![[Datsun 1200 encyclopedia]](/wiki/upload/wiki.png)
Title of ownership is issued by the State and gives you ownership of a vehicle. 48 of the 50 American states require titles even for older cars. It is similar with many other countries. The title specifies who the legal owner is.
Should you buy a Datsun without a title? Perhaps. Work with your state's department of licensing/motor vehicle department to ensure that the purchase is appropriate handled.
Is it legal to sell a Datsun without a title? In some cases.
- If someone else has title to the car, you normally cannot legally sell it. Buyers who buy such a car may find their ownership contested, and will probably lose the car. The buyer can then sue the seller to recover costs. However if the ownership has been transferred without the title (some states have provision for this), then the existing title is void. Since states do not normally share databases with each other, your state won't be able to certify or verify title in other states.
- If there is no title, such as from a state that did not issue them, or a race car that was never titled, then sure of course. You can sell this wihout a title. Just give the buyer a bill of sale.
- If the car is abandoned, the states will have a special procedure for this. Many states require the police to impound it. Others may involve sending a registered mail to the owner, and if they do not reply, you can apply for a provisional title. After a period of two years or so, the car becomes yours. Or if it is on your property, you might be able to do a Lien Sale. Check for your state bureau for the possibilities.
- If the title is lost, that means the car is titled to someone. They can apply for a 'lost title' (usually requiring a certified signature) and give the paperwork to you.
- If the legal owner has died, or the car has passed though several hands it is less clear.
- Some states let you provisionally apply for a title to a vehicle wihout paperwork. Typically it is for a 2-year period, and if there is no contest, ownership passes to you. Some states require a Bond, others requiring an affidavit from you that you acquired from the legal owner (or some other affidavit). The danger is that someone may contest ownership and you lose the car.
NOTE: Connecticut does not issue titles for 1980 and older. Alabama does not issue titles for 1975 and older.