How to Get a Connecticut Bonded Title

A Connecticut bonded title is a legal document used to establish ownership of a vehicle when the original title is lost, unavailable or can not be transferred. It allows individuals who purchase a vehicle without a proper Connecticut title to obtain legal ownership while protecting the state and future vehicle owners from financial damages.

Continue reading for step-by-step instructions, application costs and bonding information. 

Who Needs a Connecticut Bonded Title?

Section 14-176 of the Connecticut Circuit Court Reports requires individuals without proof of vehicle ownership to file a surety bond before receiving a title. A bonded title protects the state from fraudulent claims of vehicle ownership. You may need a bonded title under the following conditions:

• You did not receive a title when you purchased the vehicle.
• The title you received was incorrectly assigned to you.
• You lost the title before transferring it into your name.
• The title was stolen, destroyed or severely damaged.
• The title is in the name of a previous owner who cannot be located.

To be eligible for a bonded title, you must be a permanent resident of Connecticut and the vehicle must be located in the state. 

How to Get a Bonded Title in Connecticut

Follow the four steps below to receive your Connecticut bonded title(s).  

Step 1: Confirm if you need a bonded title 

Contact the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to verify if you need a bonded title. They are typically required for any vehicles purchased in Connecticut that are under 20 years old without an original title.

Step 2: Obtain a surety bond

File a non-cancelable, five-year bond worth two times the appraised value of the vehicle. Calculate your vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book or NADA. Then, buy your Connecticut certificate of title bond online 24/7 at SuretyBonds.com starting at just $100. 

Step 3: Gather documents

Collect the supporting documents below for your application:

• Proof of ownership (bill of sale or previous title)
• Valid identification
• $25 check made out to “DMV”
• A letter of release from any lienholders (if applicable)
• Connecticut Q-1 (Supplemental Assignment of Ownership Form)
• Any additional documents requested by the DMV or bonding company

Step 4: Submit your application

Submit your completed application and title bond to your nearest DMV office. Once approved, you’ll receive your bonded title by mail, allowing you to register, insure, or sell your vehicle. 

How Much Does a Connecticut Bonded Title Cost?

In addition to the $25 application fee, the cost of a Connecticut bonded title varies based on the required bond amount as outlined below:

• Under $6,000 coverage: $100
• $6,000–$50,000 coverage: $15 per $1,000 of coverage
• Over $50,000 coverage: Credit-based pricing starting at $750

Get an instant quote for your Connecticut certificate of title bond now. 

Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?

No, your Connecticut bonded title and title bond will expire five years from the effective dates and won’t require renewal. If there are no bond claims or liens on the vehicle, you’ll receive a standard title after three years. 

More Resources

• Chapter 247: Uniform Motor Vehicle Certificate of Title and Antitheft Act
• Connecticut Registration and Title Application
• Connecticut DMV: Proof of Ownership