Existing Lien Payoff Is Still Clearing
If the dealer took your car in on trade or bought it at auction, they must pay off the previous lender and wait for a lien release before the state will issue a clear title. Banks typically take 7‑14 business days to send the release.

Waiting for the Paper Title from the State DMV
Many states now hold titles electronically (ELT). The dealer submits an electronic release request, then waits for the motor‑vehicle agency to print and mail a paper title—often 5‑15 business days.
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Out‑of‑State Title Transfer
If the vehicle was titled in a different state, the dealer must mail paperwork to that state’s DMV, then retitle it in your state before assigning it to you. This can add 2–4 weeks.
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Floorplan (Inventory) Financing Still on the Vehicle
Dealers use short‑term “floorplan” loans to buy inventory. The lender won’t release the title until the floorplan balance is paid, which usually happens only after your payment clears.
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Title Corrections or Reassignment Errors
Any misspelling, mileage discrepancy, or missing signature means the DMV kicks the title back for correction, resetting the clock.
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Duplicate or Lost Title Application
If the original title was lost, the dealer must request a duplicate. Processing times vary by state (7–30 days).
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Vehicle Still Under Auction Arbitration
Dealers sometimes hold titles while an auction dispute (e.g., undisclosed damage) is resolved.
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Pending Odometer or Emissions Inspection
Certain states require a recent inspection certificate to accompany the title transfer.
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Backlog at the Dealer’s “Tag & Title” Service
Some dealerships batch title work once a week, or outsource to a runner who makes DMV trips on a fixed schedule.
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Post‑Sale “Spot Delivery” or Conditional Financing
If the sale relied on you securing financing, the dealer may wait for final loan approval before releasing the title.