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How to Replace Your Car Registration in Tennessee
Having a lost car registration in Tennessee can be a major problem if you are a vehicle owner in the state. Generally, registration certificates are important legal documents that are used for a variety of purposes. For example, you may be asked to present proof of your registration to law enforcement authorities. Thus, replacing lost car registration papers is an important procedure can be completed through different methods.
To get a copy of a vehicle registration in TN, you will need to prepare different documents and follow certain steps. Overall, the Department of Revenue (DOR) is responsible for all vehicle-related credentials in the state. Therefore, you will need to follow their instructions carefully in order to get the replacement documents. This article covers the process of getting a DMV copy of registration through the Tennessee DOR.
When do you need to get a copy of your vehicle registration in Tennessee?
You may need to replace a car registration in Tennessee for a variety of reasons. For instance, you may need to get a duplicate document from the DOR if your original registration has been:
- Damaged
- Destroyed
- Stolen
- Lost
If you have a DMV lost registration in TN, you need to request a replacement credential. The most common use of a car registration is providing it to a police officer after you have been pulled over, in order to prove that your vehicle has maintained the proper insurance coverage and has all property taxes paid for. Some of the other uses for a DMV copy of registration include:
- Selling a car inside or especially outside of Tennessee without needing to worry about obtaining additional paperwork.
- Moving to a new state and needing to re-title and register your vehicle with a new DMV.
- Being asked for your driving documents for the purpose of a police investigation, court case or other legal proceeding.
How to Obtain a Replacement Vehicle Registration in Tennessee
In order to get a DMV registration replacement in Tennessee, you will need to provide certain information. Each of the methods of application detailed below may be right for different motorists with varying needs. While you cannot get a copy of a vehicle registration online in TN, the DOR offers this procedure by mail and in person.
How to Replace a Vehicle Registration by Mail
Getting a TN replacement vehicle registration by mail is one of the most popular methods of application in the state, as it allows car owners to get these credentials without having to wait in lines. In order to use this mail-in method, you will need to prepare the following information:
- Your license plate number
- Your vehicle identification number (VIN)
- A check or money order
Then, once all of the proper information has been compiled, you can mail your application to your local county clerk’s office.
How to Replace a Vehicle Registration in Person
You can also get a DMV duplicate registration in Tennessee by visiting your nearest county clerk office in person and providing the same information listed above. This method is often preferred by applicants who wish to get their replacement documents sooner, as delivery and processing times are much shorter in person.
Depending on the county where you reside, your DOR office may require you to schedule an appointment in order to submit this information. However, many counties allow walk-ins as well.
Tennessee Stolen Car Registration Requirements
There are many potential consequences to having a stolen car registration in Tennessee. For instance, identity thieves can target registration certificates and license plates and use them to steal your personal information. As such, in the event that your documents have been stolen, it is critical for you to contact local law enforcement authorities and report the crime.
Tennessee DMV Sticker Replacement
You will also get a TN DMV sticker replacement when completing the process to get a duplicate registration card in the state. Your vehicle tag sticker, which is placed on the windshield of a car, is an important part of proving that your vehicle is registered properly in the state. If you are getting a new registration document, you will also be given a new sticker in the mail or in person.
Additionally, if you only have a lost car registration sticker, you can simply fill out the “Application for Replacement Decal” form that is provided by the DOR. Making sure that your sticker is up-to-date and matches your current registration is crucial if you wish to be a legal driver in Tennessee.
Tennessee Vehicle Registration Replacement Fees
When you apply to get a copy of a car registration in Tennessee, you will be required to pay for the applicable service fees. As previously mentioned, there is a base fee of $3 that comes with this process in the state, which is used to cover processing costs for the DOR.
In addition, there is an extra $0.50 charge for a TN car registration replacement that needs certification, which covers miscellaneous printing costs.
Tennessee Vehicle Registration Replacement Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- Duplicate Registration from TN.gov