National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS)

The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) advocates uniform standards in registration, titling and motor carrier programs through the use of NMVTIS. This is a system that allows participating states to instantly and reliably verify the information on title issuances with the electronic data from the state that issued the title. NMVTIS is designed to protect consumers from fraud, unsafe vehicles and to keep stolen vehicles from being resold.

Background

The Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 was enacted to deter trafficking in stolen vehicles by strengthening law enforcement against auto theft (Title I), combating automobile title fraud (Title II), preventing “chop shop” related thefts (Title III), and inspecting exports for stolen vehicles (Title IV).

Title II of the Act required the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to implement a National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). The Act specifies that the information within NMVTIS shall be available to jurisdictions; federal, state and local law enforcement officials; insurance carriers; and other prospective purchasers (e.g., individuals, auction companies, and used car dealers).

The Anti Car Theft Improvements Act of 1996 was signed into law on July 2, 1996. It amends the Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 to give the Department of Justice the responsibility for the information system.

Additional Resources:

• Buying or Selling a Vehicle?