Vehicle owners wondering how to get a replacement car title in Tennessee can finalize this transaction through the state Department of Revenue (DOR). The reasons for replacing a title are numerous, such as having a mutilated or illegible document among others. Possessing a valid title certificate is of great importance due to the various uses of this proof of ownership in different vehicle proceedings, including vehicle registrations or title transfers following a selling or buying transaction.

Car owners who are still wondering how to replace a vehicle title and want to learn about the TN lost car title replacement methods can do so by reading the applicable sections below.

When do you need to get a duplicate car title in Tennessee?

The reasons to request a replacement car title in TN are various and vehicle owners can find them listed on the relevant application for a duplicate. The most common reasons for requesting a replacement car title include loss or theft of the original title certificate.

Vehicle owners also have the option to submit a Tennessee replacement car title request in the event their original proof of ownership is mutilated or illegible. Finalizing a duplicate title transaction in due time may not be required by law, but is necessary due to the different official and general uses of this document.

Documents Required When Applying for a Tennessee Car Title Copy

During the process to request a car title replacement, applicants will be required to meet specific criteria such as submitting the applicable paperwork and fee payment to the state DOR. One of the TN requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title is completing and submitting an application. The application must always be accompanied by payment for the applicable fees.

If all lienholders have been discharged from the vehicle, a lien discharge notice will also be necessary. Tennessee replacement car title requests made by applicants other than the vehicle’s owner will require a power of attorney and an identification document.

However, these supporting documents will vary depending on the circumstances. Also, applications made in person will require vehicle owners to present valid proof of identification.

Note: If your motor vehicle still has a lien, the replacement title application for a replacement must originate from the lienholder.

Available Methods for Replacing Your Car Title in Tennessee

The procedure to request a replacement auto title in Tennessee can be initiated by personally going to a county clerk’s office or submitting the appropriate paperwork via mail. Though the requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title are generally the same in both instances, certain differences may apply.

For example, in-person applications for a lost car title replacement require vehicle owners to furnish an acceptable form of identification and a notarized power of attorney form (if necessary) in addition to the relevant replacement title application form, fee payment and lien notice (if applicable).

Note: If you are a lienholder or an out-of-state applicant, you will need to request a duplicate title through the title office of the county clerk of the vehicle owner’s last TN residence.

By Mail

The steps to replace a car title by mail in TN are straightforward and involve the submission of the appropriate documentation and fee payments. Therefore, if you are still wondering how to get a new title if lost via mail, be prepared to meet the following requirements:

• Submit a completed replacement title application
• Pay the set fees.
• Provide proof any lienholders discharged for the vehicle (if necessary).

Note: Title replacements will be mailed to the first lienholder on record if the request for a duplicate title was submitted by a lien.

In Person

The method to replace a lost car title in person in Tennessee generally consists of the same steps that apply to mail-in requests. Applicants requesting a replacement car title will need to personally visit a TN local county clerk’s title office to furnish the relevant paperwork. In addition to the appropriate replacement title application form and fee payment, vehicle owners may also need to present a lien notice, but this will depend on their specific circumstances.

Applicants who choose to replace their title in person must remember to bring proof of identity, such as their driver’s license or U.S. passport. If someone other than the vehicle’s owner makes application for a title replacement, the procedure will require a power of attorney. These requirements are meant to properly identify the applicant who is requesting a car title search and duplicate credential.

How to Fill out the Duplicate Car Title Application in Tennessee

When requesting a duplicate of a TN lost car title, you must submit a properly completed application for a successful transaction. Your application to replace a lost car title at the DMV will need to include specific information, such as the following:

• Owner’s information
• Details about the vehicle in question, such as the vehicle identification number, make, model, year and body
• Lien information (if applicable)
• The exact reason for requesting a duplicate title (a lost auto title, a stolen, mutilated or altered document among others)
• Legal signatures

You must ensure that the details entered on your replacement title application form are true and correct. Otherwise, you may be subject to serious penalties.

Car Title Replacement Fees

In addition to the basic lost car title replacement cost of $11, extra county fees may apply, as well. Prices are subject to change without notice, and payments can be made in the form of cash, check or money order. Note that cash is not an acceptable form of payment for mail-in requests.

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