Does anyone know how to transfer a car title from another country?

Question

So Im buying a motorcycle from a friend who resides in India. The motorcycle is titled in India, and Im having it shipped to the US (to maryland) So anyway, I have no idea how to transfer the title. Would it work the same way where he just signs a bill of sale and all that? And how much (ballpark figure) is this going to cost me on a bike that will be around 3000 dollars? Thanks!

Answer 1

well cant you just mail it ? i dont now

Answer 2

You're going to have to speak to a lawyer specializing in imports. You have to pay customs taxes and duties, then deal with the DMV. It's such a pain that unless this is a one-of-a-kind motorcycle, I'd leave it in India and search elsewhere.

Answer 3

You have to pay to have it shipped & pay import taxes.  Then, when you get it here, you may have to have modifications done so that it passes US safety & emmissions standards.  Then, you have to see if it is insurable.  Cars & motorcycles that were built in another country, not to US standards like the ones you would buy from a dealer, are considered "gray market" and usually cannot be insured by standard companies.  You may have to go to a specialty or surplus lines market & pay outrageous premiums.  If I were you, I would call around & find out if you can insure it BEFORE you go through the trouble & cost of shipping & modifying it.

You would only be able to register it once it is modified, passes DMV inspection & is insured.