You ever open your mail and see something from the DMV and think
“Did I forget something”
“Why are they auditing me”
“Is my car even mine anymore”
Yep
Been there
Sweaty palms
Queueing at the DMV with no idea what to say
So here’s exactly how to handle a DMV audit or title dispute
In plain English
Step by step
No legal mumbo jumbo
I’m Myriam
Makeup artist
Car owner
And unofficial queen of fixing DMV disasters after learning the hard way
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore This
✅ An audit can lead to fines if you don’t respond
✅ A title dispute can stop you selling or even driving your car
✅ But neither one is the end of the world if you stay calm and act fast
What’s a DMV Audit Anyway?
A DMV audit usually means
✅ They want to check the paperwork on a vehicle you sold bought or registered
✅ Often about sales tax or proof of ownership
✅ Sometimes random — sometimes triggered if something looks wrong
If you’re a dealer it can mean a full review of your records
If you’re a private owner it’s usually just about one car
What’s a Title Dispute?
A title dispute happens when
✅ Two people claim ownership of the same car
✅ The title has errors
✅ The lien (loan) wasn’t properly cleared
✅ Or it’s been reported stolen and flagged
Until it’s fixed — you can’t legally sell or transfer the car
How to Handle a DMV Audit
Here’s how I got through mine without crying (much)
Step 1: Read The Notice Carefully
✅ Check the date and deadline to respond
✅ See exactly what they’re asking for — sales receipts proof of insurance mileage etc.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
✅ Title
✅ Bill of sale
✅ Registration
✅ Insurance proof
✅ Any receipts or loan payoff letters
Put it all in one folder — makes you look organised and saves time
Step 3: Contact The DMV
✅ If you don’t understand the letter — call them
✅ Stay calm
✅ Ask what they need and if you can email or upload docs instead of queueing in person
Step 4: Respond On Time
✅ Missing the deadline can lead to penalties
✅ Even if you don’t have all the paperwork — tell them what you do have and ask for more time if needed
How to Fix a Title Dispute
If you’re stuck in a title mess
Here’s how I untangled mine
Step 1: Find Out What’s Wrong
✅ Ask the DMV to explain the issue
✅ Is it a lien
✅ A duplicate title
✅ Someone else’s name on it
✅ Stolen flag
Step 2: Prove You’re The Owner
✅ Show your bill of sale
✅ Cancelled cheque or payment record
✅ Previous title or registration
✅ If there’s a lien, contact the lender for a release letter
Step 3: Correct The Records
✅ If it’s a clerical error — DMV will fix it
✅ If a lien is still showing — you or the lender need to file a release
✅ If someone else claims it — you may need a hearing or to file a bond title
My Own DMV Disaster
Sold my old car
Thought I did everything right
Six months later got audited because the buyer never registered it and kept getting parking tickets
Had to prove I sold it by showing the bill of sale and release of liability form
Sorted in a week — but only because I kept my paperwork
Lesson: keep copies of everything
Quick Tips To Save Your Sanity
☑ Never throw away car paperwork
☑ Always file a release of liability when you sell
☑ Double–check titles for errors before you sign
☑ Respond to DMV letters right away
☑ Be polite — but don’t be afraid to ask questions
FAQs About How to Handle a DMV Audit or Title Dispute
Will I get fined if I fail an audit?
Maybe — but if you cooperate and fix mistakes quickly you can often avoid or reduce penalties.
How long does it take to fix a title dispute?
Depends — a simple correction can take a day, a big dispute could take weeks or a hearing.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not usually — but if it’s serious or someone’s suing you over the car, it helps.
Can I still drive the car during a dispute?
Usually yes — but you can’t sell or transfer it until it’s cleared.
What if the DMV made the mistake?
They’ll usually fix it for free once you show proof.
Final Word On How to Handle a DMV Audit or Title Dispute
If you’re worrying about how to handle a DMV audit or title dispute
Here’s my advice:
✅ Stay calm
✅ Get your papers together
✅ Respond quickly
✅ And keep everything in writing just in case
You’ve got this
It’s annoying but fixable
