Who Needs a Georgia Bonded Title?
If you do not have the required proof of ownership documents for your vehicle listed here by the Georgia Department of Revenue, then you can apply for a Georgia title based on a surety bond. Believe it or not, there are some cases in which your vehicle does not require a title. Though it’s unlikely you fall into one of those categories.
Please note that the requirements for different vehicles may vary. If you need a Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Bond for a mobile home, read this. Otherwise, we’ll answer all your questions regarding this process right here.
The most popular types of vehicles that need a Georgia Bonded Title are cars, motorcycles, and trucks. We also provide title bonds for trailers and campers.. No matter the vehicle you need a title bond for, we’re here to help.
Who Is Eligible for a Georgia Bonded Title?
The GA Dept of Revenue states that you are eligible for a Georgia Bonded Title if:
- The owner is a legal GA resident
- The vehicle requires a Georgia Title
- The vehicle model is not older than 1985
- The vehicle is not abandoned
I’d like to think this could go unsaid, but the vehicle must be located in the state of Georgia and within your possession. If you believe you are eligible for a Georgia Bonded Title, view our interactive model to find out if you have everything you need to apply or continue reading.
Links to Resources in Flow Chart Above:
- Form T-4
- GA Salvage Vehicle Instructions
- GA Abandoned Vehicle Instructions
- Georgia Title Bond — Application Form
Links to Resources in Flow Chart Above:
- T-22B Form
- Form T-4
- Mobile Home Title Bond — Application Form
What If Your Vehicle Is Abandoned?
If you hope to get a title for an abandoned vehicle, you must follow the state’s process. Abandoned vehicles do not qualify for titles based on a surety bond. Don’t worry though, we’re not going to leave you without any guidance.
Per the abandoned motor vehicle law, an abandoned vehicle must be sold at a public sale to qualify for a new title. Please visit the GA Department of Revenue website for abandoned vehicles and the abandonment process for further information.
How to Get Your Title Surety Bond
A vital step to getting your GA bonded title is to get the surety bond. But, before you apply for a Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Bond, you’ll need:
- A national Vehicle history report from any company that provides an NMVTIS.
- The value of your vehicle. Enter the Vehicle Identification Number into the TAVT Tax Estimator to determine vehicle value.
Some vehicles will not have a history report. Additionally, if you cannot get a value for your vehicle off of the Georgia TAVT site, you will need to research the fair market value for your vehicle. Read this for further information. We recommend you finish this article before applying to ensure you only buy a bond if you need one.
What Do I Mean by “If” You Need a Bond?
As I’ve mentioned before, there are loads of circumstances when you’ve purchased a vehicle and need a new title. So, use your NMVTIS report to ensure your vehicle:
- Is not salvaged
- Does not have any liens against it
- Was last titled in Georgia
If you have a salvaged vehicle… you will need a title bond only if the state requests a bond. The state will request a bond if the new owner lacks receipts for the parts used to repair the vehicle or if the salvaged title is signed improperly. Review the state’s requirements for acquiring a rebuilt title at the GA Department of Revenue’s website.
If your vehicle has a lien against it… you may need a lien release from the lienholder before proceeding with the bond process.
If your vehicle was last titled in another state other than Georgia… you will need a certified vehicle history report from that state. Go to that state’s DMV website to request a Full Certified Vehicle History Report.
A Compact List of Required Documents for the Georgia Bonded Title
The following is a list of everything you may need before applying for your new GA Bonded Title:
- Completed and signed Form MV-1 Title/Tag Application.
- Supporting evidence of ownership such as a Bill of Sale, invoice, canceled check, or old title.
- A national vehicle history report (NMVTIS).
- A T-22B form filled out by a law enforcement officer. This form will confirm that the vehicle is not stolen.
- If the vehicle was last titled in a state other than Georgia, you will need a certified vehicle history report from that state.
- If the vehicle has a lien, you may need a lien release from the lienholder before proceeding with the bond process.
- Your Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title Bond, which will include the required signed Form MV-46A Certificate of Title Bond Affidavit.
The Georgia Department of Revenue lists these requirements in more detail here.
Now, Go Get Your New Title
Getting a bonded title for your car may seem like a daunting process. We hope this guide helps. Once you have all your documents, start a title application under the “Vehicle Title and Registration” section. This will save you time when you have to visit your local tag office.
Please make sure to charge your phone before you visit the tag office. Due to COVID-19, most tag offices will make you wait in your car until they are ready to meet with you. Also, don’t forget to bring a mask and wash your hands!
If you still have questions about the process, contact the GA Department of Revenue. Have more questions about surety bonds in general? Visit our FAQ page or give us a call at 1-866-546-4605. As always, we are here to serve you. Stay safe!