Illinois Title, License Plate and Registration Information at Patrick BMW

A car title is an official document that proves ownership of a vehicle. It contains key details such as the vehicle's identification number (VIN), mileage at the time of sale, make and model, and the date of manufacture. This important document is necessary for registering your vehicle, transferring ownership, and securing financing.

If you want to trade in your vehicle but your lender still holds the title, don't worry! The dealership can handle the process for you. They will contact your lender to pay off the remaining loan balance and arrange the transfer of ownership. Typically, the bank will send a lien release letter confirming the loan is paid off.

If you live in a non-title-holding state and can't find your title or it's damaged, you can request a duplicate title from your local DMV or Secretary of State. We're also happy to assist you with this process. Keep in mind, obtaining a duplicate title may take a few weeks depending on your state's rules.

In most cases, once you've signed the title and registration application-and completed any required payoff requests-the title transfer process can begin. However, additional documents and signatures may be necessary in situations where:

• The vehicle has a co-buyer

• The title is in a business name

• The vehicle was owned by someone who is deceased

• Or other special ownership circumstances apply

Our team at Patrick BMW will walk you through exactly what's needed for your specific situation.

Important Notes:

• If you sell your car to a dealership, some states don't require the dealer to retitle the vehicle in their name immediately. In those cases, the vehicle may technically remain in your name until it is sold to a new private owner.

Title Delivery Based on Purchase Type:

• Cash Purchases: The dealer typically submits the title paperwork to your local DMV or state transportation/revenue agency. Once processed, your title will be mailed directly to you.

• Financed or Leased Purchases: The dealer sends the title paperwork to your DMV or state agency. If your state is title-holding, the title is sent to the bank/lienholder. If it's a non-title-holding state, the title is mailed directly to you.

When you purchase a vehicle from a dealership like Patrick BMW, most of the title and registration process is handled for you. Dealerships are authorized to manage essential state-related transactions, including:

• Tax collection

• License plate issuance

• Vehicle registration

After your purchase, you'll receive temporary registration paperwork and dealer-issued temporary tags so you can drive your vehicle right away while the permanent plates and registration are being processed.

A Temporary Registration Permit (TRP) allows you to legally drive your newly purchased vehicle while waiting for your permanent license plates. As a State of Illinois Secretary of State licensed dealer, Patrick BMW can issue:

• In-State TRPs - For Illinois residents waiting on their official license plates.

• Non-Resident Drive-Away Permits - For out-of-state buyers driving the vehicle to another state.

These permits are valid for up to 90 days and are issued after a valid registration application has been filed. TRPs are distributed through Secretary of State facilities, licensed dealers, currency exchanges, and remittance agents.

Important: Once you receive your permanent plates, be sure to remove the temporary permit from your vehicle.