
You typically get a car title from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent agency, such as the Secretary of State. The exact process depends on your specific situation: buying a new car from a dealer, purchasing a used car from a private seller, or needing a replacement for a lost title. The title, also known as a pink slip, is the official legal document that proves ownership of a vehicle.
If you're buying a new car, the dealership will handle most of the paperwork. They will submit the necessary documents to the DMV on your behalf. After the sale is finalized, the DMV will mail the title directly to your address on file. This process can take a few weeks.
For a used car purchase from a private party, the seller must provide you with the signed-over title. You'll take this title, along with a completed application for title transfer, to your local DMV office. You'll need to pay the required taxes and fees to receive a new title in your name.
If your title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must apply for a duplicate. This is done by submitting a specific form (often available online) to your state's DMV, usually with a fee. Some states allow for online applications, while others require a mailed form or an in-person visit.
The requirements and fees vary significantly by state. Here is a sample of the diversity in processes and costs:
| State | Agency Name | Duplicate Title Fee | Online Application Available? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) | $23 | Yes | Lienholder signature may be required. |
| Texas | Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) | $5.45 | Yes | Must be submitted to the county tax office. |
| Florida | Department of Highway Safety (FLHSMV) | $75.25 | Yes | Fee is higher if a lien is recorded. |
| New York | Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) | $20 | No | Form MV-902 must be mailed or submitted in person. |
| Illinois | Secretary of State | $95 | Yes | Standard duplicate title fee. |
| Colorado | Department of Revenue (DMV) | $8.60 | Yes | Fee varies by county. |
It's always best to check your local DMV's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information specific to your circumstances.

Check your glove compartment or a safe place at home—you might already have it! If you just bought a car, the dealer probably mailed it to you. If it's lost, go to your state's DMV website. You can usually request a replacement online for a small fee. It's a lot easier than dealing with the office in person. Just have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number ready.

As someone who just went through selling a car privately, the title is everything. I made sure I had the physical, clean title in hand before I even listed the vehicle. When we agreed on a price, we both went to the DMV together to handle the transfer. This ensured the title was signed over correctly and protected both of us. It avoided any potential headaches or liability issues for me after the sale was complete. The DMV clerk verified everything was in order right there.

The source is always your state's motor vehicle agency. The critical factor is whether there's an outstanding loan. If you financed the car, the lender (the lienholder) holds the title until you pay off the loan. Once the final payment is made, they are legally required to send you the title or a release document. You then use that release to get a clean title from the DMV. If you own the car outright, you should have received the title at the time of purchase.


