WO2006078852A2 - Title and registration automated system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and a system for the application for title and registration of a motor vehicle. Data is input to a first computer and transmitted to a second computer. The data can be scanned or obtained by database query. The data is verified by the second computer. Data from which a tax receipt, title and/or registration application can be produced, is transmitted to the first computer. A tax receipt can be printed from the first computer, or transmitted in electronic form to another computer.

Description

TITLE AND REGISTRATION AUTOMATED SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application relates to, and claims the benefit of the filing date of, co-pending U . S . provisional patent application serial no . 60/645, 394 entitled "Securely

Printing Of Documents Remotely and Title and Registration

Automated System (TRAS) " filed on January 19, 2005. This application relates to co-pending U . S . patent application serial no . 11/062 , 079 entitled "Securing Computer Data" filed on February 21 , 2005.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the transmission of data in electronic form, and more specifically to the transmission of data involved in an application for motor vehicle title and registration in electronic form.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The current system for processing applications for motor vehicle title and registration is paper-intensive, inefficient, slow, expensive, and error prone . This section describes the steps in the process, and the current method of execution .

The Steps in the Process .

[0004] When a dealer sells a motor vehicle, the purchaser completes an application for title . The application contains information about the motor vehicle, the price, liens , the purchaser, and the seller . The application may require several supporting documents , such as a driver' s license, an insurance certificate, or a copy of the purchase agreement . The dealer, may act as agent for the taxing authority, usually a county ( "county" ) or state, collects the motor vehicle sales and use tax ("tax" ) and registration fees on the transaction . The application and tax payment is sent to the county/state . The county/state forwards the application to the titling authority, usually a state

( "state" ) . The information from the application is used to produce a receipt for the application and tax ( "tax receipt" ) . Paper copies are sent to the lien holder, if any, and to the purchaser . The purchaser is also issued a license plate and registration sticker . The state later issues title, typically in four to six weeks .

The Current Method of Execution . [0005] Either the title application form is filled out manually or the information is keyboarded into a computer and stored in a disk along with several other applications . A title clerk, an agent of the county, resident at the location of the dealer, calculates the tax manually. The dealer collects the tax and fees from the purchaser . The application, in paper or disk form, and supporting documents are then delivered by a runner or mail to the county/state, along with a check from the dealer to the county/state . For example , Dallas County, Texas presently has registered approximately 6, 500 runners employed by dealers in the delivery of title applications . The county then enters the information into an on-line system for forwarding to the state . In the case of paper documents, the county re-inputs the information in the documents into its computer system and then forwards the paper documents to the state via overnight mail . Dallas County then issues a paper tax receipt . The receipt is produced by inserting a pre-printed form into an impact printer . The pre-printed form used for the purchase of a motor vehicle serves as a receipt for the title and registration application, as well as proof of payment for the associated taxes and fees . If the form does not print properly because of misalignment or other problems, the form and the associated license plate and registration sticker must be destroyed. In the industry this is known as skips . A copy of the tax receipt is overnight mailed to any lien holder, and hand delivered or mailed to the purchaser . [0006] There are many problems associated with the current system. Because the input for the application is entered manually, either by writing or keyboarding, or both, there are many input errors . Because the local government office has no control over fee calculations by third party software, it is not uncommon to have error rates sometimes as high as 40-60% . Similarly, the tax is calculated manually, and the title clerk can make many errors . If an application has the tax calculated incorrectly or has other errors, the county/state returns it to the dealer for reprocessing. When title applications are batch processed on a disk, the county/state returns the disk and check if any of the individual applications has an error . The county may return the disk after finding an error on the first application . The dealer may correct the error and return the disk, only to find that a later application also has an error . The manual re-entering of data by a county for transmission to the state generates additional errors . It is estimated that dealer disks are returned for errors 60% of the time, and that as much as 80% to 90% of the time a county spends in processing title applications could be devoted to error correction .

[0007] The use of runners to deliver documents and disks is labor intensive, slow and inefficient . The use of title clerks to manually calculate the tax requires experienced personnel at every dealer location . A title clerk at one location may be very busy, and the clerk at another may have considerable free time . For example, county employees must wait for the arrival of dealer runners , before processing by the county begins . Dealer runners are only allowed to submit five applications at a time . They must then get back in line and wait to submit another five applications . This process is repeated until all of the applications have been submitted.

[0008] Finally, there is very little accountability in the system. There is virtually no immediate data validation, no audit control, no inventory control and limited security control . Moreover, the county has little or no control over the work flow process .

