A Nevada bonded title lets you register and legally own a vehicle when the original title is missing or invalid. The process requires a vehicle inspection, written authorization from the Nevada DMV, and a surety bond worth 1.5 times the vehicle’s original Manufacturer’s Retail Price (MRP). The bond premium typically costs about $10 per $1,000 of the bond amount, with a minimum around $50, and the bond must stay active for 3 years.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| What it does | Lets you title a vehicle with a missing or invalid title |
| Bond amount | 1.5x the vehicle’s original MRP |
| Premium | About $10 per $1,000 of bond, minimum around $50 |
| Bond term | 3 years |
| Authorizing agency | Nevada DMV Title Research Section |
| Key form | Affidavit for Bonded Vehicle Title (VP271) |
Do not buy the bond first
The most common mistake is buying the bond before the DMV tells you the amount. Start with authorization.
Step by step
Step 1: Request authorization.
Contact the Nevada DMV Title Research Section to confirm you need a bond and to get the required bond amount.
- Phone: (775) 684-4810
- Address: Title Research Section, 555 Wright Way, Carson City, NV 89711
Step 2: Vehicle inspection.
Have the vehicle inspected to verify its VIN. It can be inspected at any Nevada DMV office, by a sworn law enforcement officer, or by a DMV-authorized business. Complete Parts 1 and 2 of the Affidavit for Bonded Vehicle Title (VP271) during the inspection.
Step 3: Submit to the DMV.
Send your paperwork to the Carson City Title Research Section, including the completed affidavit, copies of any ownership documents you have, and four photographs of the vehicle (front, back, and both sides).
Step 4: Purchase the surety bond.
After the DMV runs a theft search and returns your approved bond amount, buy the bond. The premium typically costs about $10 per $1,000 of the bond amount, with a minimum around $50, depending on your credit. The bond protects the state and any previous rightful owners and must remain active for 3 years.
Step 5: Finalize at the DMV.
Return to your local Nevada DMV with the finalized signed affidavit, the original surety bond, any additional documentation such as an emissions inspection (if you are in Clark or Washoe County) and proof of insurance, plus standard registration fees (typically around $28.25 depending on the transaction).
Frequently asked questions
How big does the bond have to be?
It must equal 1.5 times the vehicle’s original Manufacturer’s Retail Price (MRP). The DMV confirms the exact amount after a theft search.
How much does the bond cost?
The premium is typically about $10 per $1,000 of the bond amount, with a minimum around $50, depending on your credit.
How long does the bond last?
Three years. It protects the state and any previous owners during that time.
Do I buy the bond first?
No. Get DMV authorization and your assigned bond amount before purchasing the bond.
Who can inspect the vehicle?
Any Nevada DMV office, a sworn law enforcement officer, or a DMV-authorized business.
