01
Find an official source
Start with a government agency or a contractor directly identified by that agency. A company claiming to sell government cars is not enough.
From source to pickup
How public vehicle auctions work.
The exact process belongs to the agency or authorized operator. These steps help you find the questions that must be answered before a bid.
02
Read the complete terms
Confirm public eligibility, registration deadline, required ID, license rules, deposit, buyer premium, taxes, payment, title, and removal terms.
03
Inspect when permitted
Preview the vehicle in person or arrange a qualified inspection. Do not assume a photo or short condition note identifies every problem.
04
Bid with the operator
Auctions may be online, live in person, sealed or mail-in bid, silent/spot bid, or hybrid. OwnerOnly never places or accepts bids.
05
Pay under official instructions
If you win, follow only the operator’s verified payment process and deadlines. Confirm the final invoice before transferring funds.
06
Complete title and pickup
Bring required identification, arrange transport, meet the removal deadline, and keep every title, release, bill-of-sale, and tax document.
Not confirmed means stop and check.
When OwnerOnly cannot verify a schedule, fee, requirement, vehicle, or title detail, the directory says “Not confirmed—check with the auction.” Never infer a rule from another event or another state.