[0009] Therefore, an improved method is needed for the title application process which eliminates the need for runners, reduces errors, reduces reliance on title clerks , and provides accountability .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention provides a method and a system for handling the application for title and registration of a motor vehicle . Data is input to a source computer and transmitted to a receiving computer . The data is verified by the receiving computer . Data from which a tax receipt can be produced is transmitted to the source computer .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] For a more complete understanding of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which :

[0012] FIGURE 1 is a block diagram of a system for application for motor vehicle title and registration; [0013] FIGURE 2 is a flow diagram of the process of applying for title and registration of a motor vehicle; [0014] FIGURE 3A is a flow diagram of the process of capturing an electronic signature; and

[0015] FIGURE 3B is a flow diagram of the process of capturing a document image .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The entire contents of Provisional Patent Application Serial No . 60/ 645 , 394 entitled "Securely Printing of Documents Remotely and Title and Registration Automated System (TRAS) " filed on January 19, 2005, and the contents of U . S . Patent Application serial no . 11/062 , 079 entitled "Securing Computer Data" filed on February 21 , 2005, are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes . [0017] In the following discussion, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention . However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without such specific details . In other instances , well-known elements have been illustrated in schematic or block diagram form in order not to obscure the present invention in unnecessary detail .

[0018] It is further noted that, unless indicated otherwise, all functions described herein may be performed by either hardware or software, or some combination thereof . In a preferred embodiment, however, the functions are performed by a processor such as a computer or an electronic data processor in accordance with code such as computer program code, software, and/or integrated circuits that are coded to perform such functions, unless indicated otherwise . [0019] Referring now to FIGURE 1, reference numeral 100 generally indicates a block diagram of a system for application for motor vehicle title and registration . A computer 102 is connected to computer 104 over a network 106 or other communications link. The computer 102 can reside at a location of a motor vehicle dealer or other user of the system ( "dealer") . County (local government offices) and state may also access the application and registration data . [0020] Data for an application for title and registration is input into the computer 102 , and the data is transmitted to the computer 104 over the network or other communications link 106. The data can include the name, address , social security number, and driver' s license number of the purchaser, the make, model , and body style of the motor vehicle, the purchase price, trade-in allowance, county of sale, tax collected, the weight of the motor vehicle . The data can also include similar information about the seller of the motor vehicle, and can include an identifier for a certificate of title held by the seller . The computer 102 is connected to a scanner 108 , an electronic signature device 110, and a printer 112. Documents used to support the title and registration application process are scanned by the scanner 108 , producing electronic data and electronic images , and the electronic data and electronic images are sent to the computer 102. The documents can include titles for a new or used motor vehicle from a manufacturer or from a trade-in, if any, driver' s license, registration, proof of insurance, manufacturer' s statement of origin and power of attorney . An electronic signature device 110 is used to capture the signature of the applicant for title, and the signature in electronic form is sent to the computer 102. [0021] Some fields required in the application for title and registration are automatically completed or populated by querying a database . The computer 102 is connected to database 114 indirectly through computer 104. If the applicant is trading in a car, the vehicle identification number, license plate number or state title document number can be entered into the computer 102 , and accessing the database 114 can yield such information as the vehicle make, model , body style, model year, weight, previous owner information and lien holder information . - The database 114 resides on computer 120. In an embodiment, database 114 is a state database of motor vehicle titles and registration maintained on computer 120. It contains the owners, addresses , vehicle, make, title certificate number, and date of issuance of motor vehicle titles .

[0022] Other fields required in the application can be calculated automatically by software 130 residing on computer 102. For example, application fees depend upon the type of vehicle, license plate desired, taxable value and the weight of the vehicle, and the county or other jurisdiction of purchase . A user can enter the relevant parameters into the computer 102 , and the computer 102 , running software 130, can calculate the proper fees . Finally, some fields in the application for title and registration are entered manually into the computer 102 or are populated from other commercially available programs such as Reynolds and Reynolds or ADP .

[0023] This input procedure eliminates many errors in the title application process . Much of the data is input without manual entry, by scanning or by populating ^'through database query. The manual keying in of data at the county is eliminated. Further, the fees are calculated automatically, rather than manually. Errors in manual fee calculations cause many title applications to be returned under the current system. In addition, converting documents into electronic form and obtaining an electronic signature eliminates the need for retaining and storage of paper documents .

[0024] The application for title or registration is transmitted from the computer 102 to the computer 104 through the network or other communications link 106. The computer 104 can reside at a county/state or other agency charged with processing applications for motor vehicle title or vehicle registration . In one embodiment, the transmission uses a web-based model . Computer 104 is server, transmitting web pages to the computer 102. The dealer or other applicant enters data into the fields of the web pages, and the data is securely transmitted ( such as by- encrypting the data) to the computer 104 for collection and processing . The form can be partially filled out and transmitted to computer 104 for storage in hard disk 128 and later retrieval . Later, after the remaining information has been obtained, the data can be retrieved from hard drive 128 and completely filled out for the vehicle title application or registration . Other methods of storage are known to those of skill in the art, such as flash memory and can be used instead of a hard drive . In other embodiments , suitable alternative means of communication between the computer 102 and the computer 104 can be used.

[0025] The system 100 can also be used to transmit messages between a user at the computer 102 and a user at the computer 104 over the network 106. A secure instant messaging module enables much more efficient communication between the dealer and its staff and the county/state government office . The secure instant messaging module can provide one-way information about who is online, revealing to the local/state office who is online at the dealership, but not revealing to the dealer staff who is online at the local/state office . The secure instant messaging module can direct a message from a dealer staff user to the next available person at the county/state .

