active bonded title in another state.
- You acquired the vehicle without receiving a title at the time of purchase.
- The title was assigned incorrectly.
Obtaining a bonded title allows your vehicle to be legally registered and provides protection against potential claims from the original owner. Bonded titles are not available for ATVs, UTVs, or minibikes unless the Department of Motor Vehicles records show that a Nebraska title was previously issued.
How to Get a Bonded Title in Nebraska
Follow the five steps below to receive your Nebraska bonded title(s).
Step 1: Conduct a title search
Submit an Application for Copy of Vehicle Record form to the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to check if a current title exists for your vehicle. For vehicles purchased out of state or online, make sure the DMV in that state performs the title search.
Step 2: Address existing titles or liens
If the record search returns an existing title, send a certified letter to the owner on record. The letter must state that you are the current owner of the vehicle and ask for the previous owner to obtain a duplicate title and complete the transfer of ownership. Keep copies of all communications for your records.
Additionally, if your vehicle has an existing lien, send a certified letter to the lienholder to request a release.
Step 3: Acquire a surety bond
File a non-cancelable three-year bond worth 1.5 times the appraised value of the vehicle. You can buy your Nebraska certificate of title bond online 24/7 at SuretyBonds.com starting at just $100. Get an instant quote today.
Step 4: Prepare your application
Fill out the Application for a Bonded Certificate of Title form and gather supporting documents including:
- Proof of ownership
- A vehicle photo
- A Sheriff’s Inspection Certificate (if needed)
- Certified letter copies
- Bonding agent documentation
- Odometer Disclosure Statement (for vehicles less than 20 years old)
- Lien release (if applicable)
Step 5: Submit your application
Send your completed application, supporting documents, surety bond, and $50 fee to the Nebraska DMV. It typically takes 1–4 weeks for the DMV to process and approve bonded title applications. Ensure all materials are included to avoid delays.
How Much Does a Nebraska Bonded Title Cost?
The cost of obtaining a Nebraska bonded title consists of a $50 application fee and a title bond premium that starts at $100. The final price of your certificate of title bond will depend on the required bond amount:
- Bonds under $6,000: $100
- Bonds from $6,001 to $50,000: $15 per $1,000 of coverage, starting at $100
- Bond over $50,000: Prices vary based on credit score, starting at $750
Get an instant quote for your Nebraska certificate of title bond now.
Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?
After three years, the owner can either submit an Application for Release of Notice on Bonded Title to the DMV or apply for a new Certificate of Title at the County Treasurer's Office. This request must include the required title fee to have the bonded title notice removed.
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Last Updated: November 5, 2024
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