If you can't find your car title in Colorado, the solution is to apply for a duplicate from the Colorado Department of Revenue's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The process is straightforward but requires specific steps. You'll need to complete a Vehicle Title Application (Form DR 2397), provide proof of identity, and pay a duplicate title fee. If there is a lien on the vehicle, the process involves the lienholder.
The most critical step is ensuring the application is completed correctly. The form requires details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), make, model, and year. You must sign the application, and if the title was originally held by multiple owners, all may need to sign. Acceptable proof of identity includes a Colorado driver's license or ID card.
For a clear overview, here are the key details:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| Governing Agency | Colorado Department of Revenue - Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) |
| Required Form | Vehicle Title Application (Form DR 2397) |
| Primary Fee | $8.90 (Duplicate Title Fee) |
| Processing Time | Typically 7-10 business days after submission |
| In-Person Option | Available at any Colorado county motor vehicle office |
| Lienholder Involvement | Required if a loan on the vehicle is not yet paid off |
You can submit your application by mail or in person at a county motor vehicle office. Mailing your application can take longer, so if you need the title quickly, an in-person visit is more efficient. Remember to check the current fee schedule on the official Colorado DMV website, as costs can change. If there’s a lien, the lienholder must request the duplicate title, so you’ll need to contact them directly to start the process. Keep the receipt from your duplicate title application as temporary proof of ownership while you wait for the new document to arrive.
