How to Get a Title for an Abandoned Vehicle in New York
New York has a 10 days (suspected abandoned) → 30 days (confirmed abandoned) 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 days (suspected abandoned) → 30 days (confirmed abandoned) wait required. A vehicle parked on the same spot for 10 days on public property may be tagged as suspected abandoned. After 30 days of documented non-movement, law enforcement can authorize removal.
Notifying the Owner
Law enforcement notification required; DMV certified mail to last registered owner
New York process flows through law enforcement, not private parties. Private property owners must contact local police to initiate.
Lienholder Rights
NYDMV notifies lienholder. Lienholder has 30 days to respond or is deemed to have waived.
New York liens under Lien Law §201-a attach to the vehicle automatically when storage fees exceed $100.
The Title Application Process
Form/Program: Abandoned Vehicle Title via Law Enforcement — MV-78B
Private parties cannot directly apply; law enforcement submits the report to DMV. Garages and tow yards file Form MV-65 for storage liens.
Restrictions & Requirements
- Private parties cannot independently apply — law enforcement must be involved
- Salvage titles cannot be cleared through the abandoned vehicle process
- NYC has additional TLC regulations for tow trucks
New York-Specific Note
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before a vehicle is considered abandoned in New York?
New York requires a 10 days (suspected abandoned) → 30 days (confirmed abandoned) wait period. A vehicle parked on the same spot for 10 days on public property may be tagged as suspected abandoned. After 30 days of documented non-movement, law enforcement can authorize removal.
How do I notify the owner of an abandoned vehicle in New York?
Law enforcement notification required; DMV certified mail to last registered owner. New York process flows through law enforcement, not private parties. Private property owners must contact local police to initiate.
How much does it cost to get an abandoned vehicle title in New York?
$50 DMV fee; storage fees regulated by county. New York City tow rates are regulated by TLC: $185 initial tow + $20/day storage. Upstate rates vary by county.
How long does the abandoned vehicle title process take in New York?
60–120 days. New York's law enforcement involvement adds time. Expect 2–4 months from abandonment to clean title.
Does New York require a surety bond for an abandoned vehicle title?
Yes. New York often requires a $1,500–$5,000 surety bond for vehicles where chain-of-title is unclear, valid for 3 years.
Selling the Vehicle After You Get Title?
Create a compliant New York bill of sale to protect yourself in the transaction.
Generate Bill of SaleSource: New York State DMV Abandoned Vehicle. Abandoned vehicle laws change frequently — verify current wait periods with your state DMV.