The bill amends and reenacts specific sections of the North Dakota Century Code regarding the application process for obtaining a new vehicle certificate of title and the conditions under which a new title may be issued. Key changes include the requirement for applicants to provide the model year of the vehicle if known, and the department's authority to assign a vehicle identification number if one is not already assigned or cannot be located. Additionally, the bill mandates that applicants must provide a photo of the vehicle identification number before a title can be issued, and it clarifies the information required from the applicant, including lienholder details and odometer disclosure.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the procedures for transferees who are unable to obtain a properly assigned certificate of title. It specifies that satisfactory proof of ownership must be provided, with different requirements based on the transferee's status (e.g., insurer, tax-exempt organization, licensed dealer, or individual). Notably, for vehicles over forty years old, proof of ownership can be established through a bill of sale or an affidavit of ownership, and the department may only request an appraisal if no bill of sale is presented. The bill also allows for the transfer of a vehicle under certain conditions, regardless of its state, if ownership can be verified.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 39-04-36, 39-05-20
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Thomas: 39-05-05, 39-05-20
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 39-05-05, 39-05-20
Enrollment: 39-05-05, 39-05-20