Legislation was passed this year to simplify the process of filing a Motor Vehicle Temporary Lien (MVTL) with the Secretary of State. Effective Nov. 1, it is longer necessary to attach a notarized security agreement or bill of sale to an MVTL application in order for it to be filed with the Secretary of State. There is also a new MVTL application form that is available on the Secretary of State’s websiteBeginning today, MVTL applications can also be created and filed online. The Secretary of State’s online filing wizard will guide people through the process of filling out and submitting the applications and payments. This will allow a first lienholder to secure its interest in a vehicle before the customer leaves the dealership. Our office is very excited to be able to turn on this new feature and provide yet another way for people to interact with the Secretary of State using online technology.
Please contact the Business Services Division by email at TNSOS.MVTL@tn.gov or by telephone at (615) 741-0529 if you have any questions or need additional information regarding the changes to the Motor Vehicle Temporary Lien statute.
