Camper Titles In Colorado: What's The Law?

If you're buying a camper in Colorado, it's important to know the procedures and requirements for obtaining a title, especially if the camper doesn't come with one. Having a title is crucial as it serves as proof of ownership, enables registration for a license plate, and is often required for insurance. While the process may vary slightly depending on the state, there are some general steps and considerations to keep in mind. In most cases, you will need to gather specific documents, fill out a title application form, and submit the necessary paperwork to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

What documents do you need to get a camper title in Colorado?

To get a camper title in Colorado, you will need to visit your county motor vehicle office and submit the following documents:

• Proof of Insurance (if you are registering the vehicle at the same time)
• Secure and Verifiable Identification
• The current title or other ownership documents properly endorsed by the previous owner
• Odometer disclosure complete
• A bill of sale for sales tax purposes
• If a lien is to be recorded, an acceptable mortgage document (security agreement) must be provided. This must be an original, carbon copy, or a certified copy and must contain the vehicle description (year, make, vehicle identification number or VIN, lienholder's name and address, lien amount, and owner's signature)
• If there is more than one vehicle owner, all owners are required to declare their intent to have the Certificate of Title issued in Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship. This can be done by completing the Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship Acknowledgement of Intent form located within the Title and/or Registration Application.
• If the vehicle was previously titled in another state, a Verification of Vehicle Identification Number form (DR 2698) is required. This can be completed by contacting one of the following:
• A Colorado law enforcement agency
• A licensed Colorado motor vehicle dealer
• A licensed Colorado emissions testing station
• Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (if the vehicle is being titled for the first time)
• Valid registration or title along with a weight slip
• If there is a lien, you will need to go to the county motor vehicle office in the county where the vehicle is located. Lien extensions are processed at the local county clerk's office.

It is important to note that you will need to pay vehicle title fees, registration fees, and any applicable sales tax. Additionally, if your camper does not have a title, you may need to obtain a bill of sale, certificate of inspection, and/or proof of lien status.

What is the process of obtaining a camper title in Colorado?

The process of obtaining a camper title in Colorado is relatively straightforward, but it may vary depending on whether the camper was purchased from a dealer or a private seller, its weight, and its origin. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a camper title in Colorado:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

First, you will need to gather all the necessary documents. These typically include:

• A secure and verifiable ID.
• The original title, bill of sale, or certificate of origin from the manufacturer.
• Certificate of Inspection from the Department of Transportation (DOT) or an RV dealership.
• Lien status document (if applicable).
• Proof of insurance (if registering the camper at the same time).
• A completed title application form, which can be downloaded from the Colorado DMV website or obtained from your local DMV office.

Step 2: Submit Documents and Pay Fees

Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit them to your local county motor vehicle office in Colorado. Along with the documents, you will need to pay the vehicle title fees, registration fees, and any applicable sales tax. The registration fee varies depending on the value of the camper.

Step 3: Wait for Processing and Receive Title

After submitting your documents and paying the fees, the Colorado Department of Revenue will process your application. The processing time may vary, but it typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks for the title to be mailed to you. If there is a lien on the camper, the title will be mailed to the lienholder.

Additional Considerations:

• If the camper was previously titled in another state, you will need to complete a Verification of Vehicle Identification Number form (DR 2698) through a Colorado law enforcement agency, a licensed Colorado motor vehicle dealer, or a licensed Colorado emissions testing station.
• If the camper is a self-assembled trailer without a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and weighing less than 2000 pounds, you will need to apply for a Colorado trailer identification number and submit additional documentation, including a completed DR 2704 Colorado Certified VIN Inspection and a DR2697 form - Certification of Equipment Compliance for Homemade and In Lieu of Bond Trailers.
• For trailers weighing over 2000 pounds, bonding is required.
• If you built your own camper or RV, you may need to apply for a scrap title, which is for vehicles that did not previously exist, and it will allow you to create a VIN for your camper.

What happens if you don't have a camper title in Colorado?

If you don't have a camper title in Colorado, it can impact your ability to prove ownership of the camper, register it for a license plate, and get insurance. While it is possible to buy a camper without a title, it is risky and can lead to legal and liability issues.

If you are unable to provide proof of ownership, the authorities may confiscate the camper, as it could be considered stolen. Additionally, without a valid registration and license plate, you may face fines and penalties if pulled over. Furthermore, insurance companies may require verification of ownership through the title before providing coverage.

