How much does a certificate of title bond cost in Tennessee?
Tennessee title bonds up to $10,000 cost just $100—no underwriting required. Bond amounts between $10,000 and $25,000 will also be issued instantly and cost $10 for every $1,000 of coverage. Bond amounts exceeding $25,000 are subject to underwriting consideration.
The required bond amount must be equal to the appraised value of the vehicle multiplied by 1.5. Contact the Vehicle Services Section of the Department of Revenue and provide your vehicle identification number, or VIN, to find out your exact bond amount before purchasing your bond.
| Bond Type | Bond Amount | Cost* | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $1-$10,000 Certificate of Title Bond | $1-$10,000 | $100 | GET A QUOTE |
| $10,001-$25,000 Certificate of Title Bond | $10,001-$25,000 | $100+ | GET A QUOTE |
| $25,001+ Certificate of Title Bond | $25,001+ | Subject to Underwriting | GET A QUOTE |
Why do I need a Tennessee bonded title?
The Tennessee Department of Revenue requires all owners of vehicles without certificates of title within the state to provide a surety bond prior to getting a bonded title. Tennessee certificate of title bonds are put in place to protect the state and general public from financial loss that occurs as a result of the issuance of a new certificate of title for the vehicle in question. By posting this bond, the principal (vehicle owner) takes full responsibility for these damages if they do occur.
Please note this bond is required for a vehicle title to be issued. If you are planning to sell cars and other vehicles, a Tennessee motor vehicle dealer bond is required.
What are the details of TN title bonds?
If you own a vehicle in Tennessee that is unregistered and needs a certificate of title, the Department of Revenue mandates that you secure a surety bond. The bond remains valid for 3 years from the effective date. If the vehicle is no longer registered with the state before the 3 years are up, then the owner can return the certificate of title to the state if there are no pending claims.
Customers Nationwide
How to get a bonded title in Tennessee
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Review the requirements to see if you are eligible for a bonded title. Visit the TN Department of Revenue to ensure that you need a bonded title.
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Complete your surety bond application.
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Submit your application including a bill of sale from the last registered owner, and information regarding whether the bond is personal or corporate, to:
Tennessee Department of Revenue
Special Investigations (ATTN: Surety Bonds)
Andrew Jackson Building 11th Floor
500 Deaderick Street, Suite 11.125
Nashville, Tennessee 37242 -
Determine your bond amount. The state will value your vehicle and your bond amount will be one and a half times the value of the vehicle.
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Purchase your Tennessee certificate of title bond in the amount determined.
Additional Resources
Tennessee Certificate of Title Bond Form
Tennessee Department of Revenue: Vehicle Title & Registration Forms
Tennessee Code: Title 55, Chapter 3, Section 103