Car Title Steps

Texas · Lost title

Not a government website. Not legal advice.

How to replace a lost car title in Texas

For car owners in Texas whose title is missing or too damaged to use, including sellers who can't find it. TxDMV calls this a certified copy of title.

To replace a lost car title in Texas, apply for a certified copy of title with Form VTR-34. All recorded owners sign it and show photo ID. Apply by mail to TxDMV for $2 or in person at a TxDMV Regional Service Center for $5.45. If a lien is recorded, the lienholder applies or gives you a release.

Who can apply for a replacement title in Texas?

  • All recorded owners sign the form and give photo ID.
  • If a lien is recorded, the lienholder applies, or gives you an original release of lien.
  • You must wait 30 days after the last copy was issued before you apply again.
Source for this list:txdmv.gov checked

How do I replace a lost car title in Texas?

  1. Step 1

    Fill out Form VTR-34.

    This is the Application for a Certified Copy of Title. All recorded owners must sign it.

    Form VTR-34 · Application for a Certified Copy of Title
  2. Step 2

    Mail it with a copy of each owner's photo ID and the $2 fee.

    Pay by check, cashier's check or money order to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

  3. Step 3

    Or apply in person at a TxDMV Regional Service Center.

    Bring valid photo ID and the $5.45 fee. TxDMV encourages an appointment.

Source for these steps:txdmv.gov checked

How much does a replacement title cost in Texas?

Fees in Texas (you pay one, depending on how you apply)
FeeAmountWho paysSource
Certified copy by mail$2Ownertxdmv.gov Checked
Certified copy in person$5.45Ownertxdmv.gov Checked

Fees can change. Check the official page before you pay.

Common questions

How much does a certified copy of a Texas title cost?

$2 by mail to TxDMV, or $5.45 in person at a TxDMV Regional Service Center.

txdmv.gov checked

Who can apply for a certified copy of title in Texas?

All recorded owners sign Form VTR-34 and give photo ID. If a lien is recorded, the lienholder applies, or gives you an original release of lien.

txdmv.gov checked

Can I apply again if the copy gets lost?

You must wait 30 days after the last copy was issued before you apply again.

txdmv.gov checked

Sources for this page

Related guides