Replacing a Lost Title in California

How to get a duplicate title with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):

  • Complete an Application for Duplicate Title (Form REG 227).
  • Pay the $27 duplicate title fee.
  • Return the application to the CA DMV by mail or in person.

Read on for more lost title details.

Looking for your title's mailing status?

Already applied for your duplicate title? To get an update on your document, head to our Status Check page, select "California," and choose your method of contact to get in touch with the CA DMV.

Applying for a Duplicate CA Title

You can submit your request for a duplicate vehicle title by mail or in person at your local CA DMV office. You'll need to:

  • Download, print, and complete the Application for Duplicate Title Form (Form REG 227).
    • Keep in mind, though, that the true/legal owner must sign the form and have it notarized.
    • When filling out the application do not forget to include:
      • Owner's full name.
      • Owner's current address.
      • Owner's driver license number.
      • Vehicle's license plate number.
      • Signature to the statement of facts about what happened to the title.
      • Damaged title, if applicable.

You can also use this form for paperless title certification, transfer of title with duplicate title, or a transfer of title with paperless title.

How to Submit a Duplicate Title Application in California

The thought of going to your local DMV is as stressful as the process for a replacement a lost Title itself. The California DMV allows for three options.

You can replace your California Title:

  • Online
  • By mail.
  • In person.

We’ve detailed each step for you below.

By Mail:

You may submit the duplicate title application by mail at:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Registration Operations
P.O. Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269

In Person:

Alternatively, you may also apply in person by making an appointment at a nearby DMV, but don't forget to take your California driver license.

Application Fees

The duplicate title fee is $27, but this will vary with type of vehicle and is subject to change.

Refer to the related registration fees if you need to replace a lost title for a boat or other vessel.

Name Change/Correction on Your Vehicle Title

NOTE: If your name is hyphenated or has multiple words, it will show as one word on your title. This is not an error and will not require a name correction.

When you change your name due to marriage or divorce, or if the name on your title is misspelled, you may need to updated the name on your motor vehicle record.

To submit your request for a name change with the CA DMV, you must:

  • Present your CA Certificate of Title.
    • Your correct name must be printed or typed above the incorrect name.
  • Complete a Name Statement in Section F of the Statements of Facts (Form REG 256).
    • You'll need to indicate the reason for the name change and your signature.
    • If there is a lien on your vehicle, present this form to the lienholder directly. They'll need to handle the process for you.
  • Fill out an Application for Duplicate Title Form (Form REG 227), if the title is lost, stolen or mutilated.
  • Submit your application in person at any DMV office or by mail to:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Registration Operations
P.O. Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269

There are no fees for a name change or correction. However, if you're applying for a duplicate title, you'll need to pay the duplicate title fee. See "The Application Fees" above for more details.

Forms

REG 227
Application For Duplicate or Paperless Title
Complete this form to request a duplicate CA title OR paperless title, which you can use while transferring ownership of a vehicle.
REG 256
Statement of Facts
You can use this form to provide additional information for other California DMV forms OR to correct information on existing CA DMV documents.
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