If a title is lost or destroyed, you may obtain a certified copy of title by following the steps below. If a lien is recorded, the lienholder should complete an application for certified copy of title, or provide you with an original release of lien. There is a 30-day waiting period to apply for a certified copy of title after the last one was issued.
Note: A lien that has been paid off may still be recorded on the title. If that is the case, an original release of lien from the lienholder is required. A fax or photocopy is not acceptable.
Apply By Mail
Here are the steps to apply for a certified copy of title by mail:
- Complete the Application for a Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34)
All recorded owners must sign the form. Enclose a copy of the photo ID for all owners and $2 mail-in fee by check, cashier’s check or money order payable to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. An agent of the owner or lienholder must also provide a letter of signature authority on original letterhead, a business card or a copy of the agent's employee ID. An original release of lien letter is required if a lien is still on record. - Mail the application to:
Mailing Address
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
1601 Southwest Parkway, Suite A
Wichita Falls, TX 76302
Apply in Person
Here are the steps to apply for a certified copy in person:
- TxDMV Regional Service Centers ENCOURAGE you have an appointment.
- Visit the nearest TxDMV regional service center.
- Complete the Application for a Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34). NOTE: All recorded owners must sign the form and provide photo ID (or a copy) at time of application.
- Provide a valid photo ID and $5.45 fee by check, cash or money order (no debit or credit card accepted). An agent of the owner or lienholder must also provide a letter of signature authority on original letterhead, a business card or a copy of the agent's employee ID. An original release of lien letter is required if a lien is still on record.
Special Situations
Vehicle Titled in the Name of a Business
If the motor vehicle is titled in the name of a business, government entity, leasing company, lienholder or organization, in addition to acceptable identification, an original business card of the agent or authorization on company letterhead matching the identification of the employee or agent is required. This authorization letter must be signed by someone other than the agent signing for the applicant.
Vehicle Titled in the Name of a Trust
If the motor vehicle is titled in the name of a trust, then the current identification of the trustee making the application must be presented. In order to identify the trustee(s) authorized to sign, the application should also be supported by one of the following:
- Affidavit of Trust,
- Statement of Fact for a Trust, or
- Original or certified copy of the trust agreement.
If the title application is signed with a Power of Attorney, in addition to the requirements above, the following must also be provided:
- Current identification matching the person or employee of the entity named as power of attorney,
- Acceptable current identification of the owner(s) or lienholder, and,
- If provided to a business, an original business card or authorization written on the letterhead of an entity named as power of attorney that matches the identification of the employee.
NOTE: Businesses given power of attorney are required to provide a letter of signature authority on original letterhead, business card or a copy of employee ID.
More Information
If you have other questions regarding lost or destroyed titles, call us at (888) 368-4689 or (512) 465-3000.