P.R. Laws tit. 9, § 5005

2019-02-20 00:00:00+00
§ 5005. Proof of title of motor vehicles

(a) The following documents shall constitute proof of title of vehicles or new motor vehicles:

(1) Vendor’s bill of sale attested before a notary public, if the transaction was executed outside of Puerto Rico.

(2) Manufacturer’s statement of origin issued by the manufacturer.

(3) Any other document that, in the judgment of the Secretary, is sufficient to prove title to the vehicle or motor vehicle, as established by regulations.

(b) The following documents shall constitute proof of title of used vehicles:

(1) Proof of title, for those cases in which the vehicle or motor vehicle comes from a state or country that uses the title system. Said document must show on its face, the name of the applicant, as well as an indication as to whether the title was transferred and whether a lien existed or exists. In case of a lien, it must appear as cancelled, or, in its defect, shall include a certification from the entity that financed the purchase of the vehicle or motor vehicle, establishing his/her authority for the vehicle or motor vehicle to be transferred to Puerto Rico. In the event of not having title, an application must be filed before the Court of First Instance for the authorization of the registration with notice to the Office of the Prosecutor and the Department. The petitioner shall pay the corresponding fees to the Secretary for the registration of the lien for said financing, as subsequently provided in this chapter.

(2) Registration document with the Seal of the State, and the bill of sale authenticated before a notary, whose signature is verified, for those cases in which the vehicle originates from a State or country that does not use the system of certificates of title.

(3) Document of public auction that duly identifies the authorized bidder.

(4) Certificate of release.

(5) Insurance company’s bill of sale.

(6) Any other document that, in the judgment of the Secretary, is sufficient to prove title to the vehicle or motor vehicle, as established through regulations.

History —Jan. 7, 2000, No. 22, § 2.04; June 3, 2004, No. 132, § 2, eff. 8 months after June 3, 2004.