Overview
In most cases, you can sell without having the paper title in hand — but there are important exceptions depending on your situation. Dealers in our network can work directly with the DMV or your lender to secure the title, but certain cases require you to wait.
Key points
Financed car (loan still active): ✅ Yes, the dealer will pay off your loan and get the title from your bank.
Just paid off your loan (title not yet received): ❌ No — you must wait until the DMV issues and mails your new title before a dealer can purchase it.
Car paid in cash, but you lost your title (no duplicate requested yet): ✅ Yes, you can still sell. The dealer can request a duplicate during the transaction.
Car paid in cash, duplicate title already requested but not yet received: ❌ No — you’re in limbo. No dealer or private buyer can buy the car until the DMV reissues the duplicate.
Support
💡 If you’re unsure about your title status, a Bidbus rep is always available by text or email to guide you. Make sure you save our contact.
In short
Active loan? Dealer pays it off.
Just paid off loan but no title yet? You must wait.
Lost title with no duplicate requested? Still sellable.
Duplicate pending? Must wait for DMV.