Replacing a Lost Car Title

A car title is necessary for any transfer of ownership, for example, in case you want to sell your car. Even if you don’t plan on selling it or transferring it to another owner, a car title is a very important document that you need to have readily available. If you lose the title or someone steals it, you'll have to order a duplicate auto title from the Department of Motor Vehicle’s office closest to you.

To find the location of a DMV office closest to you, use this DMV.org link.

You’ll Need a Duplicate Title

It’s most likely that you’ll have to fill out a duplicate title application and pay a fee so that the DMV can process a duplicate title. Obtaining an application form can be done in several ways. In most states, with the help of the internet, it’s possible to visit your state’s DMV website and print a copy of the application. If you don’t have access to the internet, it’s also possible that the DMV office could send you an application form by mail, if you call the DMV phone number. Finally, the most common way to get the application is to simply visit a DMV office.

Present These Documents

Don’t forget to find out what documents are necessary to submit to the DMV office. Otherwise, it’s possible that your visit to the DMV could be a waste of your time. Typically, most states usually ask that you present some form of personal identification along with the vehicle's documentation, such as the registration. Also, the fees to replace a car title vary from state to state.

Each State has Different Rules

For example, in Arizona, here is the application that needs to be filled out and delivered to the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division. You also need to present a driver's license or state identification card, and deliver the $ 4 payment for the duplicate title fee.

In California, however, the application you’ll need to fill out, is a little different. To deliver it in person, you'll have to schedule an appointment with the DMV, and don’t forget to bring your driver's license. The basic charge to process the replacement is $20, but it can change depending on the type of car you own.

In the case of Florida, in addition to filling out the duplicate title application for replacement, you’ll need to provide an odometer disclosure statement, provide a driver's license or state identification card, and you’ll need to pay the title fee of $ 75.25.

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires that this application is completed to process the replacement of the vehicle title. To deliver it in person at the DMV office, you’ll have to pay a $5.45 fee along with a form of identification, such as a driver's license.

Destroy the Old Title

After the title of the replaced car is delivered, if for some reason the old title is found again, you simply have to destroy it, since it’s no longer considered valid.

Having to deal with the complications of losing a car title can be stressful, but it’s part of the responsibilities of every driver. Also, make sure you have a team of reliable people at your service, when driving your vehicle. Call an Infinity agent at 1-800-INFINITY or get an online quote today.