Titling a Vehicle

Seller (Transferor) Responsibilities

  1. Printed Name(s): All owners listed on the front of the title must legibly hand print their names exactly as they appear on the title in the designated seller area.
  2. Signature(s): All titled owners must sign in the designated Seller's Signature area.
    • Example: If the title says "James A Smith," the seller should sign as "James A Smith," not "Jim A Smith."

Buyer (Transferee) Responsibilities

  1. Printed Name(s): All buyers must legibly print their names as they want them to appear on the new title.
  2. Signature & Odometer Acknowledgment: The signature of at least one buyer must be entered to acknowledge the odometer reading (if required).
  3. Joint Tenancy: If there is more than one buyer and they wish to have the title issued in Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship (meaning the surviving owner automatically inherits the vehicle by providing a death certificate for the deceased individual), they must declare this intent by completing the acknowledgement form within the DR 2383 Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship Acknowledgment of Intent
  4. Buyer must transfer the title into their name within 60 days of the purchase date to avoid any late fees.

Sale Details

  • Date of Sale: The actual date of the sale or gift must be written in the designated area.
  • Purchase Price: Enter the final sale price. If the vehicle is being gifted (no payment exchanged) write "Gift" in the price field.
    • If there was a trade of vehicles, goods, or services a DR 2444 Statement of Fact will be required from the seller. This form will be used to explain the situation involving the trade. If there was any cash exchanged explain that on the Statement of Fact. If it was an even trade write “trade” or “even trade”.

Odometer Disclosure (Mileage)

Colorado has specific age requirements for when an odometer reading is mandatory:

  • Vehicles Model Year 2011 and Newer: An odometer disclosure is required until the vehicle reaches 20 years of age.
    • The reading (without decimals/tenths) must be entered on the title or a secure disclosure form.
    • The correct odometer indicator checkbox (e.g., Actual Mileage) must be marked.
    • Odometer Disclosure must be done on a secure odometer acknowledgement form.
  • Vehicles Model Year 2010 and Older (or 20 Years Old and Older): The odometer disclosure is generally exempt.
    • You may be able to exempt the mileage using the Department of Revenue Form DR 2444 Statement of Fact (for vehicles 20 years or older).

Note: The age requirement for disclosure changed in recent years. Always use the rule that a vehicle must have an odometer disclosure until it is 20 years old.

Critical Cautions

  • NO ALTERATIONS: Do not alter or erase information on the title. Alterations can void the document. If any error is made during the endorsement process, you must follow the correct procedure, which typically involves requesting a duplicate title. (link to Dupe Title Page)
  • Remove Plates: By Colorado law, sellers must retain their license plates before the buyer drives away. Plates are not transferred with the vehicle and are always linked to the owner.
  • No Pencil or erasable pens are allowed on any title work. This will instantly void the titling document as this will be considered a major alteration.

What is required to Title a Vehicle 

  • Proper Ownership Documents:

    • Can be one of the following - Colorado title, Manufacture Statement of Origin (MSO) or Out of State Title.

      • Vin Inspection is required for all out of state titles. Vin Inspections can be obtained at any local Law Enforcement, Colorado Licensed Dealership, or County Clerk’s Motor Vehicle Office upon availability or weather permitting.

    • Title must be in the sellers name and properly assigned to the purchaser.

    • If any brands are indicated on the face of the title (Rebuilt from Salvage, Salvage, etc.) a DR 2710 Branded Title Disclosure is required.  

  • Odometer Disclosure section must be completed. 

    • Separate Secure Odometer Disclosure can be used. 

    • Odometer disclosure does not have to be completed if the vehicle has been exempted and marked as such on the front of the title. 

  • Bill Of Sale required if applicable.

Type of Purchase

  • Financed Purchase: If you secured a loan for the vehicle, the dealership typically submits all necessary title and lien paperwork directly to your local County Motor Vehicle Office. Processing begins upon their receipt of the documentation.
  • Cash/Full Payment: If the vehicle was paid for in full, the dealership might either send the paperwork to your local County Motor Vehicle Office or provide it directly to you. If it's sent to you, you are responsible for submitting it for processing.