[0026] The system 100 provides additional support features . In one embodiment, on-line help is available to the user in executing the functions of the system. For example, the manual on motor vehicle title and registration of the governmental agency involved can be put on-line, as a fully indexed help/reference document .

[0027] Once transmitted to the computer 104 , the application for motor vehicle title and registration is verified. The county checks that the facts presented in the application match with its records and that the fees were properly calculated. Further, the county checks that electronic copies of the required supporting documents , such as driver' s license and title of the seller have been transmitted, and that an electronic signature has been transmitted. In addition, the fees associated with the application are processed. The system includes online billing, ACH processing and integration with other government back end systems . In one embodiment, the fees can be automatically withdrawn from the bank account of a dealer .

[0028] Next, the data from which a tax receipt can be produced is transmitted from the computer 104 back to the computer 102 , and a tax receipt is printed over the printer 112. The data can include the purchaser ' s name and address, a description of the vehicle registered, the lienholder ' s information, if applicable, date the receipt is issued, county in which the receipt is issued, name of tax assessor- collector, identification number of the deputy issuing the receipt, name of previous owner, sales price, trade-in allowance, amount of tax collected, a license plate number, and registration number . The dealer can transmit a copy of the tax receipt by secure e-mail or other means over the network 106 to the computer 116 of a financial institution or other lender . The dealer can also transmit scanned images of supporting documents and other electronic data to the computer 116 of a financial institution or other lender for use in obtaining a loan for the purchaser . This collection of data transmitted to the financial institution or other lender is called an electronic deal j acket .

[0029] An electronic deal j acket may include two subsets of data, such as data representing those items required and produced by the county or state, and any additional items required by the lender . Items required and produced by the state comprise one or more of a tax receipt, the title and registration application, title form (MCO/MSO) , buyer' s statement, insurance certification, a copy of the buyer' s driver' s license, and a mileage certificate . Items required by the lender comprise one or more of after-market insurance policies, warranties , and service policies . An electronic deal jacket can be transmitted including only data representing information contained in and/or images of the items required and produced by the county or state, or also including additional items required by the lender, as required. The data can be transmitted from the computer 104 of the county to the computer 120 of the state or other agency . The tax receipt is transmitted in electronic form from computer 104 to computer 102. [0030] The data in the application is also transmitted by the county from computer 104 over a network or other communications link 118 to the database 114 of the state in computer 120, and the state eventually issues title via mail . The title can also be sent on a more immediate basis to the lender if the state uses the TRAS program as its primary database . In other embodiments , other jurisdictions or agencies receive title application and registration data for processing. For example , in the District of Columbia, the county and state are in effect the same entity, and a single computer located in the district would hold the database of titles for the district and would communicate with the computers 102 of dealers . [0031] The database 114 resides on a server 120 located in secure facilities such a commercial data warehouse . More than one such server 120 could be employed to store the database 114 , and one or more of each such server 120 could be co-located in the same facility or stored in separate facilities . There are currently several such warehouses at various locations in the United States . Each server 120 can hold data for one or more counties . The servers 120 can also be grouped together to work in tandem depending upon the storage requirements of the State . The database 114 is built on Microsoft SQL server software and may contain multiple databases with multiple tables, depending on the modules and their complexity . In some embodiments , the agency receiving the initial application may have full authority over issuing motor vehicle titles, and the application data is not transmitted to another agency . Additionally, the system 100 can be configured to process title application and issuance data, vehicle registration data or both .

[0032] The system 100 also provides for backing up the data . The computer 104 is connected to a storage medium. In one embodiment, the computer 104 can be connected to a DVD/CD burner 122 , and the data transmitted to computer 104 in the course of applications for motor vehicle title and registration can be stored on CDs or DVDs . In other embodiments , the computer can be connected to other storage devices , such as tapes , cartridges, optical or removable drives . The computer 104 is also connected to a printer 124 for any necessary printing . [0033] This system 100 for application for motor vehicle title and registration eliminates the need for transporting and storing physical documents as part of the application process . All data and images used in the application process are converted to electronic form, and both are stored and transmitted in that form, at the point of entry into the system 100 , such as at the dealer, county or other local government office, as desired. In addition, the system 100 eliminates the need for physical storage of a title document, as a title document can be converted into an electronic image and stored on the storage medium of the system 100. In an embodiment, it can be stored on a CD through use of the CD/DVD burner 122. In another embodiment, it can be stored on hard drive 128. [0034] In effect, the data is assembled into an electronic deal j acket . The data can be transmitted from computer 102 of the dealer or other system user to computer 104 of the county or other agency or to computer 116 of a financial institution or other lender . In response, the tax receipt is transmitted electronically from computer 104 of the county or other agency to computer 102 of the dealer or other system user .

