When purchasing a vehicle from one of our auctions in Michigan, 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
If you received a clean Michigan title, registering the vehicle can be just as easy as it would be had you purchased the vehicle from a dealer or private party. Here the steps to register from the Michigan Department of State:
- Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (Form TR-11L).
- Gather Required Documents:
- Assigned vehicle title from the seller.
- Proof of Michigan No-Fault insurance.
- Valid identification.
- Submit to Secretary of State Office: Visit your local Secretary of State branch office with the completed application and documents.
- Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary; consult the Michigan SOS Title Transfer and Vehicle Registration page for specifics.
TR52
If you received a TR-52L form, there are extra steps you must take in order to obtain a title and register the vehicle. The abandoned vehicles page on the DOS website provides an in-depth overview. Here are instructions from the Department of State:
- Verify Documentation: Ensure the TR-52L is properly completed and signed by the appropriate authority.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (Form TR-11L).
- Submit to Secretary of State Office: Bring the TR-52L, completed application, and any additional required documents to your local Secretary of State branch office.
- Pay Applicable Fees: Fees may vary; refer to the Abandoned Vehicles page for more information.
Court Order
If the documentation type listed on the VDP is court order, there are extra steps you will need to take in order to obtain the title and register the vehicle. The Michigan Department of State website provides an in-depth overview and FAQ section.
- Obtain Court Order: Ensure you have the official court order awarding you ownership of the vehicle.
- Complete the Application: Fill out the Application for Michigan Vehicle Title (Form TR-11L).
- Submit to Secretary of State Office: Present the court order, completed application, and any additional required documents at your local Secretary of State branch office.
- Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary; consult the Michigan SOS Titles page for specifics.