Do I need the title of my car to purchase plates for it?

Okay, a while ago I traded an S-10 for a 99 crown vic cop car. Me and the guy wrote up a Bill of Trade, with the model, make, year, and vin number of both vehicles. The Bill of Trade stated that I was trading my 84 S-10 for his 99 Crown Vic. And we both printed our names, and signed and dated. Along with a witness. We both exchanged titles for the vehicles, and went on our way. Well I rode on his plates till they expired, and that was in december. Now I need to buy new plates, but I lost the title. I'm wondering if I need the title to purchase plates. I heard you didn't, but I want to make sure. If anyone has and info, that would be great.