The definition of an owner of a car differs for insurance companies depending upon factors set upon them by laws. Because we are licensed by each state's insurance department, we do not define what is and is not the legal definition of an owner of an automobile. Each state defines that in their state laws.

A standard legal definition in state laws is: "Legal owner" includes a person who holds unencumbered title to a vehicle or is a secured party under a security interest in a vehicle.

"Owner" or "registered owner" includes a legal owner of a vehicle where there is no security interest held by anyone on the vehicle, a buyer under a purchase money security interest, or a debtor under any security interest.

To find out how your state defines an owner of an automobile contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and insurance regulatory body (typically called the Department of Insurance).