How to Get a Lost Car Title in Texas in 5 Easy Steps

Are you dealing with a lost car title? You might have misplaced it during a move or lost it in paperwork clutter. The good news is that getting a replacement title is simple when you follow the right steps.
This guide is for Texas vehicle owners and dealers who need a duplicate title or a bonded title. TMD Surety Bonds provides title bonds when you need a Texas bonded title.

TL;DR

• Complete Form VTR-34 to get a duplicate title if your name is already on record with TxDMV.
• Pay $2 by mail or $5.45 in person at a TxDMV Regional Service Center for same-day service.
• You need a Texas bonded title if you bought a vehicle but never received the title or cannot contact the seller.
• Bonded titles cost $100-$400+ and require a surety bond worth 1.5 times your vehicle’s value.
• Start your Texas bonded title application process with TMD Surety Bonds.

How to Replace a Lost Car Title in Texas

This process works when your name is already on record with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. You simply need a certified copy of the existing title. The steps below guide you through Form VTR-34 and the required documents.

If you never received a title in your name or your paperwork is incomplete, skip to the When You Need a Texas Bonded Title section below.

 

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

You can apply for a certified copy if the vehicle is already titled in Texas in your name or a lienholder’s name. Check for these issues before you start.

1. Confirm you did not receive a title within 30 days. TxDMV requires a waiting period between duplicate requests.
2. Check if a lien appears on the title record. If a lien shows on file, the lienholder must apply for the duplicate. You cannot do it yourself while a lien is active. Call TxDMV at (888) 368-4689 to verify lien status before moving forward.
3. Make sure all recorded owners sign the application. Joint ownership requires both signatures on Form VTR-34.

If the title is in the name of a trust or a business, you need extra documentation. Trust-owned titles require a certified copy of the trust agreement showing your authority.

Business-owned titles require an original business card or letter on company letterhead. The letter must be signed by someone other than the person submitting the request.

Step 2: Complete Form VTR-34

Form VTR-34 is the Application for a Certified Copy of Title. You can download it from the TxDMV website.

Fill in your vehicle’s VIN exactly as it appears on your registration. One wrong digit causes rejection. Add the year, make, model, and current odometer reading.

Enter the current address for all recorded owners. All owners must sign the form before you submit it.

Step 3: Gather Texas ID and Lien Documents

You need a valid photo ID for all recorded owners. Acceptable forms include a driver license, state ID, U.S. or foreign passport, military ID, or Texas Handgun License. You can use an ID from any state, even if it expired within the last 12 months.

If a lien shows on TxDMV records, you must provide an original release of lien on the lienholder’s letterhead. Photocopies and scanned documents are not accepted. Liens older than 10 years may not require release documentation.

Step 4: Apply by Mail or In Person

You have two ways to submit your application. You can mail Form VTR-34 and your documents to the TxDMV office in Wichita Falls. You can also visit a TxDMV Regional Service Center in person.

In-person visits at regional centers often allow same-day title issuance. Mail applications take longer but cost less. The Where to Apply for a Lost Title in Texas section below gives full details on both options.

Step 5: Pay the Texas Title Fee

The duplicate title fee is $2 by mail or $5.45 in person. Make your check or money order payable to “Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.”

Mail applications accept only personal checks, cashier’s checks, or money orders. Cash, credit cards, and debit cards are not allowed by mail. In-person visits at regional centers accept cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards with a convenience fee.

Always confirm current fees on the TxDMV website before you apply.

Step 6: Watch for Your Certified Copy of the Title

In-person applicants receive their certified vehicle title copy the same day. Mail applicants should expect 10 to 15 business days for processing. Some mail applications can take up to 120 days during high-volume periods.

TxDMV mails your certified copy to the address you listed on Form VTR-34. f a lien appears on the title, TxDMV sends it to the owner or lienholder on record. Contact the TxDMV if your title does not arrive within a reasonable time.

Not eligible for a duplicate title? Get a Texas title bond from TMD Surety Bonds.

Discover More: What Happens if You Lose the Title to Your Car in Texas?

What You Need Before You Apply in Texas

Gather these items before you visit TxDMV or mail your application. Having everything ready saves time and prevents rejection.

