An Arizona bonded title is a legal document used to establish ownership of a vehicle or mobile home when the original title is lost, unavailable or can not be transferred. It allows individuals who purchase a vehicle without a proper title to obtain legal ownership while protecting the Arizona Secretary of State and future vehicle owners from financial losses or damages.

Continue reading for step-by-step instructions, application costs and bonding information.

Who Needs an Arizona Bonded Title?

Arizona Revised Statutes Title 28 Section 2057 requires individuals without proof of vehicle ownership to file a surety bond. Typically, you will need an Arizona 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.

How to Get a Bonded Title in Arizona

Simply follow the steps below to receive your Arizona bonded title.

Step 1: Contact the DMV

Contact your local DMV to determine your eligibility for a bonded title, understand requirements, and conduct a vehicle history search to confirm any existing liens. If liens are found, fill out the Arizona Motor Vehicle Record Request.

Step 2: Complete a level 1 vehicle inspection

Visit a Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) office where a law enforcement officer or inspector will verify your vehicle's VIN number and confirm it has not been stolen.

Step 3: Get an emissions test (if applicable)

If you reside in or regularly travel to the Phoenix or Tucson metropolitan areas and your vehicle registration has expired, your vehicle must undergo an emissions test.

Step 4: Fill out the Bonded Title Affidavit

Obtain and complete the Bonded Title Affidavit from your local Arizona MVD office. Detail how you acquired the vehicle and why the title isn't available.

Step 5: Send certified letters (if applicable)

If the vehicle's record shows the involvement of another party, send certified letters requesting they sign over the title or provide a notarized statement disclaiming ownership.

Responses must be received within 30 days. If responding with the title or notarized statement, you will not need the bond anymore.

Step 6: Submit application

Apply for your Arizona bonded title by submitting the following documents:

Vehicle inspection verification
Title search records
Lien releases (if applicable)
Emissions test (if applicable)
Certified letter results (if applicable)
Bond Affidavit
Bond Title Application

After reviewing your application, the MVD will determine the required bond amount calculated at 1.5x the vehicle’s value.

Step 7: Purchase a surety bond

Next, you can buy your Arizona certificate of title bond instantly online at SuretyBonds.com. Your premium will be based on your vehicle value and bond amount. Premiums for the state-required 3-year term start at $100.

Step 8: File your bonded title request

Finally, submit your title bond and any supporting documents to the MVD to receive your bonded title.

Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?

Your Arizona bonded title and title bond will expire three years from the effective dates and won’t require renewal.

Can I Sell a Vehicle With a Bonded Title in Arizona?

Yes, an Arizona bonded title allows you to register, insure and even transfer ownership of a vehicle when the original title is lost.

How to Get an Arizona Bonded Title