Documents Required to Title a Dealer Purchase

  • DR 2395 Application for Title
  • Colorado Title, Manufactures Statement/Certificate of Origin (MSO/MCO) or Out of State Title properly assigned by the dealer and assigned properly to the purchaser.
    • A Colorado VIN Inspection is required for all Out of State Title(s). However, if purchased from a Colorado Licensed Dealer, the inspection must be completed by the first Colorado dealership that assigned the vehicle.
  • Odometer disclosure must be completed on the Ownership document or can be completed on a separate secure odometer acknowledgement form.
  • DR 0024 Standard Sales Tax Receipt for Vehicle Sales if purchased from a Colorado Dealers.
  • A Purchase Order/Invoice is required if purchased from Out of State Dealer. 
  • A security Agreement is required if there is a lien/loan on the vehicle.
  • Secure and Verifiable Identification.

Monitoring Title Status

  • You are encouraged to check the status of your title online (https://mydmv.colorado.gov/_/). This helps ensure the documentation has been received and finalized before you attempt to register the vehicle.

Title Completion and Registration

  • Once the local Motor Vehicle office has processed the paperwork and finalized the title, they will typically send you an official notification, often referred to as a Title Complete Notice
  • Upon receiving this notice, you are cleared to complete your vehicle registration. You can choose to register your vehicle online or visit a local branch office.
  • If your online status check indicates the title is complete, but you have not yet received the official Title Complete Notice and you wish to register online, contact your local DMV. They can often provide the necessary letter ID or security code required to access the online registration system.

Apply for a duplicate/replacement title when your original title is: 

  • Illegible 

  • Lost 

  • Stolen 

  • Mutilated 

  • Altered 

Online Request

  • You can submit your request for a duplicate title through the state's official online services portal. (https://mydmv.colorado.gov/_/) Duplicate title page

In-Person

To apply in person at a Motor Vehicle office you will need to bring:

  • Secure and Verifiable Identification (SVID): A valid, acceptable form of ID (e.g., driver's license, passport) For a list of valid SVID’s please refer to DR 2841 on the states form page.
  • Proof of Vehicle Information: The current vehicle registration or other documentation verifying the vehicle details. (ex. Vin Number, Plate Configuration)
  • Fee: The required fee for the duplicate title ($8.20, subject to change)

By Mail

You can submit your request through the mail by including the following documents:

  • Duplicate Title Request Form (DR 2539A): This form must be accurately completed and signed by the owner, lienholder, or an authorized agent
    • Identification Information: The person signing the form must provide the identification details from their Secure and Verifiable ID on the application.
    • Letter of Authorization: If there is an agent transacting on behalf of a business a Letter of authorization is required.
  • Fee: The required payment for the duplicate title ($8.20, subject to change) usually payable by cash, check or money order to the Pueblo County Clerk.
  • Mail Paperwork to 215 W 10th St Pueblo CO 81003 and allow for 1-4 weeks to process the request once it has been delivered.

Special Procedures for Liens

  • Active Lien: If a lien is recorded on the vehicle (or was recorded within a specified timeframe, such as the last eight years), the replacement title will be mailed directly to the lienholder.
  • Lien Release Needed: If you have paid off a loan and require a clear title (without the lien recorded), you must provide a Lien Release Letter from the lender with your duplicate title application. In this case, the new, clear title will be mailed to the owner.
  • Lien Release Letter Requirements: A formal lien release document must be provided, usually on the company's official letterhead, and must include:
    • Vehicle Year, Make, and VIN.
    • Titled Owner's name(s).
    • The Agent's signature and date of release, attested to under penalty of perjury (a separate notarization is typically not required or accepted as a substitute)

To register your out-of-state vehicle in Pueblo County, you must visit the Pueblo County Clerk and Recorder’s office. Colorado law requires you to register your vehicle within 90 days of becoming a resident otherwise late fees start to accrue.

1. Required Documentation

You will need to bring the following documents to the Motor Vehicle office:

  • Proof of Ownership: Your original out-of-state title if it is paid off
    • If you are still making payments: Bring your current out-of-state registration (must not be more than 6 months expired) and the name/address of your lienholder.
  • Verification of Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): A physical inspection is required (Form DR 2698). You can get this from any of the following locations by taking the vehicle that needs inspected to:
    • The Pueblo County Clerk’s office (available at certain times/weather permitting).
    • A licensed Colorado auto dealer.
    • Local law enforcement.
  • Proof of Colorado Insurance: Out-of-state insurance is not accepted; you must have Colorado Insurance
  • Secure and Verifiable ID: A valid driver’s license or passport. (SEE SVID SECTION)
  • Proof of Residency: Form DR 2504 (Colorado Residency Establishment) and residency documentation like a utility bill or lease agreement.
  • Certified Weight Slip: Only required for motor homes, trailers over 2,000 lbs., or any vehicle if the weight is not listed on the title.

