Bonded Title in North Dakota
A bonded title lets you register and own a vehicle when you cannot provide complete ownership documentation. In North Dakota, 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, North Dakota will issue you a clean, unbranded title.
Who Issues the Bond in North Dakota?
Your state DMV does not issue the bond directly — you must purchase it from a licensed surety insurer.
Search for "Licensed state-authorized surety company" in North Dakota 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 North Dakota
Requirements vary by state. Contact your state DMV to confirm the exact document checklist before applying.
Available at your state DMV office or official DMV website.
When Does the Bond Release?
Contact your state DMV after the bond period ends to request removal of the bonded notation and issuance of a standard clean title.
Bonded title requirements vary significantly by state. Always verify current requirements with your state DMV before purchasing a surety bond.
Bonded Title FAQ — North Dakota
A bonded title in North Dakota 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 North Dakota, the title fee is Varies by state. 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 North Dakota. 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 North Dakota is valid for 3 Years. Contact your state DMV after the bond period ends to request removal of the bonded notation and issuance of a standard clean title.