How to Get a Duplicate Car Title in Pennsylvania

Apply for a duplicate car title through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

If your car title has been stolen, lost, misplaced or defaced, you can apply for a duplicate title through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. To buy or sell a car, you must have a copy of the car title. Doing so without a title is illegal.

Instructions

1. Download an application for a duplicate copy. For the vehicle owner, download the "Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title by Owner" Form MV-38O. Lien holders should download the "Application for Certificate of Title by Lien Holder" Form MV-38L. You can find these forms at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website.

2. Complete the application and sign it in the presence of a notary. You'll need to fill out the title number, the vehicle's VIN, your name, address, driver's license or business ID number, date of birth and reason for needing a duplicate.

3. Mail the completed and signed application along with a check or money order for the duplicate application fee to:

   PA Department of Transportation
   Bureau of Motor Vehicles
   Harrisburg, PA, 17104-2516

References

• PennDOT -- Titling and Vehicle Registration FAQ

Resources

• Owner Application MV-38O
• Lien holder Application MV-38L
• Fact Sheet: Pennsylvania Certificate of Title and Lien Fees