Yes, you can sell your car if you've lost the title, but you cannot complete the sale without a valid replacement document. The process is straightforward and involves applying for a duplicate title from your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent state agency. The key is to initiate this process well before you plan to sell the car, as it can take several days or weeks to receive the new title.
Your first and most critical step is to visit your state's DMV website to understand the specific requirements. While the core process is similar across the U.S., fees, forms, and processing times vary significantly by state. You will typically need to complete a specific application for a duplicate title (often Form MV-902 or something similar), present proof of your identity (like a driver's license), provide the vehicle's identification number (VIN), and pay a nominal fee, usually between $2 and $20.
Some states offer online applications for faster service, while others require an in-person visit or mailing of documents. If you have an outstanding loan on the car, the lienholder (the bank) holds the title. You'll need to contact them directly for instructions on how to proceed, as they are the legal owners until the loan is paid off.
Once you receive the duplicate title, the sale proceeds like any other. You and the buyer will sign the title, and you should complete a bill of sale for your records. It is absolutely essential to report the sale to the DMV to absolve yourself of any future liability for parking tickets or accidents involving the car you no longer own. Selling a car with a "lost title" that you never replace is illegal and considered selling a car "without a title," which can lead to legal trouble and will make the vehicle impossible for the new owner to register.
| State DMV | Typical Duplicate Title Fee | Common Processing Time (Mail/In-Person) | Online Application Available? |
|---|
| California | $23 | 2-3 weeks | Yes |
| Texas | $2 | 2-3 weeks | Yes |
| Florida | $9.25 | 5-10 business days | Yes |
| New York | $20 | Varies by county | No (must mail or visit) |
| Illinois | $95 | 15-20 business days | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | $22 | 15 business days | Yes |
