Do you get the title to your car if have a loan on it?

When you purchase a vehicle with a loan, the lender (usually a bank, credit union, or other financial institution) holds the title to the car until the loan is paid off in full. This is a form of collateral to protect the lender's investment - if you fail to make the payments, the lender can repossess the car.

However, once you've completed the payment obligations as outlined in the loan agreement, the title to the car will be transferred to your name. This is typically done through a process called a "lien release," where the lender sends documentation to the local department of motor vehicles (DMV) releasing their interest in the vehicle. The DMV then issues a new title, with you as the registered owner.

The time it takes for you to receive the title of your car after paying off the loan may vary depending on the state you live in and the procedures of the local DMV. It's advisable to contact your lender and the DMV for specific details and timelines related to the lien release and title transfer process.