Can someone register a car without the title if they have a written receipt with the VIN number?

Can someone register a car without the title if they have a written receipt with the VIN number?
In some states, the Seller of a can sign a special DMV form which transfers ownership where there is a lost title (Transfer of Ownership and Request for New Title). This document must be signed by the last owner of record and does NOT have to be notarized.