When i did it here in ohio, I spoke with 3 title offices and got 3 different answers as to what I HAD to do to get a title, 2 of which turned out to be options( I made the second call because the first lady told me I HAD to find the previous title to get a title trasfer). The first option was a salvage title situation with inspections ect.... However the second,(which I have employed twice now), required that I do an online title search for the vehicle(which I did not have to prove?!), write up an affidavit explaining how I obtained, and what i intend to do with the bike(maybe, ride- it big bro), have my notary friend notorize it, take it to my courthouse, pay my (100 large) have the judge sign it, then take it to the title agengy, pick up my new clean ohio title, walk next door to the licence agency, pay another $50, and walk out with historical plates that I don't have to renew for 48 years.... I has all worked out well,(exept for the $150.. twice
It may be worth a few calls, this type of thing has happend to me again since, with a differnt govt buracracy, and different subject...