how to order a title for a car

[AliviaRose]

Ordering a replacement car title, officially called a duplicate certificate of title, is a straightforward process handled by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. You typically need to complete an application form, provide proof of identity, and pay a fee. The exact requirements and available methods (online, mail, or in-person) vary significantly by state. If there's an outstanding loan, the lienholder's information is required.

The most common reason for needing a duplicate title is because the original was lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition. You might also need to order one if you’ve purchased a vehicle and the seller lost the title, or if you’ve recently paid off a car loan and need to obtain the title free of the lienholder's name.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Identify Your State's DMV Requirements: Start by visiting the official website of your state's DMV. This is the most authoritative source for the correct forms, fees, and specific instructions.
2. Complete the Application: Look for the "Duplicate Title" or "Replacement Title" application form (e.g., Form MV-900 in New York or Form REG 227 in California). You will need the vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), license plate number, year, make, and model.
3. Provide Proof of Identity: You must prove you are the legal owner listed on the title. A driver's license or state ID is standard.
4. Pay the Fee: Title replacement fees are generally low but vary. Payment methods accepted (credit card, check, money order) depend on how you apply.
5. Submit Your Application: Depending on your state, you may be able to apply online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Some states require all owners listed on the title to sign the application.

If there is a lienholder (a bank or credit union that financed the car), they are the legal owner until the loan is paid off. You must contact them to request a duplicate title. Once the loan is satisfied, they will sign the title over to you.

State	Agency	Standard Fee (Approx.)	Online Application?	Typical Processing Time
California	DMV	$23	Yes	2-3 weeks
Texas	DMV	$5.45	No (Mail/In-Person)	2-3 weeks
Florida	HSMV	$75.25	Yes	3-4 weeks
New York	DMV	$20	Varies by County	4-6 weeks
Illinois	SOS	$95	Yes	2-3 weeks

[BriannaMarie]

Just go to your state's DMV website. Search for "duplicate title" or "replacement title," and you'll find the form. Fill it out with your car's info and your driver's license number, pay the fee online if possible, and mail it in or drop it off. It’s a hassle, but it’s usually not complicated. The worst part is the waiting; it can take a few weeks for the new title to arrive in the mail.

[KyleMarie]

I had to do this last year after I spilled coffee all over my title. It was a mess. I went down to the local DMV office with my license and registration. The form was simple—just the car's VIN and my info. The clerk was helpful, and I paid about twenty bucks. It showed up in the mail three weeks later. My advice? Keep your title in a safe place to begin with, but if you need a new one, just gather your paperwork and get it done.

[Cameron]

The key factor is whether there is a lien on the vehicle. If you own the car outright, you, as the titled owner, can apply directly with the DMV. However, if you are still making payments, the lender (lienholder) holds the title. You cannot order a duplicate yourself. You must contact your lender's titles department, request they apply for a duplicate, and they will handle the process. This can add significant time, so plan accordingly if you're trying to sell a car with a loan.