How to Apply for the Title of a Car with No Title

A car's certificate of title is a document that proves ownership of the automobile. Many cars are missing titles for various reasons, and navigating the Department of Motor Vehicles can be confusing. If the title to your car is lost or damaged, you will need a replacement.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Phone
• Vehicle title number
• Vehicle identification number (VIN)
• Paper
• Check

Instructions

1. Find the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for your state. If you live near the DMV, you can go in person and fill out the Duplicate Title Application form. Another option is to contact your DMV and have the form mailed to you. In many states you can go to a local DMV office to complete the form, but if mailing from home, you must submit the completed form to the state's DMV headquarters.

2. Search for "duplicate title application" on the DMV website. This form may be called a replacement title form or duplicate certificate of title.

3. Download the duplicate title application form. If you have had the form mailed to you, make a copy of the blank form in case you make a mistake and have to start over.

4. Fill out all necessary fields. Instructions at the top of the form will detail exactly what fields are required. You will need the vehicle identification number (VIN) for the car. The VIN identifies a specific vehicle. This number is located on the dashboard of the driver side of the car.

5. Print two copies of the completed form and save one copy as a backup. If you had the form mailed to you, make a copy of the completed form at the local library. If you do not live near a library, find a store that will allow you to make copies for a fee.

6. Send in the form with the amount to be paid to the local DMV. You can also go in person to a local DMV office in person and fill out the form.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states have instant titling offices where you can get a duplicate title the same day.

• A duplicate or replacement title will void previous titles.

References

• Application for Duplicate Certification of Title
• Florida Title Information
• Title Information Gossary

Resources

• Unofficial Department of Motor Vehicle Guide