2. Fees and Taxes

Be prepared to pay several types of fees. Colorado's registration system is more expensive for newer, heavier vehicles because of the Specific Ownership Tax.

  • Sales/Use Tax: If you recently purchased the vehicle, you may owe Pueblo's combined tax (approx. 7.6%).
  • Registration Fees: Based on vehicle weight and age.
  • Late Fees: If you wait longer than 90 days after becoming a resident, a late fee of $25 per month (up to $100) will be charged.

When you finish paying off your vehicle loan, the lienholder/lender will send you a lien release letter. You have two choices for how to handle this:

Option 1: Keep Your Current Title (Optional)

You are not legally required to get a fresh title immediately. You can simply keep your current title along with the signed lien release (either completed on the title itself or as a separate letter from the bank). When you eventually decide to sell or trade in the vehicle, you can provide both of these documents to the new owner to prove the loan is satisfied.

Option 2: Apply for a "Clean" Title

If you prefer a new title that shows no active liens, you can apply for a clean version at a Motor Vehicle office. To do this, you must provide:

  • The Vehicle’s title
  • The Lien Release: This can be on the front of the original title with the lien section signed off or an official release letter from your lender.
  • Identification: A valid form of Secure and Verifiable Identification.
  • Processing Fee: A payment of $7.20 for the issuance of the new title. (Subject to change)

Tip for Colorado Residents

If your lender participated in the Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) program, they may notify the DMV electronically that your loan is paid. In many cases, the DMV will then automatically mail the paper title to you. It is worth checking your mail carefully before heading to an office to pay for a duplicate.

To update your vehicle's title and registration with a new name, you are required to visit one of our branch locations. Please note that the name on your registration documents can only be updated after the name on the vehicle's title has been officially changed.

When you visit the Motor Vehicle (MV) Division, please ensure you bring:

  • The vehicle's current title (If the vehicle is financed, please contact your lien holder/lender first to discuss their procedure for a name change).
  • Secure and Verifiable Identification DR 2841.
  • Official name change documentation (such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a court-issued legal name change order).
  • A payment of $7.20 for the new title processing fee.

To avoid problems when you sell your car, always ensure your vehicle title information is current.

How to Add a Name

  • Signatures Required:
    • The existing owner(s) must hand print and sign as the seller(s) in the designated Seller’s Section exactly as printed on the front of the title.
    • The existing owner(s) and the person you are adding must then sign as the buyer(s) in the Buyer’s Section on the back of the title.
  • Next Step: The person being added must visit one of our DMV locations, bringing the properly signed title and their Secure & Verifiable Identification.
  • Cost: $7.20 fee for the new title.

These steps depend on why the name is being removed:

  1. If an owner is voluntarily giving up their share:
  • The person giving up ownership must
    • Legibly print their name (exactly as it appears on the front of the title) in the sellers handprinted name section
    • Sign in the Seller's Signature Area on the back side of the title
  • The owner retaining the vehicle must then present the signed title at one of our DMV branch locations to apply for a new title listing only their name.

 2. If an owner is deceased:

  • Title filed with Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship (w/ JTWROS): The surviving owner must present the following documents at one of our Motor Vehicle branches for a new title. No signatures are needed.
    • The most recently issued title
    • The death certificate for the deceased individual
    • $7.20 for the title update
  • Title filed without Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship (w/o JTWROS):     The surviving owner must bring

If you are registering a vehicle with another person, it is highly recommended to establish Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship. Selecting this ownership type ensures that if one owner passes away, the vehicle's title transfers directly to the surviving owner without the need for lengthy probate court proceedings.

How to Apply

To set up this legal protection, all intended owners must fill out and sign Form DR 2383 the Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship form.

Important: Make sure to bring the completed form with you to the motor vehicle office when you go to title and register the car.

When co-owning a vehicle in Colorado, the wording on your title matters. Here is a quick comparison:

Ownership Wording

Legal Implication

Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship

Uses Form DR 2383. Avoids probate; ownership transfers automatically to the survivor.

