Your car title number, also known as the title document number, is located on the certificate of title itself. This unique serial number is assigned by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and is the primary identifier for your vehicle's ownership record. The most reliable way to find it is to check your physical car title certificate, which you should have received when you purchased the vehicle or paid off your auto loan.
If you don't have the physical title on hand, there are several other documents where you can typically find this number. Check your vehicle registration card or your loan or lease agreement if you haven't yet received the title. Some insurance documents may also list it. You can also contact your local DMV; they can provide the number, but you will need to verify your identity and ownership, which may require your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), license plate number, and personal details.
The format of the title number varies by state. It can be a combination of numbers and letters. Knowing the exact location on the document is key, as it's often found in a prominent field labeled "Title Number," "Document Number," or "Title Doc. No."
| State | Typical Title Number Location on Document | Format Example |
|---|
| California | Top section, near the VIN | Alphanumeric (e.g., C1234567890) |
| Texas | Clearly marked box, often near owner info | 8-digit number |
| Florida | Labeled "Title Number" or "Document Number" | 8-10 digit number |
| New York | Top-right corner or next to the issue date | Alphanumeric sequence |
| Illinois | Section 2, labeled "Title Number" | 7-8 digit number |
If your title is lost, you will need to apply for a duplicate from your state DMV, which involves submitting a form and paying a fee. The process and cost for a replacement vary by state.
