How to Get a Title for a Dirt Bike: Full Walkthrough

Can you get a title for a dirt bike? Yes, you can get a title for a dirt bike, although the process varies significantly by state. What is a title for a dirt bike? A dirt bike title is a legal document that proves ownership of the motorcycle, much like a car title. It’s essential for selling, registering, and sometimes insuring your dirt bike, especially if you plan to ride it on public lands or make it street legal.

Navigating the world of dirt bikes often means dealing with ownership documentation, or the lack thereof. Many riders acquire dirt bikes without titles, either through private sales, inherited vehicles, or simply because titles weren’t a priority for off-road use. However, if you plan to sell your dirt bike, register it for certain types of riding, or convert it for street use, obtaining a title becomes a crucial step. This guide will walk you through the process of getting a title for your dirt bike, covering various scenarios and state requirements.

How To Get A Title For A Dirt Bike
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Why You Might Need a Dirt Bike Title

Before diving into the “how,” let’s clarify the “why.” While many dirt bikes are used exclusively on private property or designated off-road areas where a title isn’t strictly required for operation, there are several compelling reasons why obtaining one is beneficial or even necessary:

Selling the Dirt Bike: A title makes it much easier to sell your dirt bike. Most buyers will want proof of ownership, and a clear title significantly increases its resale value and marketability. Without a title, you might face difficulties finding a buyer or have to accept a lower price.
Registration for Certain Trails and Parks: Many off-road riding parks and public trail systems require proof of ownership or registration, which often necessitates a title. This helps track vehicles and ensures they are being used legally within designated areas.
Making a Dirt Bike Street Legal: This is a major reason many people seek titles. To legally ride a dirt bike on public roads, you’ll need to register it, which absolutely requires a title and usually involves meeting specific safety and equipment standards. This transforms your off-road machine into a street legal dirt bike title holder.
Proof of Ownership: In cases of theft recovery or disputes, a title serves as definitive legal proof that you own the vehicle.
Insurance: While not always mandatory for off-road use, if you choose to insure your dirt bike, especially against theft or damage, a title will likely be required by the insurance company.

Initial Steps: Gathering Information and Documents

The journey to obtaining a dirt bike title begins with understanding what you currently have and what information you can gather. This initial research can save you a lot of time and potential headaches.

What You’ll Need to Start

The Dirt Bike Itself: Obviously, you need the physical motorcycle.
Any Existing Paperwork: This could include a bill of sale, previous registration documents, a previous owner’s name and address, or even just a handwritten receipt. Even incomplete or old documents can be helpful.
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This is crucial. Every dirt bike manufactured after 1981 has a 17-digit VIN. Older bikes might have a different serial number format. The VIN is usually located on the steering headstock.

Performing a Dirt Bike VIN Check

Before you even approach a motor vehicle agency, it’s a good idea to perform a dirt bike VIN check. This can help you identify:

Ownership History: While not always definitive for titling, it can give you clues about previous owners.
Stolen Status: This is paramount. Running the VIN through a law enforcement database or a commercial VIN check service can alert you if the bike has been reported stolen. Buying a stolen vehicle will land you in serious trouble.
Recall Information: Some VIN checks can also provide information about manufacturer recalls.

Commercial VIN check services are readily available online. While they may cost a small fee, they can provide valuable peace of mind.

Common Scenarios for Obtaining a Dirt Bike Title

The process for obtaining motorcycle title documentation for a dirt bike depends heavily on how you acquired it and its previous titling status. Here are the most common scenarios:

Scenario 1: You Bought a Dirt Bike with a Title (Used Dirt Bike Title Transfer)

This is the simplest scenario. If you purchased a dirt bike from someone who provided you with a properly signed-over title, you are looking at a standard used dirt bike title transfer.

Steps for Used Dirt Bike Title Transfer:

Bill of Sale: Ensure you have a bill of sale that includes the seller’s and buyer’s names, addresses, dates, the bike’s VIN, make, model, and year, and the purchase price. Both parties should sign it.
Signed Title: The previous owner must sign the title over to you in the designated section. Make sure all the information on the title matches the bike and your identification.
Visit Your Local DMV/MVA: Take the signed title, bill of sale, and your identification to your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), or equivalent agency.
Pay Fees and Taxes: You will likely need to pay transfer fees, title fees, and potentially sales tax on the purchase price of the bike.
Receive Your New Title: The agency will process your application and mail you a new title in your name. This can take several weeks.

Scenario 2: You Bought a Dirt Bike Without a Title

This is a common situation and often requires more steps. Titling an unregistered dirt bike that you purchased without a title can be challenging, but not always impossible.

