You can get a duplicate car title in Pennsylvania by applying through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The primary method is to submit Form MV-38O, the "Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title," either by mail to the address on the form or in person at your local PennDOT County Treasurer or Tag Agent office. If there is an active lien on the vehicle, the lienholder must apply for the duplicate. The standard fee is $67, and processing typically takes 7-10 business days for mail-in applications.
The most critical step is ensuring your application is complete to avoid delays. You'll need to provide:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN).
- The license plate number.
- Your personal information as the titled owner.
- A clear reason for requesting the duplicate (e.g., lost, stolen, mutilated).
The form must be notarized if you are mailing it. If you need the title quickly, an in-person visit to a PennDOT office that offers on-the-spot processing is your best bet, though this service may have an additional fee. Always check the PennDOT website for the most current form version and fee schedule before applying.
| Application Method | Estimated Processing Time | Fee (Standard Passenger Vehicle) | Key Requirement |
|---|
| Mail-in | 7-10 business days | $67 | Notarized Form MV-38O |
| In-Person (Standard) | 7-10 business days | $67 | Completed Form MV-38O |
| In-Person (Expedited) | Often same-day | $67 + additional fee | Varies by office availability |
| Online/Third-Party Service | Varies by service | $67 + service fee | Not available for all situations |
