If I have a clear title, but I know that a lien exists, is it still legal to sell the car? Does the DMV have the lien on record?
by 
mARY rATLIFF
ANSWERS: 3
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Actually, your (very good) question is tri-fold. [Before delving in here, I must make the assumption that we're talking about a "personal" lien, as I know of no commercial lender that would surrender the title without having been paid for the vehicle.] But in any case: First of all, the DMV does not concern itself with individuals' financial matters and therefore, it does not care about who or how much you owe them for your car. However, YOUR name must be on the registration in order to sell it, because you won't be able to transfer the title (sell it) otherwise. Lastly, if you are the REGISTERED owner and you DO have the legal title to the vehicle, then sure, you can sell it fair and square as far as the DMV is concerned... but whoever owes money for the car will most likely be sued in small claims / civil court by the lienholder for the remaining balance of the lien.
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You actually answered your own question. if you have knowledge that this vehicle has a lien, that how did the vehicle receive a clear title? you cannot sell a vehicle that has an existing lean, it is a felony in all states. Yes, the dmv is aware of the lien. once you sell this vehicle, the police and the lienholder will be notified. the police will make a report, the lienholder will repossess the vehicle and the district attorney will be notified for prosecution.
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You actually answered your own question. if you have knowledge that this vehicle has a lien, that how did the vehicle receive a clear title? you cannot sell a vehicle that has an existing lean, it is a felony in all states. Yes, the dmv is aware of the lien. once you sell this vehicle, the police and the lienholder will be notified. the police will make a report, the lienholder will repossess the vehicle and the district attorney will be notified for prosecution.
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