[0035] System 100 reduces or eliminates the cost, delay and inefficiencies of currently associated with use of runners and overnight mail . If application data contains an error, the county or state simply informs the dealer of the error by e-mail or other electronic communication, and the dealer amends the application using system 100 and retransmits the corrected data . For example, if the dealer forgets to sign or fill in the back of the title, an embodiment of the system 100 can identify errors in or omissions from scanned ^' documents, and generates an error message to be transmitted by e-mail or other electronic communication if an error or omission in a document is found. Similarly, if a financial institution or other lender rejects a loan, system 100 can be used by the dealer to submit to data concerning the vehicle to another lender, without needing to retrieve physical documentation from the rej ecting institution . The dealer has the supporting documentation already on hand, and can immediately transmit it in electronic form to another lender . In addition, the system is much faster . Further, system 100 does not require storage of paper documents . The applications can be stored in electronic form. The storage of paper documents is expensive, because of the large amount of space that is required. The system 100 also eliminates the time delays with accessing physical records or locating them. [0036] Finally, the database of title holders is much more current . The database can be updated in real time for applications filed electronically by the system 100. This increased accuracy is especially important in an age of terrorists , where vehicle transactions may well be involved in associated activities . In one embodiment, the accuracy can be further increased by making the database, rather than the title document itself, authoritative . In this embodiment, notice must be given to the agency maintaining the database when title is transferred. Doing so enables a state or other taxing authority to prevent the avoidance of tax payment when vehicle title is transferred.

[0037] The system 100 provides additional support features . In one embodiment, on-line help is available to the user in executing the functions of the system. The manual on motor vehicle title of the governmental agency involved can be put on-line, as a help/reference document . [0038] In another embodiment, changes to the legal framework for processing title applications would yield increased benefits from use of the system 100. First, the county/state title database, rather than paper title documents, would become authoritative evidence of ownership . In addition, vehicle sellers would be required to provide notification to the county/state of the transfer of title of a motor vehicle . Upon a transfer of title, the parties would use the system 100 to submit an application for title for the transferee . As part of the application process , the county/state would update the title database to indicate the new owner . In case the transfer of title did not involve a dealer or other user of the system 100 , the notification can be made on the user' s computer at home, anywhere the user has access to the Internet or other communication system, or at a county/state office . [0039] Similar rules can apply to liens . Instead of issuing paper titles to financial institutions or other lenders, entries can be made in the county/state database to indicate the lien-holder of record. Liens can also be released by proper updating of the county/state database . The financial institution or other lender notifies the county/state of the creation or release of any lien . The notification can be done electronically with e-mail and/or by any other communication system, after proper verification . [0040] Through system 100, the issuance of paper titles could be eliminated in most circumstances . The county/state would be spared the expense of issuing paper documents of title, and all parties would be spared the delay in issuance of the paper documents . In addition, these changes - improve the reliability of the county/state database . The title database would contain current records of ownership of title, since it would be updated in real time . Further, the change in the legal framework would protect the revenue of the county/state . Under the current system, some transfers of title are never reported to the county/state and it cannot collect the taxes and other fees due . Instead, the transferor simply passes the title document to the transferee . With system 100 , the transfer would be ineffective without being recorded in the state/county database . Thus, the transferee would be encouraged to make sure that the transfer was recorded. Paper titles would only serve as a "statement of ownership status" as of a certain date and point in time, such as of the date and time stamped on the face of a title . For individuals or entities that required a paper record, paper titles could be printed on secure paper by authorized bonded users, financial institutions or at local government offices . [0041] In another embodiment, as a further ' optional variation of the system 100 and change in the legal framework, the county/state could prohibit the transfer of license plates . Instead, the license plate would be valid only for a particular vehicle and owner . Currently, many states allow for license plates to be transferred with the vehicle . The current policy facilitates bypassing the registration and transfer process, and avoiding the payment of the appropriate fees and taxes .

[0042] In addition, the county/state would use the valuation figures of a recognized third-party authority as the prima facie value of a motor vehicle, rather than the value stated by the parties to the transfer of title . The county/state can use the NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) "Blue Book" value, adjusted for mileage . An appeal process would be available, as for property taxes , if the parties objected. The Blue Book values are available on-line . In one embodiment, the system 100 can automatically generate the value from the information provided about the make, model, body style, the year, and the mileage, as well as any other criteria designated by the state . As a result, parties would no longer be able to escape a proper fee by using an unrealistically low price as the stated sales price of a transfer of title . [0043] The county/state can increase its efficiency by limiting the initial processing of titling and registration to county offices . The county offices can also expand their operations to include registration for large commercial vehicles . With these changes, there would be fewer types of government offices to connect to the system 100, and implementation of the system 100 would be easier . [0044] An additional change involves vehicle fleet registration . Under the old system, vehicles must be registered individually . In one embodiment of system 100 , multiple vehicles of a single owner can be registered by a single registration application . In the application, information about the common owner is provided once, and then information about each vehicle in the fleet for which registration is desired. In effect, the information about the common owner becomes a header, followed by a list including each vehicle in the fleet . The list of vehicles may comprise additional information about each vehicle to be registered to the common owner identified in the header . The application can be submitted in electronic form, over the Internet in one embodiment .

