car with bonded title

How to Get a New Hampshire Bonded Title

This guide is for informational purposes only. SuretyBonds.com does not regulate or manage bonded title issuance. Contact the New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles for the latest official requirements.

How to Get a New Hampshire Bonded Title

A New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire title, it allows you to obtain legal ownership while protecting the state and future owners from potential fraud.

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

Who Needs a New Hampshire Bonded Title?

New Hampshire Revised Statute § 261:10 requires individuals to file a surety bond if they lack sufficient proof of vehicle ownership. The bond provides financial protection for previous owners, lienholders or future buyers if there are any issues related to the New Hampshire bonded title. After your application and bond are approved, the state will issue your bonded title.

How to Get a Bonded Title in New Hampshire

Follow the four steps below to receive your New Hampshire bonded title.  

How to Get a Bonded Title in New Hampshire

Step 1: Verify your eligibility

Contact your local DMV office to confirm if you need and qualify for a bonded title. The DMV will perform a record search to identify previous owners and active liens:

  • If a previous owner appears as the title holder, send them a certified letter asking them to transfer the title to you.
  • If a lien exists, send a certified letter to the lienholder requesting a lien release. You must resolve all liens before proceeding.

Step 2: Purchase a certificate of title bond

Purchase a title bond worth 1.5 times your vehicle’s appraised value. Calculate your vehicle’s value using Kelley Blue Book or NADA. Then, buy your New Hampshire certificate of title bond online 24/7 at SuretyBonds.com starting at just $100. Get an instant quote today. 

Step 3: Request a bonded title application

Visit your local city or town clerk’s office to request a bonded title application. Include basic vehicle and owner information such as the VIN, name, address, bond amount, and the vehicle's year, make, and model.

Step 4: Submit application and supporting documents

Mail the following materials to your local New Hampshire DMV or town/city clerk’s office:

  1. Completed bonded title application
  2. Title bond documentation
  3. Proof of ownership (e.g., bill of sale)
  4. Certified letter copies
  5. Lien release form (if applicable)
  6. Any other requested documentation
  7. $50 application fee 

After submitting your application, the DMV will review the materials and process your request. The approval process generally takes 1–4 weeks. For updates or additional questions, contact your local DMV office directly.

How Much Does a New Hampshire Bonded Title Cost?

Costs vary depending on the bond amount, but you can generally expect to pay $150–$300 to obtain a New Hampshire bonded title.

New Hampshire certificate of title bond costs start at $100. The exact cost varies depending on the surety bond amount required by the New Hampshire Division of Motor Vehicles:

  • Bond amounts up to $5,000: $100
  • Bond amounts from $5,001 to $50,000: $20 per $1,000 of coverage, starting at $100
  • Bond amounts over $50,000: Credit-based pricing, starting at $750

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

Do I Need to Renew My Bonded Title?

No, New Hampshire title bonds are valid for three years and do not require renewal. After three years, you can apply for a regular title as long as there are no claims against the bond. 

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Last Updated: December 13, 2024

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