Tenancy in Common

Does not use Form DR 2383. If one owner dies, their share of the car becomes part of their estate and may go to probate.

In Pueblo County, titling a manufactured home involves coordinating between two specific offices located in the same building: The Treasurer’s Office and the Clerk & Recorder’s Office.

As of July 1, 2025, Colorado has implemented new flat-rate recording fees, which simplifies the budgeting for this process.

Step 1: Get Tax Authentication

Before you can transfer the title, you must prove that all property taxes are current.

  • Where to go: Pueblo County Treasurer’s Office
  • Address: 215 W. 10th Street, Room 110, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Document needed: Ask for the Authentication of Paid Ad Valorem Taxes.
  • What to bring: A copy of the current title or the Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO).
  • Fee: $10.00 if property tax is already paid (payable in cash, cashier’s check, or money order as of late 2025).

Step 2: Submit the Titling & Recording Packet

Once you have the tax authentication, you will head to the Clerk & Recorder’s office. Manufactured home titles must be recorded in the county land records, even if they aren't "purged" to real estate.

  • Where to go: Pueblo County Clerk & Recorder (Recording Department)
  • Address: 215 W. 10th Street, Pueblo, CO 81003
  • Required Documents:
    1. Application for Title (DR 2395): Must include the width and length of the home.
    2. Ownership Document: The original MSO or the signed-over Title.
    3. Tax Authentication Form: The original you just received from the Treasurer.
    4. Manufactured Home Transfer Declaration: A form used by the Assessor to track the home's value.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

Colorado law (HB 24-1269) recently moved to a flat fee structure for recording documents.

  • Flat Recording Fee: $43.00 (Must be check or cash)
  • Title Fee: $7.20.
  • Sales Tax: Pueblo County and state sales tax may be due

In Colorado, "bonding for a title" is the process you follow when you own a vehicle/trailer but lack the proper ownership documents (like a missing or improperly assigned title). This allows you to get a Bonded Title, which is valid for three years.

Here is the step-by-step process to establish ownership through a surety bond:

1. Get a Certified VIN Inspection

Before anything else, you must have the vehicle/trailer inspected by a P.O.S.T. certified inspector (usually through the Colorado State Patrol).

  • Form: You will receive a DR 2704 (Certified VIN Inspection)
  • Cost: Approximately $54 (subject to change)
  • Validity: The inspection report is only valid for one year

2. Request a Title Record Search

You must find out if there are any previous owners or active liens on the vehicle/trailer.

  • Form: Complete DR 2489A (Motor Vehicle Requestor Release Affidavit of Intended Use).
  • The Search: This will show you the last registered owner and any lienholders. If the search comes back with a record, you must send a certified letter to the previous owner/lienholder asking them to release their interest. Once you mail this letter, you must keep the following for your DMV appointment:
    • A Copy of the Letter: Keep a physical copy of exactly what you sent.
    • The Certified Mail Receipt: This is the white and green slip the post office gives you when you pay for certified mail.
    • The Evidence of Delivery: If they sign for it: You will receive a Green Card (PS Form 3811) back in the mail.
      • If it is returned: Do not open the envelope. Keep the returned, sealed envelope as proof that you attempted contact but it was undeliverable.

3. Determine the Vehicle's Value

You need an official "appraisal" to determine how much the bond should be. You can do this in one of two ways:

  • Licensed Dealer: Get a written appraisal on the dealer’s letterhead (signed and dated).
  • Price Guidebooks: Use the current retail value from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) or NADA.
  • Note: If you use KBB or NADA, you must also fill out a DR 2444 (Statement of Fact) confirming you want to use that value.

4. Purchase the Surety Bond

The bond must be for twice (2x) the appraised value of the vehicle/trailer.

  • Where to get it: Purchase it from a commercial surety company.
  • Cost: For vehicles valued under $3,000 (requiring a $6,000 bond), the cost is usually a flat fee of $100. For more expensive cars/trailers, the price is typically 1% to 1.5% of the bond amount.
  • Duration: The bond must be active for three years.

5. Complete the Final Paperwork

Gather all your documents and fill out the "Bonding Packet" which includes:

6. Submit to the DMV

Take your Certified VIN Inspection, Record Search results (and proof of mailing), Appraisal, Surety Bond, and all completed forms to your County Motor Vehicle Office.

