The fastest way to get a duplicate car title in Texas is by applying in person at your county tax office, which provides the title the same day if you have all the correct paperwork. The entire process involves completing Form VTR-34, providing proof of identity and ownership, paying the applicable fee, and submitting everything to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) either by mail, online (if eligible), or in person. Your first step is to complete the Application for Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34). You must provide specific details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), license plate number, year, make, and model. The application requires a notarized signature to prevent fraud. You'll need to provide proof of identity, such as a Texas driver's license, and proof of ownership. While the TxDMV can often verify ownership electronically, having a registration receipt or a previous title application copy is helpful. The current fee for a duplicate title is $5.45. The processing time varies significantly by method: | Submission Method | Estimated Processing Time | Key Requirement | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | In-Person at County Tax Office | Same Day (if approved) | Must bring all documents and payment | | Online via TxDMV Portal | 2-3 Weeks | Must be the registered owner with a matching profile | | Mail to TxDMV Headquarters | 4-6 Weeks | Risk of documents being lost or delayed | If there's a lienholder on the original title, you must contact them first. They might hold the title and are required to assist you in obtaining a duplicate. For vehicles over 25 years old, you have the option to apply for a Title Only, which can simplify the process if you don't plan to drive the vehicle on public roads. Ensure all information on the VTR-34 form is accurate to avoid rejection. Double-check the VIN against your vehicle's dashboard or doorjamb sticker. After receiving your duplicate title, store it in a secure location, like a fireproof safe, separate from the vehicle.
