Surety Bonded Titles in Alabama
Did you purchase a vehicle without receiving a title? Can’t locate the seller, or they refuse to provide the title? A Surety Bonded Title may be the solution.
In Alabama, when a title is missing and ownership cannot be verified through standard documentation, the state allows you to apply for a bonded title. This process ensures legal ownership and protects all parties involved.
What Is a Surety Bonded Title?
A Surety Bonded Title is a legal title issued by the State of Alabama after the buyer secures a surety bond. This bond is a three-party agreement involving:
Principal – You, the vehicle owner applying for the bonded title.
Obligee – The State of Alabama, which requires the bond.
Surety – An insurance company licensed to issue bonds in Alabama.
The bond guarantees that you are the rightful owner and protects previous owners, lienholders, and future buyers from any undisclosed claims for three years.
Bond Amounts by Vehicle Type and Age
The bond amount is based on the type and age of the vehicle:
Trailers
Less than 5 years old: $25,000
5 to 9 years old: $10,000
10+ years old: $5,000
Passenger Vehicles & Pickup Trucks
Less than 5 years old: $50,000
5 to 9 years old: $25,000
10+ years old: $10,000
Trucks, Buses & RVs
Less than 5 years old: $100,000
5 to 9 years old: $50,000
10+ years old: $25,000
Motorcycles
Less than 5 years old: $25,000
5 to 9 years old: $10,000
10+ years old: $5,000
Manufactured Homes
Less than 10 years old: $50,000
10+ years old: $25,000
Required Documentation
To apply for a bonded title, you must submit:
Form MVT 10-1A: Request for Title Surety Bond via the ALDOR Surety Bond Portal
Form MVT 10-1: Certificate of Title Surety Bond, completed by you and the insurance company.
Bill of Sale: Must include:
Printed names and signatures of both buyer and seller
Vehicle Year, Make, Model, and VIN
Any other documents proving ownership (e.g., registration, repair receipts).
Important Notes
You must apply for the title within 90 days of executing the bond.
The issued title will include the statement: “THIS TITLE WAS SECURED UNDER THREE-YEAR SURETY BOND.”
Once issued, the bond protects against any undisclosed claims for three years