To obtain a title for a camper without one in Colorado, you will need to follow a similar process as obtaining a car title. This typically involves gathering the necessary documents, such as a bill of sale, certificate of inspection, and proof of lien status, and submitting them to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The specific requirements and procedures may vary, so it is recommended to check with the local DMV office or website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In some cases, you may need to obtain a "scrap title" or "built-by-owner" title if the camper was homemade or previously untitled. This process may include inspections by the DMV or the Department of Transportation (DOT) to ensure the camper is roadworthy and compliant with safety standards.

It is important to note that the consequences of not having a camper title can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the state in which you reside. While some states may have more lenient requirements, it is generally advisable to obtain a title for your camper to avoid any legal issues and ensure a smooth ownership experience.

What are the risks of buying a camper without a title in Colorado?

When buying a camper without a title in Colorado, there are several risks that you should be aware of. Firstly, without a title, you cannot obtain proof of ownership, which means that you may not be able to register for a license plate or get insurance for your camper. This could lead to legal troubles and fines if you are pulled over by law enforcement.

Secondly, there is a risk that the camper could be stolen property. If the authorities confiscate your camper on suspicion of it being stolen, you could lose the camper and any money you invested in it. You may also face legal consequences, including arrest and prison time, if you are found to be in possession of stolen goods.

Thirdly, without a title, it can be challenging to establish the true ownership of the camper. If the previous owner reports the camper as stolen or damaged, you may not be recognized as the new owner and could face financial losses. Additionally, buyers will be wary of purchasing a camper without a title, which could result in a lower selling price or difficulty in finding a buyer.

Furthermore, obtaining a title for a camper without one can be a complicated and time-consuming process. It requires gathering various documents, such as a bill of sale, certificate of inspection, proof of lien status, and a valid driver's license. You may also need to get your camper inspected by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and verified by the sheriff's office to ensure it is not stolen and meets safety requirements. This process can be costly and may involve multiple trips to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Lastly, there is a risk of encountering legal and liability issues if you do not obtain a new title for the camper. It is essential to have legal proof of ownership to avoid any future disputes or complications.

How do you get a bill of sale for a camper in Colorado?

A bill of sale is a legal document that records the transfer of ownership of a camper from a seller to a buyer. In Colorado, a bill of sale is not a legal requirement to buy or sell a camper. However, it is a good idea for buyers and sellers to create one. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a bill of sale for a camper in Colorado:

Step 1: Prepare the Camper for Sale

Get your camper cleaned, repaired, and looking its best before taking pictures for advertising. Consider hiring a professional cleaner or investing in some cleaning supplies to help make the camper appear as good as possible. After this, take photos with a professional camera or a high-end smartphone to capture the interior and exterior.

Step 2: Decide How to Sell

You can sell your camper to a dealer, advertise it online, use a window sign in a high-traffic area, or use a combination of these methods. Advertising can be expensive, but there are cheap ways to reach the right buyers.

Step 3: Negotiate and Gather Paperwork

When a potential buyer comes along, they will ask about the condition of the camper, whether any repairs are needed, and may request an inspection from a third-party mechanic. Once a purchase price and terms are coordinated, you can move on to the bill of sale.

Step 4: Complete the Transaction

When the parties have agreed in principle to a deal, it is time to facilitate the transaction. The buyer will need to bring funds, while the seller will need to provide a certificate of title and current or past registration documents. Common methods of payment include cash, check, certified check, cashier’s check, money order, or other verified payment methods such as a wire transfer.

Step 5: Sign the Bill of Sale

After the parties have brought their respective items, they should sign the bill of sale. It is recommended that each party takes a copy or a photo of the other's driver's license to ensure the individuals are who they claim to be. The bill of sale should include the following information:

• The price and date of the sale
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Personal and contact information of the buyer and seller
• Camper's previous tax status
• Whether the buyer needs a vehicle inspection and if a security deposit has been made
• Signatures of the buyer and seller, preferably in the presence of a notary public or third-party witnesses

It is important to note that while a bill of sale is not required by law in Colorado, it is a useful document for proving the transfer of ownership, especially if there is no title available or if the camper is purchased from another state. Additionally, a bill of sale is helpful for record-keeping, tax purposes, and reselling the camper in the future.

Frequently asked questions