Bonded Title in New York
A bonded title lets you register and own a vehicle when you cannot provide complete ownership documentation. In New York, the required bond is 1.5× Fair Market Value and the title is branded "BONDED" for 3 Years.
What Is a Bonded Title?
A bonded title (also called a surety bond title or certificate of title with bond) is issued when you possess a vehicle but cannot prove complete, unbroken ownership history through traditional documentation such as a signed title, bill of sale, or inheritance records.
The surety bond protects any previous owner who might later make a valid claim to the vehicle. If a prior owner appears and can prove their ownership during the 3 Years bond period, the bond pays their claim. After the bond period expires with no claims, New York will issue you a clean, unbranded title.
Who Issues the Bond in New York?
Must be a company licensed to write surety bonds in New York State
Search for "Licensed surety company (New York authorized)" in New York to find authorized insurers. National companies like Western Surety, Lexon Insurance, and IndemniCo are commonly used. Premiums are typically 1–3% of the bond amount annually.
Required Documents in New York
New York State Police can perform VIN inspections at designated locations — call ahead to schedule.
Available at DMV offices or downloadable from dmv.ny.gov
When Does the Bond Release?
After 3 years, contact NYSDMV to request the bonded notation be removed and a clean title issued
New York's VIN inspection requirement can add 1–3 weeks to the process, especially outside the five boroughs. Schedule the State Police VIN check as your first step to avoid timeline surprises.
Bonded Title FAQ — New York
A bonded title in New York is a certificate of title issued when you cannot prove complete ownership history through standard documentation. You purchase a surety bond (1.5× Fair Market Value) and the state issues a title branded "BONDED." After 3 Years with no adverse claims from prior owners, the bond is released and you can get a clean title.
In New York, the title fee is $50. The surety bond premium — purchased separately from a licensed insurer — is typically 1–3% of the bond amount per year. For a $10,000 vehicle, the bond amount would be approximately $15,000 and the annual premium would be $150–$450.
Yes, you can sell a vehicle with a bonded title in New York. However, buyers will see the "BONDED" brand on the title and may be unwilling to pay full market value. Full disclosure to the buyer is required. After 3 Years without adverse claims, you or the buyer can apply for a clean title.
A bonded title in New York is valid for 3 Years. After 3 years, contact NYSDMV to request the bonded notation be removed and a clean title issued