Yes, in many states you can get a duplicate car title the same day if you apply in person at your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or a similar vehicle licensing agency and the office offers expedited service. However, this is highly dependent on your specific state's procedures, office workload, and whether you have all the required documentation prepared correctly.
The key to a same-day title is being fully prepared. You will typically need:
- A completed application for a duplicate title (often Form MV-900 or a state-specific equivalent).
- Your current driver's license or state ID for proof of identity.
- The vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Payment for the duplicate title fee, which varies by state.
Some states have a mandatory waiting period or may mail the title, even for in-person applications, which can take several days or weeks. If there is a lienholder (a bank or credit union that holds the loan), the process becomes more complex. The lienholder's information must be correctly listed, and they may need to be involved in the request.
| State | Same-Day In-Person Service Available? | Standard Processing Time (if not same-day) | Approximate Fee |
|---|
| California | No, titles are mailed from a central facility. | 4-6 weeks | $23 |
| Texas | Yes, at some county tax assessor-collector offices. | Varies by office; some print on the spot. | $5.45 |
| Florida | Yes, at certain county tax collector or DMV service centers. | Often printed while you wait if eligible. | $75.25 |
| New York | No, titles are mailed from the central DMV. | 7-10 business days | $20 |
| Arizona | Yes, at Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) offices with title printing. | Often immediate if no issues. | $4 |
Your best course of action is to check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm their specific capabilities, required forms, and acceptable payment methods before you make the trip.
