I think Inky is not incorrect (how's that for a politician's answer?).
That said, if you want to play by the rules, don't be afraid to check with your state DMV. That is, don't be afraid to check with them if you call from a pay phone and don't give your name. I was surprised to learn that in my state, I can get a new title issued fairly easily.
Our '59 did not come with a title and the p.o. never had a title. I just need to submit the oldest plates on the truck or the VIN. The state will run a check to see if it was previously titled, then contact the last recorded owner (if possible) and verify the truck isn't stolen. I imagine somebody could claim it was, but highlly unlikely, especially up here in squaresville. Once that's done, (cost is about $10) your new title is issued.
On the other hand, I'm not kidding about being careful not to give too much information. One of my employees once called the local EPA office to MAKE SURE we were following environmental regulations. She did not give her name, but the town is small enough that it didn't take much for the EPA jerk to put 2+2 together. We got a surprise inspection the next week.
Fortunately, we passed with flying colors, but what upset me was the fact that we were trying very, very hard to be responsible and do the RIGHT thing! For that, we got slapped around by a desk jockey.
Good luck with your truck,
