How to File for a Lost Title at the DMV

Filling out paperwork is necessary to get a lost vehicle title.

Before you can sell your car or trade it in for that new vehicle you've been dreaming about at a dealership, you have to find the title you put away with all your important papers. If you can't find the title, you must file for a new one through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Each state has variations in how this is done, but the same series of steps are standard.

Instructions

1. Fill out an application for duplicate or replacement title in front of a notary public. Get this form from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. You can fill out the form at the DMV or take it home and mail it in later.

2. Photocopy your driver's license or photo identification and include it with the application when you submit it to the DMV. All owners of the vehicle must be listed on the application and submit copies of their photo ID. Examples of acceptable identification include state issued IDs, passports or military identification.

3. Provide proof of lien satisfaction. The owner of the lien must provide a letter of lien satisfaction on company letterhead.

4. Submit appropriate fees to the DMV. Each state has varying required fees to replace a title. For example, as of 2011, Texas charges $5.45 and Florida charges $77.75.

5. Give all documents to the DMV or mail them to your local office.

References

• Oregon.gov: Replacing Oregon Titles
• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles: Lost Vehicle Titles
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation: Frequently Asked Questions: Titling and Vehicle Registration
• Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles: FAQs on Getting a Hassle Free Title