I can get a fixer-upper bike for cheap (clean vin number, I checked), owner has no title. Salvage title?

Question

This is Texas. I am wondering how to get a salvage title. Please don't tell me to call DMV or other government office. That's not an answer and not helpful at all. They are closed today, and anyone would know to call them for this info. I'm just wondering if anyone on here knows.

Thanks.

Answer 1

I know here in Vermont if the bike is over 10 years old you don't need the title to register it. But your can also look on your local DMV website to find out if you need the title. Or you can file for a lost title. Hope that helps.

Answer 2

The only way I can think of is processing a mechanics/storage lien against the bike.  This way you are laying legal claim to it and after the waiting period ens for notification of the owner on the title, you will get paper work from the state to obtain a salvage title.  

That is how it can be done in PA and NY.  The only problem I can see with Texas is they might issue a non-rebuildable salvage title which means it is only good for parts.  Hope this helps.

You cannot apply for a lost title unless you contact the registered owner on the title and ask him to apply for you and sign the replacement over to you.