Montana Title Transfers Explained: What Businesses Need to Know
If you’re planning to buy a vehicle in Montana—whether it’s a car, boat, trailer, or even a snowmobile—understanding the title process is essential. The vehicle title is a legal document that proves ownership, and there are several steps involved in transferring or acquiring one.
Whether you’re buying from an individual or a dealership or need to replace a lost title, here’s what you need to know.
Purchasing from a Private Seller or Dealership
When you buy a used vehicle from a private owner, the title must be signed over by the seller to you. If you’re purchasing from a dealership, they will handle the paperwork for you and send it to your County Treasurer’s office for processing.
Keep in mind, that this process can take several weeks, so it’s important to follow up. Be sure to contact your local County Treasurer’s office to confirm they have all the necessary documents before scheduling an appointment.
What is a Vehicle Title?
A title isn’t just for cars and trucks—it applies to a wide range of vehicles, including motorboats, trailers, semitrailers, personal watercraft, sailboats, and snowmobiles. A title establishes the legal ownership of a vehicle, and obtaining one is an essential part of buying or selling.
For more information on vehicle titles, click here.
New to Montana? Transferring a Title
If you’ve recently moved to Montana or purchased a vehicle from an out-of-state seller, you’ll need to transfer the title to Montana. To do so, request a Foreign Title Transfer (MV63) from your County Treasurer’s office. Once the form is completed and signed, mail it to the secured party holding your out-of-state title. After receiving the title and request, the County Treasurer will process your title transfer.
In some cases, the new Montana title can be sent directly to the out-of-state secured party if needed. This process ensures your vehicle is officially titled in Montana, no matter where it originated.
Replacement Titles
If you’ve lost your title, you can apply for a replacement. Simply complete the Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (MV7), then mail it along with a $10.30 fee to the Vehicle Services Bureau. This applies to all motor vehicles, boats, and trailers. If you don’t have the original title, this is the best way to secure a new one.
Bonded Titles: What If There’s No Record of the Title?
In cases where you purchase a vehicle and no title can be found, a bonded title may be an option. This is especially common for older vehicles (30 years or more) where a bond isn’t required. For others, you must provide:
- Proof of ownership (notarized bill of sale, canceled check, or purchase invoice)
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection by law enforcement
- Application for Break/Bond Title (MV10)
- Any documents related to liens or security interests
The vehicle’s value will be determined based on the National Appraisal Guide (NADA), and if it’s valued over $1,000, a bond equal to that value is required. For vehicles valued at $1,000 or less, no bond is needed.
Rectifying Mistakes on Vehicle Title
If you find an error on your vehicle title, you can request a correction. To do so, complete a Statement of Correction (MV11AB) and include supporting documents. Send the completed form to the Vehicle Services Bureau.
Titling and Registration
It’s important to note that in Montana, a vehicle cannot be titled without being registered. Both the title and registration processes must occur simultaneously. Be prepared to pay the necessary fees for both at the County Treasurer’s office.
Whether you’re a new Montana resident or purchasing a vehicle from out of state, understanding the title process is critical to ensuring that your vehicle is properly registered and legally yours. Always check with your local County Treasurer’s office for the latest procedures and to confirm you have the correct documents.
Unique Title Requirements for Out-of-State Vehicles
For those purchasing vehicles from states with unique title requirements—such as emissions testing or other specific state laws—it’s essential to address these requirements before Montana will process the title. Some states may require an emissions test or a safety inspection, and these must be completed before Montana can issue a title.
It’s best to verify these requirements early on to avoid any delays. You can check specific out-of-state title requirements through the Montana MVD.
Temporary Titles for Dealership Purchases
Additionally, Montana residents purchasing vehicles from dealerships may receive a temporary title while waiting for the official title to be processed. This temporary title allows legal driving, but it’s crucial to follow up to ensure the permanent title is issued before the temporary one expires.
Dealing with VIN Issues
If your vehicle’s VIN has issues—such as discrepancies due to accidents or previous title branding—it’s important to address this with the Montana MVD. In such cases, you may need to submit additional documentation or undergo a VIN inspection by law enforcement.
For guidance on VIN issues, refer to the Montana Department of Justice’s VIN inspection guidelines.
Handling Vehicles with Lienholders
When a vehicle has a lienholder, the title will be held by the lienholder until the loan is paid off. If you are purchasing a vehicle with an outstanding lien, the lienholder must release their interest in the vehicle before the title can be transferred.
Montana’s MVD recommends working closely with the lienholder to ensure proper title transfer once the loan is settled. You can read more on lienholder procedures from the Montana MVD Lienholder Page.
Processing Time for Title Transfers
It’s important to remember that the titling process in Montana can take several weeks, especially if you’re dealing with out-of-state transfers, replacements, or complex lien situations. Be sure to plan ahead and allow ample time for processing.
For further information, visit the Montana MVD Vehicle Registration page.
If you have questions about our service agreement, please contact us at:
Montana Registration Services LLC
Email: cs@lc.mtregistrationservices.com
Website: https://mtregistrationservices.com/
Phone: 406-540-6801
Address: 2718 Montana Ave, Suite 100, Billings, MT 59101
