How to Get an Idaho Bonded Title

An Idaho 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. If you purchase a vehicle without a proper title, it allows you to obtain legal ownership while protecting the state of Idaho and future vehicle owners from financial damages.

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

Who Needs an Idaho Bonded Title?

Idaho Code Section 49-523 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.

How to Get a Bonded Title in Idaho

Follow the five steps below to receive your Idaho bonded title.  

`Step 1: Request a motor vehicle record report

Using the information provided by the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD), request a Motor Vehicle Record Report from the relevant state(s). Send certified mail to notify any current owners or lienholders of your intent to title the vehicle in Idaho. 

Note: Keep all certified mail receipts and any returned mail to include in your application.

Step 2: Get an appraisal and VIN inspection

Schedule a vehicle appraisal and VIN inspection with a licensed Idaho vehicle dealer. Complete form ITD 3504 (Vehicle Appraisal and Vehicle Identification Number Inspection).

Step 3: Purchase a certificate of title bond

Calculate your vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book or NADA. You’ll need to purchase an Idaho certificate of title bond worth 1.5 times the vehicle’s value. 

Buy your Idaho certificate of title bond online 24/7 starting as low as $100. Get a free quote today!

Step 4: Complete the indemnifying affidavit

Fill out form ITD 3410 (Indemnifying Affidavit), with the following details:

• Reason for the absence of a title or ownership document
• Explanation of how and when you acquired the vehicle
• State where the vehicle was last titled or registered
• Seller's name and address

Step 5: Submit your application

Visit your local DMV office and submit the following documents:

• Motor vehicle record report 
• Vehicle appraisal and VIN inspection (Form ITD 3504)
• Indemnifying affidavit (Form ITD 3410)
• Original vehicle ownership bond 
• Certified mail receipts and returned mail for any owners or lienholders
• Lien releases, if applicable
• Proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale, invoices)
• 6% sales/use tax payment
• $25 title application fee

After submitting your application, the DMV will review your documents, which may take several days to weeks. If approved, you will receive a bonded title once the review confirms no conflicting ownership claims.

How Much Does an Idaho Bonded Title Cost?

You can expect to pay $125–$800 for your Idaho bonded title based on the value of your vehicle. In addition to the $25 application fee, the cost of an Idaho bonded title varies based on the required bond amount as outlined below:

• $100–$10,000 title bond: $100
• $10,001–$50,000 title bond: Starts at $100, credit-based
• $50,001–$1,000,000 title bond: Starts at $750, credit-based

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

Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?

No, your Idaho bonded title and title bond will expire three years from the effective dates and won’t require renewal. As long as there are no bond claims, you can apply for a standard title after the three year period.