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Duplicate title

A replacement title issued by the state when the original is lost, stolen or damaged.

Full guide: How to get a duplicate car title

A duplicate title is a replacement for a lost, stolen or damaged certificate of title. Only the owner of record, or someone with legal authority, can request one. Texas calls it a certified copy of title.

When you want to junk a car and can’t find the title, getting a duplicate is usually the cleanest fix, because most buyers need a signed title. Apply early, since processing can take weeks.

A recorded lien can block or slow the request. Texas requires an original release of lien if a lien is still on record, does not accept a fax or photocopy, and imposes a 30-day wait after the last certified copy was issued.1 New Jersey notes that requesting a duplicate by mail can take 8 to 12 weeks.2

References

  1. Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, “Get a Copy of Your Vehicle Title”, https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/buying-or-selling-a-vehicle/get-a-copy-of-your-title ↩

  2. New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “Duplicate Title”, https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicles/duptitle.htm ↩

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