If you don't have a copy of the title for your car, ie you lost it, you can go in person to a TxDMV Regional Service Center and get a replacement on the spot, or fill out and mail Form VTR-34 and get a replacement title in a week or two.
Technically all you need is a bill of sale to buy/sell a car. Scrawl out a bill of sale with a pen and literally ANY piece of paper. BUT the new owner cannot register the car until they have a title. If you don't have a title because it has been lost, then either you need to contact the state and get a replacement.
Bought a Vehicle Without a Title? Bonded Title Application (Form VTR-130-SOF) Any supporting evidence of ownership (Bill of Sale, Invoice, Cancelled Check, etc.) An original release(s) of lien or letter(s) of no interest if the vehicle has a lien of less than 10 years old. Acceptable photo ID.
In order to register a vehicle subject to the Alabama title law, a title application must be completed before a registration can be processed. When a certificate of title is not required, only a registration is issued.
While it is illegal to sell a car without proof of ownership in most jurisdictions, there are legal ways to sell a car even if you don't physically have (or can't find) the title. States that have an Electronic Lien and Titling (ELT) Program like Maryland and Virginia will allow you to trade in a car without a title.
Requirements for Obtaining a Car Title in Maryland You must provide proof of ownership, such as the previous title or a bill of sale, to establish that the vehicle belongs to you.
What paperwork do I need to privately sell a car in Maryland? There are a few documents which sellers of vehicles in Maryland will need: Vehicle certificate of title (Fill out Form VR-018 if you need a duplicate title) Notarized bill of sale, if applicable (Form VR-181)
When a certificate of title is not required, only a registration is issued. The licensing official or their appointed deputy is required to inspect the vehicle prior to issuing a registration.
The nine non-title-holding states are Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Arizona, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Maryland, and South Dakota. In these states, even if you're financing, the title is sent to you after you take delivery of the vehicle and you typically get it within two to six weeks.
Every motor vehicle not more than 35 model years old, which is domiciled in Alabama and is required to be registered in Alabama, is required to have an Alabama certificate of title.