Its a lien. If its a UCC lien, then whoever filed the lien(bank, finance company, etc) will prepare a release when the loan obligation is satisfied-then they will either file/record the release or give it to the customer to file/record and show its released...all done at the county courthouse. If its a titled vehicle, then an emp of the company signs off on the title-releasing the lien-giving the title to the borrower-and the new buyer files for new title by carrying the old title and bill of sale to the courthouse (probate office).