  • The Result: If approved, you will be issued a Colorado title branded as "Bonded."
  • After 3 Years: If no one claims ownership of the vehicle/trailer during the three-year bond period, the "Bonded" brand is removed, and you can apply for a standard clean title.

Important Shortcuts

Changing a Vehicle’s Title from Salvage to Rebuilt from Salvage

Pre-Inspection Checklist

Before you head to your appointment, ensure the following are complete:

  • Physical Repair: The vehicle must be fully functional and roadworthy (working lights, brakes, mirrors, wipers, and adequate tire tread).
  • The "Salvage Stamp": You must permanently stamp the words “REBUILT FROM SALVAGE” onto the vehicle.
    • Placement: Usually on the "B pillar" (the post where the driver's door latches).
    • Size: Letters must be at least 1/4 inch in height.
    • Note: This must be a physical stamp/die-cast, not a sticker or etching.
  • One-Day Temporary Permit: If you are driving the vehicle to the inspection site, visit a Motor Vehicle branch to get a temporary legal permit. You must provide a screenshot of your appointment details and come in the day of your appointment to obtain the temporary tag.

Document Checklist (What to Bring)

You will need to hand these to the Colorado State Patrol inspector:

  • Salvage Title: The original title in your name (or properly assigned to you).
  • Form DR 2424: The Salvage Title Statement of Fact. Fill out the top portion with the list of parts and repairs before you arrive.
  • Detailed Receipts: Original receipts/invoices for all major components and labor used during the rebuild.
  • Secure ID: A valid Colorado driver’s license or other state-approved identification.
  • Payment: Be prepared to pay the inspection fee (currently $54.00 as of July 2025). Many locations now accept credit cards, but check your specific station's rules.

Post-Inspection Steps

Once you pass the inspection:

  • Keep the Inspection Report: The officer will provide a DR 2704 (Certified VIN Inspection) form. This is valid for one year.
  • Visit the DMV: Take your paperwork to the county motor vehicle office to apply for your new "Rebuilt from Salvage" title.

Homemade Trailer 

  • A homemade trailer is self-assembled and does not have an identification number. A Colorado Trailer Assigned Identification Number will be issued to the trailer upon titling. 

To title and Register you’ll need: 

  • Colorado Certified VIN Inspection.

    • Must be obtained at Colorado State Patrol. 

  • Colorado Roadworthy Trailer Checklist completed and signed by a certified VIN Inspector.

    • Roadworthy Trailer checklist is on the lower portion of the DR 2697 Certificate of Equipment Compliance For Homemade and In Lieu of Bond Trailer. 

  • Certified Weight Slip (as determined by the inspector on the DR 2697).

    • Weight slips can be obtained at any certified weight scale. 

Kit Trailer 

  • Kit trailers are trailers that were purchased either assembled or unassembled from a retail sales business, which is not a licensed Colorado Motor Vehicle Dealer. Although the manufacturer may have included an Identification number, a trailer assigned id number is required for all kit trailers. 

  • Titling and Registering a Kit trailer

Junked Titles

Vehicles carrying a Junked status are permanently retired from road use.

  • These vehicles cannot be registered or plated, even if they are repaired.
  • A vehicle with a Junked title can never be legally operated on public highways or streets

Salvage Titles

A vehicle with a Salvage designation is officially deemed not fit for road use/roadworthy. You cannot obtain license plates or a registration for these vehicles until they have been restored and pass a formal inspection.

 

Rebuilt from Salvage Titles

A vehicle marked as Rebuilt from Salvage is defined as a vehicle that was previously salvaged and repaired to roadworthy status.

  • Buying: To register and plate a "Rebuilt" vehicle, you must submit Form DR2710 Branded Title Disclosure Statement, which must be signed by both the buyer and the seller. You will also need standard registration items.

Selling: It is the seller's responsibility to provide the completed Form DR2710 to the new owner at the time of sale.

For more specific information about titling, such as titling in the name of a trust, a title involving a deceased owner, or bonding for title, please contact our Motor Vehicle Department at 719-583-6507

Contact the Motor Vehicle Department

Clerk and Recorder Department

Pueblo County Historical Courthouse
215 W. 10 Street
Pueblo, CO 81003
United States

Telephone
719-583-6507
Fax
  • 719-583-4894