A car title is one of the most essential pieces of paperwork you have. If you’re thinking of buying a car in Silver Spring, MD, then it’s important to know how the Maryland titling system works and what you need to do.
Your car’s title is a state-issued document that shows who owns the vehicle. Without it, it can be extremely difficult to prove that you’re the legal owner, as it includes important information about you and the vehicle, including your name and the vehicle identification number, or VIN. The title is issued by the Maryland MVA at the time the vehicle is sold, and the process will be dealt with by your dealership on your behalf.
However, if you took out a loan to pay for the car, then the title will be held by the lender until you’ve paid it off in full. The title will include details such as the odometer reading at the time of sale, the VIN, the weight class of the vehicle, and the names of previous buyers and sellers.
Types of Title
There are generally two types of titles you’re likely to see when shopping for a car – clear or clean titles and branded titles. A clear title shows that the vehicle hasn’t suffered any major damage or repairs and hasn’t been recalled by the manufacturer due to a defect. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the car has never been in an accident, just that there’s a clear record of previous owners and that it hasn’t been written off by an insurer.
Branded titles, on the other hand, show that the car has been in a serious accident at some point and that it has probably been written off. It could also mean that there’s been water damage or that the odometer might have been tampered with. Branded title cars are usually much cheaper, but there could be a good reason for that!
Getting a Title in Silver Spring, MD
When you buy a car, your dealership will sort out the paperwork for the title on your behalf. This will mean submitting the correct documents to the Maryland MVA. The documents required include proof of identity, such as your driver’s license, the bill of sale to prove ownership, proof of insurance, and the relevant fee, which is about $100. It’s worth noting that you’ll also need to obtain a registration certificate to prove your new vehicle is safe for public roads.
Visit our DARCARS Toyota of Silver Spring blog today to discover more related topics like ‘7 Most Crucial Tips for New Drivers in Silver Spring, MD.’
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