Understanding Mechanic’s Lien Titles for Vehicles: What You Need to Know
Download MP3 Overview: Learn how to obtain a title for a vehicle, whether you've done work on it or if it's been abandoned on your property, even if you don't have a bill of sale or transfer form.
Two Options for Title Acquisition:
- Mechanics Lien: If you're a licensed automotive facility, you can file for a mechanics lien using your automotive, repair, or dealer license.
- Civil Lien: If you're a civilian or private individual, you can file a civil lien with the court to claim ownership.
What’s the Difference Between a Mechanics Lien and a Civil Lien?
- Mechanics Lien: Available to licensed automotive businesses (repair shops, dealerships, body shops). You send notices to the vehicle owner, the DMV, and file with the licensing authority. Once processed, you receive the title.
- Civil Lien: If you’re not licensed, you can file a petition with the county clerk or court to request ownership of the vehicle. A magistrate or clerk can issue a judgment, which you can use to request the title from the DMV.
Steps for Filing a Civil Lien:
- Obtain the VIN number of the vehicle.
- Have your driver’s license and identity documents ready.
- File a petition or complaint with the county clerk or court to request a judgment declaring you as the owner.
- The DMV will issue the title once you present the judgment from the court.
What You’ll Need:
- VIN number of the vehicle.
- Proof of identity (Driver’s License).
- Petition or complaint filed with the county clerk or court.
Important Notes:
- You don’t need a title bond to start the civil lien process.
- This process is useful if you’ve been getting the runaround from the DMV or title division.
- Civil liens can also override financial institution loans, such as car loans from banks like Wells Fargo.
Why Choose a Civil Lien?:
- Sometimes a civil lien can be quicker and more direct than a mechanics lien.
- Some automotive businesses skip the mechanics lien and go straight for the civil lien for a faster resolution.
For More Information:
- Visit leantitles.com for step-by-step instructions on both the mechanics lien and civil lien processes.
- Have questions? Contact our help desk or leave a comment below.
