How to Get a Bonded Title in Colorado

The Colorado Department of Revenue requires a bonded title for individuals who cannot provide proof of ownership of their vehicle. A Colorado bonded title establishes legal ownership for vehicles with lost, missing or incomplete titles.

Colorado Bonded Title Requirements

To be eligible for a bonded title, you must live in Colorado and the vehicle must be located in the state. You will also need the following forms and documentation:

DR 2489 Motor Vehicle Requestor Release Affidavit of Intended Use
DR 2530 Lien Release (if there are existing liens)
PS Form 3811-A (if a prior title holder is found)
DR 2444 Statement of Fact
DR 2394 Bond Statement Guide & In Lieu of Bond Affidavit

How to Get a Colorado Bonded Title in 6 Steps

Read on to learn the six-step process for getting a bonded title in Colorado.

Step 1: Get your vehicle inspected

Colorado requires a VIN inspection when a vehicle changes ownership. You can schedule an inspection for $53 and they will provide you with a certified VIN Inspection form (DR 2704).

Step 2: Complete the Affidavit of Intended Use

Complete form DR 2489A Motor Vehicle Requestor Release Affidavit of Intended Use. Pay the $2.20 fee and use this form to request a title record search from the state. If a prior title holder is found, attempt to contact them via mail and submit proof through PS Form 3811-A.

This search will also reveal if there are active liens on the vehicle. If so, they must be released before you can receive a Colorado bonded title.

Step 3: Appraise the vehicle

You can get an appraisal by a state-licensed new or used motor vehicle dealer. The appraisal will need the following information:

Dealer signature
Date
Dealership's license number
Vehicle year, make and VIN
If not on the dealer's letterhead, the appraisal must be notarized and signed under penalty of perjury

Or, you can determine your vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book or NADA by circling or marking the current value on the printout. You’ll also need to provide a Statement of Fact (DR 2444) stating that you wish to use the amount listed as the retail market value.

Step 4: Purchase a certificate of title bond

Your title bond coverage must be 2 times the appraisal value of the vehicle. Once you know your bond amount, you can buy your Colorado certificate of title bond instantly online for as low as $100.

With SuretyBonds.com, you’ll receive an instant email with the official bond form. Print, sign and file the bond with the Department of Revenue.

As an alternative to bonding, you can prove financial responsibility with evidence of a savings account, deposit or certificate of deposit.

Step 5: Complete form DR 2394

Complete the Bond Statement Guide & In Lieu of Bond Affidavit (DR 2394). Explain in detail why the bonded title is necessary and what efforts have been made to locate the original.

Step 6: Submit all paperwork and documents

Once all your documents and forms are complete, print them out and bring them to your local DMV. They will help you finish the application materials and issue a bonded title once approved.

How to Renew Your Bonded Title

Bonded titles in Colorado last for a three-year period. After the bond expires, you’ll be eligible for a standard certificate of title. The Department of Revenue will return your bond as long as there are no pending claims

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bonded Title In Colorado

Most applicants can expect to pay around $163–500 to receive a bonded title in Colorado. Here’s a breakdown of the costs and fees:

Inspection fee: $53
Record search fee: $2.20
Title fee: $7.20
Lien release fee (if necessary): $7.20
Certificate of title bond: Starts at $100

Contact Information

Department of Revenue

Division of Motor Vehicles

1881 Pierce St.

Lakewood, CO 80214

(303)205-5600

[email protected]