[shifty]

In every state, the owner writes up a bill of sale when you purchase the vehicle. It's basically a note saying, "I, John Doe, am selling a 19xx Chevy C-20, VIN #xxxxxxx, to kylecoyote for $xxxxx". You both sign this document and I suggest having a witness or two (one of your family, one of his family) to sign off as well OR have a notary public present to notarize the bill of sale, as may be required in some states.

It is normally required to have a legitimate bill of sale in order to get a title. You will pay a fee to have the title processed, but in some states, a valid bill of sale is all you need to get a truck registered in that state.

It's wise not to skimp on the bill of sale. Make sure you have other people around, or, better yet, get the bill of sale notarized properly. BE CERTAIN THE VIN NUMBER IS ON THE BILL OF SALE!!! This way, when/if you choose to try to get the title, if the truck turns up stolen, you have a legal claim to have the owner repay you the money you spent on the truck. Match the VIN number to the cab and glovebox at minimum.

Be sure to keep all of your receipts for money invested into the truck until you get the title as well.

PS - I've never heard of a state that charges you back fees for not having a current title.