To replace a lost title in Wisconsin, submit Form MV2119 to the Wisconsin DMV online, by mail, or in person. The $20 replacement fee is consistent across methods, but applying online through the DMV’s official portal is the fastest, typically resulting in a new title arriving by mail within 7-10 business days.
You must be the vehicle owner, a verified lienholder, or a surviving spouse to apply. The process is straightforward if you have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security Number ready.
| Method | Key Steps & Requirements | Estimated Processing & Mailing Time |
|---|
| Online (Recommended) | Use the Wisconsin DMV’s online service portal. Requires VIN, owner’s DOB, and SSN last 4 digits. You can also update your address during this process. | Fastest. Title printed and mailed within 7-10 business days. |
| By Mail | Complete Form MV2119, include a check or money order for $20, and mail to the address on the form. | Slower. Add mail transit time to and from the DMV to the 7-10 day processing window. |
| In Person | Visit a Wisconsin DMV Customer Service Center with a completed MV2119 and payment. Third-party agents can also process this but may charge additional service fees. | Varies. Title is still printed centrally and mailed, but submission is immediate. |
If there is an outstanding loan or lien on the vehicle, state law requires the replacement title to be sent directly to the lienholder, not to you. This is a standard security measure. For a stolen title, the process is identical to replacing a lost one; a police report is not mandatory for the DMV but is wise for your own records.
The total cost is primarily the $20 title fee. If applying at a third-party service center, expect an additional service fee. There are no late fees for replacing a title, but you cannot legally sell or transfer the vehicle without it.