[0045] The system 100 for application for motor vehicle title provides a high degree of security for the data involved in the applications, with multiple security features . First, access to the system is restricted by highly defined user rights . A user at any location must provide authentication . In one embodiment, she must login with a proper login and PIN . In one embodiment, the user must login with a proper login and password. In this application, "user login" shall mean a user login and presentation of a PIN or password. In addition, she the •user must present a USB key to the system for recognition . A USB key is a device that contains a smart chip (mini- version of microprocessor and memory) and plugs into a USB port . The memory contains a digital certificate which is used to identify a user . Verification can be tied to a particular computer and individual . This embodiment uses an iKey, a version of a USB key manufactured by SafeNet, 4690 Millennium Drive, Belcamp, MD 21017.

[0046] Further, a user preferably can only access the system 100 from a computer with a recognized IP address . The system 100 can handle both static and dynamic IP addresses . Thus , the system 100 can allow a user to access it from an office computer, but prohibit her from accessing it from her home computer, even if she provides the proper login and PIN and inserted her iKey in the home computer . These security features can be implemented by local J ava scripts and DLLs . These scripts and executable files are required to be installed on the local user' s computer for access to the secure part of the program. Other embodiments can use other authentication devices including but not limited to smartcards and biometric devices such as fingerprint scanning and iris scanning . In other embodiments , one or more authentication procedures must be performed before accessing the system. In other embodiments, the user must provide a password rather than a PIN . [0047] In FIGURE 1 , a user at computer 102 has inserted her iKey 124 and the user at the computer 104 has inserted her iKey 126. Both users have logged in and provided log in name and a PIN . The system 100 recognizes the IP addresses of the computer 102 and the computer 104.

[0048] As a second security measure, the data involved in the process is encrypted, and stored and transmitted in encrypted form. It is decrypted only when it is being used. Typical encryption/decryption technologies than can be utilized, as examples , comprise triple DES with custom security vectors , PKI, digital certificates with private leys and public keys , among other such technologies available now or in the future . In addition, the data used to produce a tax receipt is not stored locally on the source computer 102 or the print buffer of the printer 112 after the receipt has been printed. Finally, the tax receipt is printed with security features as described in the patent application entitled "Securing Computer Data" (Docket No . CDGT 3117001) incorporated herein by reference . It can be printed by the printer 112 onto pre-printed or partially pre-printed forms which contain safety features . In addition, safety features can be printed onto the documents . These safety features include, but are not limited to watermarks , a bar code (two dimensional or standard format) , and other features which are difficult or impossible to duplicate, are sensitive to photocopying, or are difficult to alter, such as a copy-void pantograph, a warning band, prismatic printing, chemically sensitive inks , thermochromatic ink, a step and repeat pattern, micro printed borders and signature, high resolution borders, an original document prismatic image, laid lines, a security legend, consecutive numbering, a covert number system, and the like, such as described in the attached Appendix, Exhibit 1 , Automated Title & Registration specification sheet . The combination of these security measures provides the system 100 for application for motor vehicle title with a very high degree of security . [0049] FIGURE 2 is a flow diagram of the process of applying for title of a motor vehicle . In step 202 , data is input into the computer 102 of a dealer . The data can include the purchaser ' s name and address , a description of the vehicle registered, the lienholder ' s information, if applicable, date the receipt is issued, county in which the receipt is issued, name of previous owner, sales price, trade-in allowance, and amount of tax collected. The data can be input in several ways . In sub step 204 of step 202 , documents are scanned with a scanner 108 and the resulting data input into the computer 102. In sub step 206, the signature of the purchaser or other new owner is captured in electronic form by electronic signature device 110 and the electronic signature is input into the computer 102. In sub step 208 , some items of data are entered manually. In sub step 210 , some fields of the title application are filled out or populated by querying a database . For example, using the vehicle identification number in a state database query for existing Texas records may be used to obtain information about the make, model, body style, engine type, previous registration information, and weight . The driver' s license number may be used similarly to obtain information about the name and address of the driver . In sub step 212 of step 202 , the fees are calculated by software 130 on computer 102. The fees can be calculated from the registration information make, weight and sales price of the motor vehicle, the county in which the transaction occurs, and other data . [0050] In step 214 , the data is transmitted to the computer 104 of the county or other agency which processes motor vehicle titles and registration . In one embodiment, a partially-complete form can be transmitted to computer 104 , stored on hard drive 128 , and later retrieved by a dealer or other system user for further processing . Other forms of storage are known to those of skill in the art, including flash memory and removable storage media . In step 216, the data is verified. The county or other agency verifies that the fee is correct by comparison to data in the system 100 database, and that the data submitted in the application matches the data in the system 100 database . In step 218 , the application is forwarded to the computer 120 of the state or other jurisdiction which grants title to motor vehicles . In an alternate embodiment, the application is not forwarded. The agency initially receiving the application also grants title . The system 100 maintains real-time data concerning inventory of license plates, registration stickers and tax receipt numbers and any other inventory items tracked by the state .

