District Of Columbia § 50-1201 - Definitions.

Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 50-1201 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 50-1201. Definitions.

50-1201

For the purposes of this chapter, the term:

(1)

“Person” shall include one or more individuals, firms or unincorporated associations, or corporations.

(2)

“Director” shall mean the Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles, including assistants or agents duly designated by the Mayor of the District of Columbia.

(3)

“Recorder” shall mean an agent responsible for recording liens, appointed by the Director.

(4)

“Certificate” shall mean a certificate of title for a motor vehicle or trailer issued by the Director.

(5)

“Owner” shall mean the person to whom such certificate is issued by the Director.

(6)

“Lien” shall mean any right or interest in or to, any security interest as defined in of the District of Columbia Official Code in, or lien or encumbrance upon any motor vehicle or trailer, or the equipment or accessories affixed or sold to be affixed thereto, in favor of a person other than the owner, except:

(A)

A sale of such motor vehicle or trailer accompanied by delivery of possession and on execution of the assignment on the back of the certificate covering it; or

(B)

Any possessory lien now or hereafter provided by law or any lien acquired in any judicial proceeding.

(7)

“Instrument” shall mean any security agreement, as defined in [see now ] of the District of Columbia Official Code, creating such lien.

(8)

“Lien information” shall mean the amount, kind, date of lien, name and address of holder or secured party as defined in [see now ] of the District of Columbia Official Code, and Recorder’s record number, if any.

(9)

“Motor vehicle” means a vehicle propelled by an internal-combustion engine, electricity, or steam. The term “motor vehicle” shall not include a traction engine, road roller, vehicle propelled only upon rails or tracks, personal assistive mobility device, as defined by , a battery-operated wheelchair when operated by a person with a disability, or a motorized bicycle.

Annotations

Section 14 of provided that the act shall expire on October 1, 2005.

Expiration of Law 14-235

Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 50-1201

What does D.C. Code § 50-1201 cover?

Section 50-1201 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite District Of Columbia § 50-1201?

A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 50-1201" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.

How does District Of Columbia § 50-1201 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.