Check eligibility first
NCDMV’s bonded-title route requires inspection, appraisal, documentation and a bond. Its exclusions include abandoned vehicles, unresolved liens and parts-only or junk classifications.
Identify the right problem
A lost document for a vehicle already titled to you is different from missing ownership proof. Explain the available records to NCDMV before paying for a bond.
Set pickup expectations
Tell the purchasing partner that ownership documentation is being resolved. Keep official instructions and application records together and arrange the handover once the applicable route is complete.
Official sources.
Sources reviewed September 10, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.
Continue with your North Carolina sale.
North Carolina vehicle sale paperworkPrepare the title, buyer details and signatures for your handover.Replace a missing North Carolina titleAllow time for the duplicate-title process before collection.Return North Carolina plates before cancelling insuranceFinish the plate step in the right order after your sale.North Carolina scrap-car sales without a titleThe current exception is limited to qualifying vehicles and scrap-only buyers.