📄 How to Request a Duplicate Title: Step-by-Step Guide

If your vehicle title is lost, stolen, damaged, or illegible, you’ll need to request a duplicate title from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). A duplicate title is an official replacement that has the same legal value as the original and is marked DUPLICATE  for reference.

This guide will walk you through:

✅ What a duplicate title is
✅ When you need one
✅ How to request it — online, by mail, or in person
✅ Required documents & fees
✅ State-specific links and forms

🔍 What Is a Duplicate Title?

A duplicate title is an official copy of your vehicle’s original title issued when the original can no longer be used due to:

• Loss
• Theft
• Damage
• Illegibility

It contains the same information as the original and is fully valid for:

• Selling your car
• Transferring ownership
• Registering your vehicle
• Getting insurance
• Paying off a lien

A duplicate title does not expire and remains valid until transferred or replaced.

✅ When You Should Request a Duplicate Title

You should request a duplicate title if:

🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Request a Duplicate Title

1. Get the Correct Form

Each state has its form for requesting a duplicate title. Here are some common ones:

🔎 Just search:

[Your State] DMV duplicate title request form

2. Gather Required Documents

Most states require the following:

3. Pay the Fee

Fees vary by state but generally range from $10–$50+.

4. Submit Your Request

You have several options depending on your state:

✅ Option 1: Online Submission

Many states offer fast online services:

Processing time: Usually 3–7 business days.

📬 Option 2: Mail-In Application

Download and print the form, then mail it along with:

• Copy of government ID
• Payment (check or money order)
• Any additional paperwork required

Processing time: 2–4 weeks on average.

👤 Option 3: In Person at a Local DMV Office

Find your nearest DMV office using:

• California DMV Locations
• Texas DMV Offices
• Florida DMV Offices
• New York DMV Offices
• Illinois Secretary of State Offices

Bring:

• Completed & signed form
• Government ID
• Payment (cash, check, or credit card)
• Any supporting documents

Some states allow immediate pickup of your duplicate title when done in person.

5. Receive Your Duplicate Title

Once processed, your new title will be mailed to you.

The new title will typically be labeled “DUPLICATE” and is just as valid as the original.

📋 Sample: How to Fill Out a Duplicate Title Request Form (California REG 227)

Here’s how to complete the form correctly:

⚠️ Important Tips

🧑‍⚖️ Legal Implications

Using or altering a vehicle title illegally is considered vehicle fraud and can lead to:

• Fines
• Jail time
• License suspension
• Vehicle seizure

Always use legitimate DMV processes when requesting or transferring a title.