Options When You Don’t Have a Title:

Contact the Seller: Your first and best option is to contact the person you bought the bike from and ask them to obtain a duplicate title or help you get one. They were the last legal owner.
Bonded Title (or Certificate of Title Surety Bond): If the seller is unreachable or unable to help, many states offer a process for obtaining a title through a surety bond. This is essentially an insurance policy that protects the state and any future owners from claims against the vehicle.
- You’ll typically need to prove you made a good-faith effort to find the previous owner.
- You’ll need a dirt bike VIN check to confirm it’s not stolen.
- You’ll likely need to get the bike appraised.
- You’ll apply for a “bonded title” or “title bond” through a state-approved surety company.
- Once approved, you’ll receive a title that is legally recognized but may have a notation indicating it was issued via a surety bond.
Affidavit of Ownership / Lost Title Application: Some states allow you to fill out an affidavit stating you are the legal owner and have made a good-faith effort to obtain the title, especially if the bike is very old or was purchased through an estate sale where titles were lost. This process often requires supporting documentation like a bill of sale, proof of possession, and potentially a VIN inspection.

Scenario 3: You Inherited a Dirt Bike

If you inherited a dirt bike, the process usually involves proving your legal right to the vehicle.

Steps for Inherited Dirt Bikes:

Death Certificate: You’ll likely need a copy of the deceased owner’s death certificate.
Probate Documents: If the estate went through probate, you may need court documents (like Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration) that name you as the executor or beneficiary.
Affidavit of Heirship: In some cases, you might need an “Affidavit of Heirship,” which is a sworn statement by family members or witnesses confirming your relationship to the deceased and your right to inherit the property.
Previous Title (if available): If the deceased had the title, you’ll need to present it along with the supporting documents. If the title was lost, you’ll likely follow the procedures for a lost title (similar to Scenario 2).
DMV Visit: Take all documentation to your local DMV to apply for a title transfer into your name.

Scenario 4: You Found or Built a Dirt Bike (Homemade/Salvage)

Legalizing a dirt bike that you built yourself or found without any previous ownership documentation is the most complex scenario.

Considerations for Homemade or Found Bikes:

Component Titles: If you built the bike from parts, you might need to show proof of ownership for the major components, especially the frame, which typically carries the VIN. This could involve bills of sale for individual parts.
VIN Inspection: The state will almost certainly require a thorough VIN inspection, often performed by a law enforcement officer or a designated state inspector. They will verify the VIN, check for tampering, and ensure it doesn’t match a stolen vehicle.
Affidavit of Construction: You may need to complete an affidavit detailing how the bike was constructed.
Bonded Title: This is often the route for homemade vehicles, as they typically lack prior titling history.

State-Specific Dirt Bike Title Requirements

This is where things get tricky. State dirt bike title requirements vary significantly. What’s straightforward in one state might be a major hurdle in another. It’s imperative to check with your specific state’s DMV or equivalent agency.

Here’s a general overview of what to expect and key differences:

Common Titling Requirements Across States:

Proof of Ownership: This is always the primary requirement, whether it’s a previous title, bill of sale, or other supporting documentation.
VIN Inspection: Many states require a VIN inspection, especially for bikes without previous titles or for street-legal conversions.
Sales Tax: Most states will require you to pay sales tax based on the purchase price or the bike’s fair market value.
Title Fees, Registration Fees, and Plate Fees: Various fees are associated with the process.

Notable State Differences:

Some States Don’t Title Off-Road Vehicles: A surprising number of states do not issue titles for vehicles that are exclusively designed for off-road use. Instead, they may issue a “registration card,” “certificate of ownership,” or simply require a bill of sale for proof of ownership. This is common for utility vehicles and ATVs as well. If your state falls into this category, you won’t be obtaining motorcycle title documentation in the traditional sense for off-road use only.
Street Legal Requirements: If your goal is a street legal dirt bike title, the requirements are much stricter. You’ll need to meet safety standards, which can include headlights, taillights, brake lights, mirrors, a horn, DOT-approved tires, and often a specific emissions compliance. The process for this typically involves a separate inspection and application for street registration.
Minimum Age of Vehicle for Simplified Titling: Some states have provisions for older vehicles (e.g., 15-25 years old) that may allow for simplified titling procedures if original documentation is unavailable, sometimes through an affidavit of ownership.
Non-Resident Titling: If you bought a dirt bike in one state and live in another, you’ll typically title and register it in your state of residence. You may need to surrender any out-of-state registration.

How to Find Your State’s Specific Requirements:

Visit Your State’s DMV Website: This is the most reliable source of information. Search for terms like “motorcycle title,” “off-road vehicle registration,” “VIN inspection,” or “bonded title.”
Call Your Local DMV Office: Staff can answer specific questions about your situation.
Look for “Off-Road Vehicle Title” Information: Some states have separate sections for off-road vehicles.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for a Dirt Bike Title

Let’s break down the application process generally, keeping in mind that specifics will vary by state.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Documentation Needs

Review your situation: Do you have a title? Did you buy it without one? Inherited it?
Check your state’s laws: Confirm if your state actually titles dirt bikes for off-road use or if you need a title for street registration only.
Gather all available paperwork: Bill of sale, old registration, previous title, death certificates, etc.
Perform a dirt bike VIN check.

