I lost the title to my car before I could transfer it. What do I do?

I live in Oregon and I went up to Washington to pick up a 1976 BMW 22, seemingly in pristine condition. Well when I turned up to buy the car the owner could not find the title (even though she told me she had it in hand the night before I drove up). I purchased the car and she agreed to mail the title to me. Well the car ended up breaking down on the way home (Yes I got ripped off, I’ve already gotten over being mad about it). By the time she had mailed me the title, I was broke, between the tow bill and the money I’m spending on parts for the engine which has to be rebuilt. So I finally have the money to afford to get the title transferred and I can’t find it. Rather than going to the DMV and waiting in line I figured I would ask if anyone on here knew what I need to do to fix this.. I know I probably have to get in contact with the seller which I should be able to do as I have her email address. Is there a form I should get from the DMV first? Is there any way I can deal with this on my own without involving her? (doubtful but ideal)

✅ Answers

? Best Answer

  • The only person that can apply for a duplicate title is the person that sold the car to you, which you do not legally own until the title is in your name. You don’t own the car, your name isn’t on the title, you can’t do anything on your own.
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