How to Apply for a Duplicate Title
Has your car title gone missing or been damaged? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of obtaining a replacement title, detailing the forms, fees, and notary requirements for each state. Find the information you need to reclaim your vehicle's ownership and get back on the road.
There are many situations where you may need a new or updated car title, such as misplacing it, damage from natural disasters or theft, or even damage caused by pets. It's essential to address this issue promptly, as you'll need the title for various transactions involving your vehicle. Moreover, the title may be required when re-registering your vehicle after moving to a new state. Since most states need time to process and mail a replacement title, it's best not to delay.
In this article, we provide an overview of the process to obtain a replacement title and the necessary supporting documents.
A car title is the legal proof of your ownership. If it's lost or damaged, you must request a duplicate from the relevant authority. Usually, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a similar organization is responsible for this. In some cases, other departments handle title replacements, such as the Department of Justice or the Secretary of State.
Each state has its regulations for replacing a lost car title, but the fundamental steps are similar. This guide will help you navigate the process seamlessly.
Why Replace a Lost Car Title?
A car title is an official document proving your ownership. It's necessary for transactions like selling, using your vehicle as collateral for a loan, gifting, or donating.
Essential steps to replace your lost car title:
Step 1 - Identify Your State's Motor Vehicle Authority
The state authority responsible for issuing car titles is usually called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a similar name. In some states, other departments or offices handle car title management.
Step 2 - Complete the Appropriate Form
Each state has its form for replacing a lost car title. Most states offer these forms as downloadable PDFs that can be filled out on your computer or device before printing.
Step 3 - Submit the Form and Pay the Fee
Some states allow you to submit your application for a replacement car title online. In other states, you will need to apply by mail or in person.
How to Replace a Lost Car Title by State
This guide provides an overview of the process for obtaining a replacement title in your state. Visit your state's DMV or other motor vehicle authority website to verify the requirements.
| State | Form | Fee | Notary Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | MVT 12 1 | $15.00 | No |
| Alaska | Form 809 | $15.00 | Yes |
| Arizona | 96 0236 | $4.00 | No |
| Arkansas | 10 381 | $10.00 | No |
| California | Reg 227 | $22.00 | Yes |
| Colorado | DR 2539A | $8.20 | No |
| Connecticut | H 6B | $25.00 | No |
| Delaware | MV 213 | $50.00 | No |
| District of Columbia | DMV CTA 001 | $26.00 | No |
| Florida | HSMV 82101 | $75.25 | No |
| Georgia | MV 1 | $8.00 | No |
| Hawaii | County of Hawaii form | $5.00 | Yes |
| City and County of Honolulu form | $10.00 | Yes | |
| County of Maui form | $10.00 | Yes | |
| County of Kauai form | $5.00 | Yes | |
| Idaho | ITD 3367 | $14.00 | Yes |
| Illinois | 190 | $95.00 | No |
| Indiana | 205 | $15.00 | No |
| Iowa | 411033 | $25.00 | No |
| Kansas | TR 720B | $10.00 | No |
| Kentucky | TC 96 182 | $6.00 | Yes |
| Louisiana | DPSMV1799 | $76.50 | Yes |
| Maine | MVT 8 | $46.00 Online, $33.00 Mail | No |
| Maryland | VR 018 | $20.00 | No |
| Massachusetts | T20558 | $25.00 | No |
| Michigan | OSRS | $25.00 | No |
| Minnesota | PS 2067A 18 | $17.25 | No |
| Mississippi | 78 006 | $9.00 | Yes |
| Missouri | DOR 108 | $14.50 | Yes |
| Montana | MV7 | $10.30 | No |
| Nebraska | RV 707A | $14.00 | Yes |
| Nevada | VP012 | $21.00, $36.00 if car is not in state | Yes |
| New Hampshire | TDMV 18 | $25.00 | No |
| New Jersey | OS SS 52 | $60.00 | No |
| New Mexico | MVD 10901 | $5.00 | No |
| New York | MV 902 | $20.00 | No |
| North Carolina | MVR 5 | $20.00 | Yes |
| North Dakota | SFN 2872 | $5.00 | No |
| Ohio | BMV 3774 | $15.00 | Yes |
| Oklahoma | 701 7 | $12.50 | Yes |
| Oregon | 735 515 | $93.00 | No |
| Pennsylvania | MV 380 | $55.00 | Yes |
| Rhode Island | TR 2 TR 9 | $52.50 | Yes |
| South Carolina | Form 400 D | $15.00 | No |
| South Dakota | MV 010 | $10.00 | Yes |
| Tennessee | RV F 1321801 | $11.00 | No |
| Texas | VTR 34 | $2.00 mail, $5.45 in person | No |
| Utah | TC 123 | $6.00 | No |
| Vermont | VT 004 | $35.00 | No |
| Virginia | VSA 67 | $15.00 in person or mail, $14.00 online | No |
| Washington | TD 420 040 | $35.50 | Yes |
| West Virginia | DMV 4 TR | $15.00 | No |
| Wisconsin | MV2119 | $20.00 | No |
| Wyoming | By county | $15.00 | Yes |
Making Corrections on a Duplicate Title
Update your records when replacing a lost car title if you've recently changed your name due to marriage or divorce. You might need to submit a form with a brief explanation for the name change.
How to Replace a Lost Car Title Not in Your Name
If you purchased a used car from a private seller and lost the title before applying for a title transfer, try to have the seller request the duplicate. Under certain circumstances, you can replace a lost car title with a court order.
Conclusion
A car title proves your lawful ownership of a vehicle. If it's lost or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate.
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