Step 2: Complete the Necessary Application Forms

Your state’s DMV will have specific forms for:

Application for Title
Application for Registration (if applicable)
Affidavit of Ownership (if applicable)
Bill of Sale (your copy and theirs)
VIN Inspection Certificate (if required)

These forms are usually available for download on the DMV website. Fill them out completely and accurately.

Step 3: Obtain a VIN Inspection (If Required)

If your state requires a VIN inspection, you’ll need to schedule this.

Where to get it: This might be at a DMV inspection station, a police station, or a certified mechanic.
What they check: They verify the VIN against your application and check for any issues like theft or tampering.

Step 4: Secure a Surety Bond (If Necessary)

If you are pursuing a bonded title, you will first need to obtain a surety bond from an approved insurance provider.

Get Quotes: Shop around for the best rates. The bond amount is usually a percentage of the bike’s value.
Submit Application: You’ll submit your application, proof of ownership efforts, and other required documents to the surety company.

Step 5: Submit Your Application Package to the DMV

Once you have all your forms completed and any required supporting documents (bill of sale, VIN inspection, surety bond, etc.), you’ll submit them to your local DMV office.

Be Prepared: Bring all original documents and copies.
Pay Fees: Be ready to pay all applicable title fees, registration fees, and taxes.

Step 6: Wait for Your Title and Registration

After submission, the DMV will process your application. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks or even months, depending on the state and the complexity of your application.

Confirmation: You might receive a temporary registration or permit while your official documents are being processed.
Receive Documents: Your new title and registration (if applicable) will be mailed to you.

Special Considerations: Legalizing a Dirt Bike for Street Use

Achieving a street legal dirt bike title involves an additional layer of requirements beyond just ownership.

Common Modifications for Street Legality:

Headlight: High and low beams.
Taillight: With a brake light function.
Turn Signals: Front and rear.
Horn: Audible for traffic.
Mirrors: At least one, often two.
DOT-Approved Tires: Tires that meet Department of Transportation safety standards.
Speedometer: Required by many states.
Tachometer: Sometimes required.
Brake Lights: Activated by both front and rear brakes.
Exhaust System: May need to meet noise and emissions standards.
VIN Stamping/Affixing: If the frame doesn’t have a VIN or it’s damaged, the state may assign a new VIN and require it to be stamped or affixed correctly.

The Street Legal Titling Process:

Ensure the Bike is Titled (or obtain a title): You generally need a base title before you can convert it for street use.
Complete Modifications: Make all the necessary upgrades to meet your state’s safety and equipment requirements.
Schedule a Safety Inspection: Many states require a specific safety inspection for converted dirt bikes. This is different from a VIN inspection.
DMV Visit: Take proof of ownership (your dirt bike title), receipts for modifications, the passed safety inspection report, and all necessary application forms to the DMV.
Pay Fees: You’ll pay title transfer fees, registration fees, license plate fees, and any applicable taxes.
Receive Street-Legal Title and Plates: If approved, you’ll receive a title designated for street use and license plates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get a title for a dirt bike that’s very old and I don’t have any paperwork for?
A: It’s difficult but often possible through a bonded title process or an affidavit of ownership, especially if your state has provisions for older or antique vehicles. You’ll need to prove ownership and that the bike isn’t stolen.
Q: What if the previous owner’s name on the title is misspelled?
A: This is a common problem. You’ll likely need to provide documentation to correct the error, such as a notarized statement from the seller or potentially a corrected title from the seller. Contact your DMV for their specific procedure.
Q: Do I need a title to ride my dirt bike on private property?
A: Generally, no. Proof of ownership (like a bill of sale) is usually sufficient for private property use, but always check local regulations.
Q: How long does it take to get a dirt bike title?
A: Processing times vary greatly by state. It can range from a few weeks to a few months.
Q: My dirt bike doesn’t have a VIN, is that a problem?
A: Yes, a VIN is crucial for titling and registration. If your bike was manufactured before VINs were standardized or the VIN is missing, the state will likely require a VIN inspection and may assign a new VIN to the vehicle.
Q: What’s the difference between a title and registration?
A: A title proves ownership. Registration is a permit issued by the state that allows you to legally operate the vehicle on public roads or designated areas, usually for a specific period (e.g., one year). You typically need a title to register a vehicle.

Conclusion

Obtaining a motorcycle title for a dirt bike, especially one without a clear history, can seem daunting. However, by systematically gathering information, understanding your state’s specific rules, and being prepared to follow a sometimes complex process, you can successfully secure legal ownership documentation. Whether for resale, legal off-road access, or the exciting prospect of a street legal dirt bike title, the effort is often well worth it. Always start by consulting your local DMV for the most accurate and up-to-date information relevant to your specific situation.