Work out which problem you actually have
'I lost it', 'it's in my late father's name', 'the guy I bought it from never gave me one' and 'this car isn't mine' are four different situations with four different answers. Be specific when you call and you'll get a straight answer faster.
If you simply lost it
Illinois issues duplicate titles through the Secretary of State. If you're the registered owner that's usually the cleanest route and it makes everything afterwards simple. Check current forms, fees and timescales with the Secretary of State directly, since those change.
What helps when there's no title at all
Photo ID matching the registration, the old registration card, the plate, a bill of sale - anything connecting you to the vehicle. The VIN from the dash or door jamb is needed either way.
Vehicles in someone else's name
If the registered owner has died, moved or can't be found, the requirements get more specific. Don't guess and don't let a buyer wave it away - describe the situation exactly and let them tell you what's possible.
Be wary of anyone who says paperwork doesn't matter
A buyer happy to take any vehicle with no questions isn't doing you a favour. Documentation protects you as much as them - you don't want a car still legally attached to your name after it leaves your property.
Afterwards
Take the plates before the car goes on the truck, and cancel or transfer the registration. Keep whatever paperwork the buyer hands you.
Want a figure on your car?
We're at 7148 S Aberdeen St and the phone is answered 24 hours: (708) 994-7429. Free tow across the South and Far South Side, cash at pickup.
Get a cash figure
A few details and a phone number. We come back with a figure.
Tell us what you've got
One call, one number, one truck. We're on Aberdeen just off 71st and we run around the clock.