What to Do When a Lien or Security
Interest Holder is Out-of-Business

If a lien or security interest holder is out-of-business, a motor vehicle owner is not required to submit a release to secure a new title; provided, they obtain and submit a letter from the appropriate regulatory agency, see below, that states the lien or security interest holder is no longer in business or is unlicensed.

When the letter states that the lien or security interest holder is unlicensed rather than no longer in business, a letter must be mailed registered mail, return receipt requested, to the lien or security interest holder at their last known address shown on this Department's title records. The returned undeliverable unopened letter must be submitted with the U.S. Postal Authority's green registered mail card intact along with the letter from the regulatory authority stating the company is unlicensed, and the other documents and fees required for title issuance.

This procedure does not include individuals who are lien or security interest holders, companies who have merged with other companies and are operating under a different name, or a company not regulated by a state agency.

The name and address of the majority of regulatory authorities of lending institutions used by this state include:

The above documents must accompany any application for a new or replacement Georgia certificate of title, required supporting documents and fees. Click here to return to the Title Index. From the Title Index, click on the type of title transaction (i.e. New Vehicle; Vehicle Currently Titled in Georgia, etc.) to view the documents and/or fees needed to obtain a Georgia title.