Tennessee Documentation and Registration

When purchasing a vehicle from one of our auctions in Tennessee, there are a couple of different documentation types you’ll encounter.

When researching a car, ALWAYS review the documentation type in the vehicle detail page. This ensures you're prepared for any additional steps required to obtain a title and register the vehicle.

Title

For vehicles with a Title, titling and registration of an Autura Marketplace purchase can work exactly as it would if the car was purchased from a dealer or a private party. The instructions are as follows: 

1. Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration (Form RV-F1317001).​
2. Gather Required Documents:
   1. Signed-over title from the seller.
   2. Proof of identification.
   3. Proof of Tennessee residency.
   4. Proof of insurance.​
3. Submit to County Clerk: Take the completed application and documents to your local county clerk’s office.​
4. Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary by county and vehicle type; check with your local clerk for specifics.​

For more details, visit the Titling a Vehicle page from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

Abandoned Vehicle Packet

Depending on the documentation inside the abandoned vehicle packet, there may be extra steps you need to take to obtain the title and register the vehicle. 

1. Review the packet thoroughly:
   1. Carefully read all the documents included in the packet to understand the specific requirements for transferring the title. 
   2. The packet will include a receipt or bill of sale which is required for the Department of Revenue to issue a new title to you.
2. Complete the necessary forms:
   1. Fill out any forms requested in the packet, providing accurate information about yourself and the vehicle. 
3. Gather required documentation:
   1. Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as the sales receipt, verification of ownership, and any other required forms. 
4. Submit the application to the Department of Revenue:
   1. Follow the instructions in the packet to submit your application and the required documents to the appropriate department. 
5. Pay any applicable fees.
6. Receive your new title:
   1. Once your application is processed, you will receive a new certificate of title for the vehicle, says Justia Law. 

Always refer to your local Department of Revenue for specific questions. More information can be found on abandoned vehicles here. 

Salvage Title

If you received a salvage title there are extra steps that need to be taken in order to register the vehicle. Vehicles with a salvage title cannot be operated on the road in Tennessee. If you wish to use the vehicle for travel, you will need to obtain a rebuilt title. Here are the steps:

1. Rebuild the Vehicle: Repair the vehicle to meet safety and operational standards.​
2. Document Repairs:
   1. Keep receipts for all parts used.
   2. Take before and after photographs of the vehicle.​
3. Submit for Inspection: 
   1. Mail the application, along with supporting documents, to the Tennessee Department of Revenue, Vehicle Services Division.​
4. Obtain Rebuilt Title: 
   1. After approval, you'll receive a rebuilt title indicating the vehicle has passed inspection.​
5. Register the Vehicle: 
   1. Take the rebuilt title to your local county clerk’s office to register the vehicle.​

For detailed steps, visit the Salvage, Non-repairable and Rebuilt Vehicles page from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.