How to Replace a Lost Car Title in Delaware
The procedure to replace a lost car title at the DMV in Delaware is typically completed by vehicle owners with missing or damaged title certificates. Since a lost car title often leads to certain inconveniences due to its importance in vehicle-related procedures, drivers must replace when it is no longer in their possession.
For instance, if you do not request a replacement car title when selling or purchasing a vehicle, then you will be unable to properly complete the title transfer and vehicle registration procedures. To find out how to get a replacement car title in DE, read the following sections.
When do you need to get a duplicate car title in Delaware?
Obtaining a copy of a lost vehicle title in Delaware is a procedure that must be initiated with the state Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when you lose or damage your title certificate due to its various official and general uses. For example, failure to request a replacement vehicle title may prevent you from completing certain DMV transactions, such as transferring the vehicle ownership.
A lost car title may also be a hindrance in certain general situations, such as applying for a loan with the motor vehicle in questing presented as collateral. If you are wondering how to replace a stolen car title in DE and whether or not to report the theft to the police, then contact the division to get this information.
Note: Applicants who attempt to request a replacement car title while retaining a valid original title may be penalized. If you retrieve your title certificate after applying for a duplicate, then you will be required to return it to the state DMV.
Documents Required When Applying for a Delaware Car Title Copy
The process to replace a lost vehicle title with the DMV in Delaware can be completed by meeting certain requirements, such as submitting the proper paperwork and paying the applicable fee. The documentation requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title, for instance, generally include a properly filled out replacement title application form and a driving license.
However, depending on the applicant’s circumstances, additional documents may also be required. For example, if a legal representative is applying for a lost auto title copy on behalf of the current owner, then he or she will also have to furnish the corresponding power of attorney form.
Available Methods for Replacing Your Car Title in Delaware
Car owners wondering how to replace a vehicle title in Delaware must note that, while the division typically processes applications for duplicate titles through its various DMV locations, it also processes mailed-in title copy requests. However, when completing the procedure to replace a car title by mail in DE, applicants will be limited to the type of payment, such as a check or money order. Residents cannot replace a car title online at this time.
By Mail
The most convenient method to request a replacement vehicle title in Delaware is to submit your application packet by mail to the corresponding DMV office. Prior to initiating the process to replace a vehicle title by mail, ensure that you have collected the necessary items, such as the fee payment and the paperwork that applies to your circumstances.
After filling out the replacement title application form, enclose it in a self-addressed envelope along with the fee payment and mail it to the division’s titling unit in Dover. If you are applying as an individual, then you will also be required to include a copy of your driver’s license.
In Person
The option to replace a lost car title in person in Delaware can be utilized through any DMV site within the state that processes title requests. Note that, when completing the procedure to replace a lost vehicle title at the DMV, you will not be required to meet any special requirements.
Therefore, you can successfully finalize the procedure to obtain a duplicate title in person at the titling office by filling out the request form, submitting the supporting documents and paying the applicable cost. If a lien is recorded on the title, then the lienholder will be required to complete a certain section of the application form as well, in order for the DMV to conduct a proper car title search.
How to Fill out the Duplicate Car Title Application in Delaware
Before submitting the application for a Delaware lost car title replacement, vehicle owners must ensure that the DMV Application for a Duplicate Title is properly filled out and contains accurate data. The application form needed to replace a lost car title with the DMV in DE will require the applicant to provide the following types of information:
- The vehicle license plate number and expiration date
- The current odometer reading of the vehicle in question
- The vehicle identification number, make, year, color and body style
- The owners’ personal data, such as name and address
- The signatures and driving license numbers of the vehicle owners or the legal representative applying on behalf of the owner
- Lien information if applicable
Note: By filling out the replacement title application form, car owners also certify that the information contained within is true and correct.
Delaware Car Title Replacement Fees
An important step in how to apply for a car title replacement is submitting payment for the duplicate title certificate cost of $50. Moreover, if you are applying by mail, then you may also be required to pay a specific postage fee.
Car Title Replacement Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Procedures for Processing a Duplicate Title from DE.gov