How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in New Jersey
New Jersey has a 10–30 days wait period before you can begin the title process. Here is everything a towing company, storage facility, or property owner needs to know.
Quick Reference
Wait Period & Reporting
10–30 days wait required. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
Notifying the Owner
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder
Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
Lienholder Rights
Lienholder must be notified and given time to respond
Failure to notify a lienholder properly can void the entire abandoned vehicle title process.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title Application
Process varies by state. Typically initiated by a towing company, storage facility, or property owner.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Must follow state-specific notice and wait period requirements
- All liens must be resolved before a clean title can issue
- Storage or towing facility typically must be licensed
New Jersey-Specific Note
New Jersey-Specific Facts for Abandoned Vehicle Title
New Jersey Vehicle transfer fees and requirements
In New Jersey, the title transfer fee is $60 and registration costs $35.50 - $84 based on vehicle weight and age. Vehicle sales are subject to 6.625% sales tax; private sales may use a reduced rate schedule. New Jersey does not require notarization for private-party vehicle transfers. Emission testing is required in New Jersey — verify the vehicle passes before completing the sale.
- MVC (Motor Vehicle Commission) handles titles and registration
- Emissions inspection required at MVC stations
- Insurance must be obtained before registration
- Lemon law applies to used vehicles from dealers
Official New Jersey bill of sale form
The official New Jersey bill of sale form is OS/SS-32 (Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale). BillOfSaleNow generates a document that meets all New Jersey requirements and can be used in place of the official form.
New Jersey sales tax on vehicle purchases
New Jersey has a 6.625% state sales tax rate. Flat 6.625% statewide; no additional local vehicle taxes. Private-party vehicle sales in New Jersey are subject to sales tax. Sales tax applies to private party vehicle purchases. The title transfer fee is $60.
New Jersey bill of sale statistics
BillOfSaleNow has generated 2,183 bill of sale documents for New Jersey transactions, with 59 generated this month alone. The most popular vehicle type is car.
More New Jersey Vehicle Guides
- Emissions Inspection in New Jersey
- Extended Warranty Cancellation in New Jersey
- Fleet Vehicle Sale in New Jersey
- GAP Insurance Claim in New Jersey
- Government Surplus Vehicle in New Jersey
- Hit-and-Run Vehicle Claim in New Jersey
Each guide is written specifically for New Jersey laws, agencies, and procedures. Bookmark for future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires a 10–30 days wait period. Wait periods vary by state and whether the vehicle is on public or private property.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in New Jersey?
Certified mail to last registered owner and lienholder. Notice is required before any abandoned vehicle title can be issued. Contact your state DMV for specific requirements.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in New Jersey?
DMV fees + towing and storage charges. Costs vary widely by state and accumulate with each day in storage.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in New Jersey?
45–90 days. Process includes wait periods, notice periods, and DMV processing time.
Does New Jersey require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Not for the standard process. Some states require a surety bond if the title history is unclear or the vehicle has a prior out-of-state registration.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant New Jersey bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: State DMV. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.