[0051] In step 220 , the account of the dealer is charged the fees for the application . The fees can be automatically debited or credited to/from the account of the dealer by the county/state computer 104 , via electronic funds transfer (EFT) with the computer 116 or the dealer' s bank, which in the example shown is the financial institution/lender . In step 222 , data from which a tax receipt can be created is transmitted to the computer 102 of the dealer . This receipt serves as evidence of title until the actual certificate of title is delivered. In step 224 , this receipt data is generated and distributed. In sub step 226 of step 224 , a copy is printed out from computer 102 at printer 112 and delivered to the customer or other new owner . In sub step 228 , another copy is e-mailed or otherwise transmitted in read-only electronic form, such as a portable document format (PDF) file, to a financial institution or other lender at computer 116. [0052] In step 230 , the dealer issues the license plate and registration sticker referenced by the tax receipt . The system 100 maintains an inventory of the plates and stickers on hand at the dealer or other system user . When the tax receipt is generated, it refers to a plate and a sticker that the dealer has on hand. The system 100 provides for the generation of detailed audit information . When a tax receipt is produced, the system generates a transaction identifier that provides detailed information about the transaction . In one embodiment, the identifier can reference the number of the tax receipt, the license plate , the registration sticker, the dealer, and the time and date of the transaction . The inventory database of the system 100 receives and updates inventory data associated with UPS delivery of license plates and registration stickers when received by the dealer and notifies the county/state when to reorder . This real-time inventory control through the system 100, wherein county and state agencies monitor dealer inventories of license plates and registration stickers , allows the state government to permit dealers to issue license plates to both new and used cars, and for multiple plate types .

[0053] FIGURE 3A is a flow diagram of the process of capturing an electronic signature . In step 302 , the dealer enters data to identify the transaction . The data can include a vehicle identification number ("VIN" ) , the name of the purchaser, and/or the date . It can also contain the deal number, stock number and other internal numbers assigned by the dealer to identify the vehicle and/or transaction . In step 304 , the buyer or other applicant signs her name on a device to capture an electronic signature of the buyer/applicant and/or an F&I person, title clerk or an authorized employee of the dealer . The device is connected to the dealer' s computer 102 , and the electronic signature is transmitted to computer 102. In step 306, a disclosure and authorization statement is printed. The statement explains the use of the electronic signature, and authorizes the dealership to use the electronic signature on any documents needed to complete the title and registration application, including the application itself, and supporting documents such as lender and aftermarket documents if permitted by the state . The buyer signs the two copies of the form, to evidence her agreement for capture and use of the signature , one copy for the buyer and the dealer retains the second signed copy of the form. Other documents will also be signed by the buyer, to the extent needed to comply with applicable laws and laws of each state governing electronic signatures . In step 308 , a sample of the form on which the signature will appear is printed, along with sample signature and any other pertinent information available . Thus , the buyer/applicant can see how her signature will be used. [0054] FIGURE 3B is a flow diagram of the process of capturing a document image . In step 310 , the dealer again enters data about the transaction document into the system 100. She can also identify the document about to be scanned by the type, such as whether it is a driver' s license or certificate of title or another type of document . Additional information pertinent to the transaction and associated with the document scanned can be input as well . In step 312 , a document is scanned into a scanner connected to the computer 102 of a dealer . The image data of the document is captured and sent to the state/county server 104. In an embodiment, information contained in the scanned image of the document can be recognized by optical character recognition (OCR) and or intelligent character recognition ( ICR) , and the accuracy and/or completeness of the information can be verified. In step 314 , the scanned image is viewed on the computer 102. During step 314 , the title or other information about the nature of the document can be deleted or altered using computer 102 without requiring the document image to be rescanned. If the scan was successful, in step 316 the scanned image is transmitted to the computer of a state/county or other agency which handles motor vehicle title and registration applications . If the scan was not successful , the document can be rescanned. The scanned images are sent to the county/state and can be sent to a financial institution or other lender, as support for a loan application .

[0055] The system 100 may also be used to complete, process , manage, transmit and store records required by HIPPA, INS laws and regulations , Transportation Security Administration, Homeland Security, and the like, including, but not limited to, the exchange of such information with local, county and state governments and law enforcement .

[0056] Having thus described the present invention by reference to certain of its preferred embodiments , it is noted that the embodiments disclosed are illustrative rather than limiting in nature and that a wide range of variations, modifications, changes , and substitutions are contemplated in the foregoing disclosure and, in some instances , some features of the present invention may be employed without a corresponding use of the other features . Many such variations and modifications may be considered desirable by those skilled in the art based upon a review of the foregoing description of preferred embodiments . Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the invention .

Claims

1. A system for application for motor vehicle title and registration, comprising: a first computer; a second computer; and a communications link between the first computer and the second computer for the transmission of electronic data; wherein the first computer is configured for the input of data required for an application for motor vehicle title and registration from a plurality of sources and for the transmission of the data to the second computer over the communications link.

2. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the second computer, responsive to the transmission of the data from the first computer, is configured to transmit to the first computer over the communications link data from which a receipt and title application can be produced.

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the communications link comprises at least a portion of the Internet .

4. The system of Claim 1, further comprising : a scanner connected to a first computer; and wherein at least one function of the scanner is controlled by the second server and the scanner is configured to scan paper documents and to transmit the resulting data to the first computer .

5. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising : an electronic signature device connected to the first computer; and wherein the electronic signature device is configured to capture a signature and to transmit the signature in electronic form to the first computer .

β . The system of Claim 1, further comprising : a database accessible by the second computer; and wherein the first computer is configured to transmit queries to the second computer, the second computer is configured to submit the queries to the database , and the database is configured to respond to the queries .

7. The system of Claim 6, wherein the database is configured to be searchable by one or more data fields of the database .

8. The system of Claim 7 , wherein the database is further configured to be searchable by one or more data fields from a group of data fields comprising TRAS ID, deal number, dealer stock number, title, document number, motor vehicle application type , motor vehicle registration class, vehicle owner, VIN, vehicle dealer group, vehicle dealership, vehicle application status, date range or county/state .

9. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising : a removable storage medium connected to the second computer; and wherein the second computer is configured to write to the removable storage medium at least a portion of the data transmitted from the first computer .

10. The system of Claim 9, wherein at least a portion of the data written to the removable storage medium consists of electronic imaging of one or more motor vehicle titles and one or more vehicle registrations .

11. The system of Claim 1, further comprising : a security token; and wherein the first computer is further configured to receive or access one or more security tokens comprising a digital certificate, and to deny a user access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer until the digital certificate is verified by the system.

12. The system of Claim 11 , wherein the first computer is configured to deny access by each of a plurality of users to different portions of the software programs on the first computer .

13. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the first computer is further configured to deny a user access to at least a portion of software programs on the first computer until the system verifies a user login indicia .

14. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the first computer is further configured to deny a user access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer until the system verifies an IP address of the first computer .

15. The system of Claim 11 , wherein the first computer is further configured to deny a user access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer until the system verifies a user login indicia and the system verifies an IP address of the first computer .

16. The system of Claim 1, wherein the first computer is further configured to deny a user access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer until the system verifies at least two forms of authentication provided by the user .

17. The system of Claim 2 , further comprising : a printer connected to the first computer; and wherein the first computer is further configured to generate a tax receipt responsive to the data transmitted from the second computer and to provide data to the printer allowing or causing the printer to print a tax receipt .

18. The system of Claim 17 , further comprising security paper; wherein the system is further configured for the tax receipt to be printed by the printer on the security paper .

19. The system of Claim 2 , further comprising : a quantity of license plates ; and a quantity of registration stickers or remote sticker printing system; wherein the second computer is configured to maintain an inventory of the stock of license plates and registration stickers ; and wherein the second computer is configured to include in the data transmitted to the first computer data identifying license plates and registration stickers in the stocks of license plates and registration stickers .

20. The system of Claim 19, wherein the second computer is further configured to maintain an inventory of tax receipt numbers .

21. The system of Claim 2 , further comprising : a third computer; and a communications link between the third computer and the first computer for the transmission of electronic data; and wherein the first computer is configured to transmit data for use in loan applications over the communications link to the third-party computer .

22. The system of Claim 21 , wherein the first computer is configured to transmit over the communications link to the third-party computer data for use in after market applications .

23. The system of Claim 1, wherein the second computer is operated by an agency of a county; and wherein only agencies of the county process applications for motor vehicle titles and registrations .

24. A method for application for vehicle title and registration, comprising the steps of : inputting a first set of data required for an application for vehicle title to a first computer; transmitting the data to a second computer in electronic form; verifying the data on the second computer; and transmitting a second set of data from which a tax receipt can be produced from the second computer to the first computer in electronic form, responsive to the transmission of data from the first computer .

25. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of printing a tax receipt from the first computer .

26. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of transmitting at least a portion of the first set of data or second set of data in electronic form to a financial institution, other lender or other after market entities .

27. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the step of inputting data into the first computer further comprises the steps of : scanning documents ; and inputting the scanned data into the first computer .

28. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the step of inputting data into the first computer further comprises : querying a database to obtain data .

29. The method of Claim 28 , wherein the step of querying a database further comprises the step of querying a database to obtain the valuation of a vehicle .

30. A method for transferring title to a vehicle, comprising the steps of: submitting information about a transfer of title to a one or both of a county and state agency; querying a database to obtain the valuation of the vehicle; and calculating the fees for the transfer of title, responsive to the valuation obtained from the database .

31. The method of Claim 28 , wherein the step of querying the database further comprises searching the database by one or more fields of the database .

32. The method of Claim 31 , wherein the step of searching the database further comprises searching the database by one or more data fields from a group of data fields comprising TRAS ID, deal number dealer stock number, title document numbers, VIN, registration class , application type , vehicle dealer group, vehicle dealership, vehicle application status , date range or county .

33. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the step of inputting data into the first computer further comprises : executing a software program to obtain data from other programs or databases .

34. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the step of inputting data into the first computer further comprises : capturing an electronic signature; and inputting the signature into the first computer .

35. The method of Claim 34 , further comprising the step of signing a form consenting to the use of the electronic signature on any documents needed for the application for title .

36. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of : encrypting the data after it is input to the first computer .

37. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of : providing at least one form of authentication to gain access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer .

