Illinois Bonded Title (Certificate of Title Bond)

An Illinois bonded title lets you register and title a vehicle when ownership evidence is missing or incomplete. You purchase a certificate of title bond—typically set at 1.5× the vehicle’s appraised value—to protect prior owners and lenders. You file the bond with the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) as part of the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) application (VSD 190). After the statutory period, the bonded title can convert to a standard title if no valid claims arise.

A certificate of title bond is a type of surety bond that supports a provisional title when the normal proof of ownership is unavailable. In Illinois, it’s often called an “Illinois bonded title.” The bond does not insure the vehicle; instead, it protects prior owners, lienholders, and the state against financial loss if someone proves a superior ownership claim. You remain responsible for the bond’s obligations throughout the bond term tied to the provisional title. 

Two numbers matter: the bond amount and your premium. By rule, Illinois typically sets the bond amount at 1.5× the vehicle’s appraised value (see Illinois Admin. Code 92 §1010.190). Your out-of-pocket premium is usually 1–5% of that bond amount, based on credit and underwriting. 

Example: on a $9,000 bond amount, premiums may run $90–$450; on a $30,000 bond amount, premiums may run $300–$1,500. Premiums are paid to activate the bond you’ll file with SOS. 

Start by confirming you qualify for a provisional title under the Illinois Vehicle Code. Then follow a simple sequence to avoid delays. 

• Get an appraisal. An appraisal establishes value so the bond amount can be set at 1.5×. 
• Apply for the bond. Complete an online application for fast, credit-based underwriting.
• File with SOS. Submit your bond with the ERT application VSD 190 and required documents listed on the SOS forms page. 
• Keep records. Retain your bond and title paperwork until the bonded title can convert to a standard title. 

Yes—flexible, credit-based underwriting can make approval accessible even with challenged credit. Expect transparent pricing aligned to risk, with options to verify income or provide additional context if needed. Submitting a complete application helps streamline approvals and keep costs in the lower end of the 1–5% range. If you’re unsure where to start, browse Illinois surety bonds for state-specific guidance before beginning the online quote. 

Who needs an Illinois bonded title? 

You typically need a bonded title when you cannot provide sufficient ownership proof—lost title, incomplete chain of assignments, or missing lien releases—but still meet the criteria for a provisional title under the Vehicle Code. The bond allows SOS to issue a provisional title while protecting prior owners and lienholders. If no valid competing claim emerges during the bond term, the provisional status can end and you may obtain a standard title. 

How is the bond amount set in Illinois?

Illinois generally sets the bond amount at 1.5× the appraised value of the vehicle, which is why a written appraisal is required. This multiplier appears in Illinois Admin. Code 92 §1010.190. Remember, the bond amount is not the price you pay. Your price is the premium—usually 1–5% of the bond amount—determined through credit-based underwriting. Keep your appraisal with your records; SOS may request it with your bonded title packet. 

How long does a bonded title last, and when can I get a regular title? 

The bonded title accompanies a provisional period defined in the Vehicle Code. If no valid claim surfaces during that statutory term, the bonded title can convert to a standard title, removing the provisional status. If your bond form requires continuation for any reason, expect simple renewal notices to help maintain continuous coverage until conversion. Keep your mailing address current with the surety and SOS so you receive all notifications on time. 

How do I apply for an Illinois bonded title? 

Gather ownership evidence and obtain an appraisal to set the bond amount. Secure your bond through an online application, then file the bond with SOS as part of the ERT VSD 190 packet listed on the SOS forms page. Follow any additional instructions for a provisional certificate under 625 ILCS 5/3-109. Keep copies of all submissions and approvals in case questions arise before your title converts.

Illinois Secretary of State. (n.d.). Title and registration publications and forms.
https://www.ilsos.gov/publications/motorist/titlereg.html 

Illinois Compiled Statutes, 625 ILCS 5/3-109 (Provisional certificate of title).
https://www.ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/ilcs/documents/062500050K3-109.htm 

Illinois Administrative Code, tit. 92, § 1010.190 (Surety bond requirements). Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute.
https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-92-SS-1010.190 

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Illinois surety bonds.
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/bonds-by-state/illinois 

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). What is a surety bond?
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/what-is-a-surety-bond 

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Surety bond quote.
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/surety-bond-quote 

Lance Surety Bonds. (n.d.). Surety bond FAQs. 
https://www.lancesuretybonds.com/learn/faqs