A certificate of title is a legal document that identifies the owner of either real or personal property. A brand is added to a California Certificate of Title or registration card to note certain conditions or events in a vehicle's history.Apply to the Commissioner for a salvage certificate of title within 15 days of the time the vehicle is purchased or otherwise acquired as salvage. A "brand" is wording on a California Certificate of Title or registration card that indicates certain conditions in the vehicle's history. A title certificate proves ownership of a car, truck, motorcycle, motorboat, or manufactured home. The title is used to transfer it to another owner. Transportation Code Section 501.001.