38. The method of Claim 37 , wherein the step of providing at least one form of authentication further comprises the steps of : the first computer receiving or accessing a security token comprising a digital certificate; and verifying the digital certificate of the security token .

39. The method of Claim 37 , wherein the step of providing at least one form of authentication further comprises the step of : verifying a user login indicia .

40. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of : verifying an IP address before gaining access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer .

41. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of : providing at least two forms of authentication to gain access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer .

42. The method of Claim 41 , further comprising the step of : verifying an IP address before gaining access to at least a portion of the software programs on the first computer .

43. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the step of transmitting a second set of data from the second computer to the first computer further comprises : encrypting the data; transmitting the data to the first computer; and decrypting the data .

44. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of communicating between the first and second computers by an instant messaging module .

45. The method of Claim 44 , wherein the step of communicating by an instant messaging module further comprises communicating by a secure instant messaging module .

46. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of debiting a bank account to pay at least a portion of taxes or fees associated with the first set of data required for the application for vehicle title .

47. The method of Claim 25, further comprising the step of : issuing a license plate; and wherein the step of printing the tax receipt further comprises printing a tax receipt referencing the license plate .

48. The method of Claim 24 , further comprising the step of : transmitting a copy of the tax receipt to a financial institution or other lender in electronic form.

49. The method of Claim 48 , further comprising transmitting a copy of the tax receipt to a financial institution in an electronic deal j acket .

50. The method of Claim 25 , further comprising the step of deleting the data from the first computer after the printing has been attempted, whether successfully or unsuccessfully.

51. The method of Claim 25 , further comprising the step of deleting the data from the printer buffer after the printing has been attempted, whether successfully or unsuccessfully .

52. The method of Claim 25, wherein the step of printing comprises printing onto an at least partially pre-printed form .

53. The method of Claim 25 , wherein the step of printing a tax receipt further comprises printing one or more security features onto the tax receipt .

54. The method of Claim 25, further comprising the step of generating a document identifier; wherein the document identifier comprises at least data representing an identifier of the tax receipt .

55. The method of Claim 54 , further comprising the step of generating a file comprising at least data representing an identifier of the tax receipt, title and registration application .

56. The method of Claim 24 , wherein the second computer is operated by an agency of a county; and wherein only agencies of the county accept applications for motor vehicle title, registration and perform the initial processing of the applications .

57. A method for ascertaining title to motor vehicles , comprising the steps of : maintaining a database of vehicle titles ; updating the database when title to a motor vehicle and registration is transferred; and checking the database to ascertain the title to a vehicle .

58. The method of Claim 57 , wherein the step of updating the database further comprises transmitting data associated with title transfer and registration in electronic form.

59. The method of Claim 57, wherein information comprising at least a portion of the database is determinative of title and or registration .

60. The method of Claim 57 , wherein the database further comprises data associated with liens on vehicles, and further comprising the step of : updating the database to comprise data necessary to identify a lien .

61. The method of Claim 60 , wherein the step of updating the database to identify a lien further comprises the step of transmitting, from a financial institution or other lender holding the lien to an entity maintaining the database, data associated with creation of a lien .

62. The method of Claim 60 , further comprising the step of : updating the database with data associated with release of a lien .

63. The method of Claim 62 , wherein the step of updating the database with data associated with release of a lien further comprises the step of transmitting data associated with release of a lien from a financial institution or other lender holding the lien to an entity maintaining the database .

64. A method for grouping the registration of vehicles by owner, comprising the steps of : submitting at a first computer an electronic application for the motor vehicle registration for at least two commercial vehicles with the same owner to a first computer; transmitting the application to a second computer in electronic form; and registering at least two vehicles; wherein information about the owner is provided only once at the first computer for the registration of the at least two vehicles .

65. A computer program product for application for vehicle title and registration, the computer program product having a computer-readable medium with a computer program embodied thereon, the computer program comprising : computer code for inputting data to a first computer; computer code for transmitting the data to a second computer; computer code for verifying the data on the second computer; and computer code for transmitting from the second computer to the first computer, at least a portion of the data from which a tax receipt can be produced.

66. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising computer code for printing a tax receipt employing data associated with the tax receipt received from the first computer .

67. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising : computer code for scanning documents / and computer code for inputting the scanned data into the first computer .

68. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising : computer code for querying a database to obtain data .

69. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising: computer code for executing a software program to obtain data .

70. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising : computer code for capturing an electronic signature; and computer code for inputting the signature into the first computer .

71. The computer program product of Claim 65 , further comprising : computer code for encrypting the data after it is input to the first computer .

72. The computer program product of Claim 65, further comprising : computer code for providing authentication to gain access to the data on the first computer .

73. The computer program product of Claim _. 12 , further comprising : computer code for evaluating a security token provided to the first computer; and computer code for verifying a digital certificate forming at least a portion of the security token .

74. The computer program product of Claim 65, further comprising computer code for debiting a bank account to pay fees associated with the application .

75. The computer program product of Claim 66, further comprising : computer code for issuing a license plate ; and wherein the computer code for a tax receipt further comprises computer code for printing a tax receipt referencing at least the license plate .