Your pre-application checklist:

• Proof you are a Texas resident or military stationed in Texas. If you just moved to Texas, you have 30 days to title and register your vehicle.
• Valid photo ID that matches your current name and address. Your ID must show the exact name recorded on the title or you will face delays.
• Knowledge of any liens still on record. Contact the TxDMV to check lien status before you apply. Even paid-off loans can show active liens if the lender never filed a release.
• Confirmation your vehicle is not junk or non-repairable. Texas cannot issue titles for vehicles classified as junk, non-repairable, or stolen under state law.
• Notarized power of attorney if you apply for another person. The document must authorize you to handle title matters.

Check these items now. You cannot fix most problems after you submit your lost car title documents.

Where to Apply for a Lost Title in Texas

You have three ways to get your replacement title in Texas. Choose the option that fits your timeline and location.

When to Apply by Mail

Mail your completed Application for Texas Title (Form VTR-34) to the TxDMV office in Wichita Falls. You need to submit copies of your photo ID, the original lien release if needed, and a $2 check or money order.

Send everything to:

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
1601 Southwest Parkway, Suite A
Wichita Falls, TX 76302

Processing takes 10 to 15 business days. Some applications take up to 120 days during busy periods. You cannot track your application status online.

When to Apply in Person

Visit a TxDMV Regional Service Center for same-day service. Bring your completed Form VTR-34, photo ID, original lien release if needed, and a $5.45 payment.

Schedule an appointment first at the TxDMV Regional Service Center appointment system. Walk-in service is available, but appointments get priority. You leave with your certified copy the same day if your documents are complete.

Note: Your local county tax office cannot process duplicate title requests. You must use a TxDMV Regional Service Center.

How Online Texas Tools Can Help

TxDMV does not offer online duplicate title applications for individual owners. The webDEALER and ePLATE systems are only for licensed Texas dealers.

You can download Form VTR-34 from the TxDMV website. You need to fill it out before submitting by mail or in person. Check the official TxDMV website for any updates to online service availability.

Not eligible for a standard duplicate? Get a Texas title bond from TMD Surety Bonds.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Car Title in Texas?

The timeline depends on how you apply and whether your documents are complete.

Same Day Texas Title Options

TxDMV Regional Service Centers issue certified copies the same day when you apply in person. You need complete documents, no lien complications, and all required signatures. Most people walk out with their title in under an hour.

County tax offices cannot process duplicate titles. You must visit a Regional Service Center for same-day service.

Mail Processing Time in Texas

Mail applications take 10 to 15 business days for typical processing. Some applications can extend to 120 days during high-volume periods or if TxDMV finds document errors.

You cannot track mail applications online. Contact the TxDMV if your title does not arrive within three weeks.

Why the 30 Day Waiting Rule Exists

Texas requires a 30-day waiting period after the last title issuance before you can request another certified copy. This rule prevents fraud and gives time for the previous title to reach its destination.

The waiting period applies even if you never received your original title in the mail. TxDMV updates title record files in about 5 days on average.

Already delayed by missing paperwork? A bonded title may move faster than tracking down old documents.

When You Need a Texas Bonded Title

A bonded title is the solution when you cannot use the standard duplicate title process. The state requires a surety bond to protect any unknown prior owners or lenders while issuing you a title.

You need a bonded title when ownership records are missing or broken. This happens when the seller cannot provide the title or you never completed the paperwork. The bond stays active for 3 years before converting to a standard Texas title.

Signs You Need a Bonded Title Not a Duplicate

You cannot get a standard duplicate title in these situations:

• The vehicle was never properly titled in your name.
• The seller lost the title and cannot get a replacement.
• Paperwork is incomplete or does not match the vehicle.
• You cannot contact the previous owner to complete the transfer.

TxDMV will direct you to the bonded title process when they cannot verify a clean ownership trail. Most people discover they need a bonded title after trying to register or sell a vehicle.

Why You Need a Texas Bonded Title

A bonded title lets you make your vehicle legal when normal paperwork is missing. Here are common situations:

• Transfer a car into your name when the title is missing or was never signed correctly by the seller.
• Sell a car you own but cannot prove it with a valid Texas title.
• Junk or scrap a car when the salvage yard requires a title to accept it.
• Register or insure a car that has been sitting for years with no proper paperwork.
• Complete ownership of an inherited or gifted vehicle that came without a title.

If any of these match your situation, a Texas bonded title may be the quickest way to make your vehicle legal.

Basic Texas Bonded Title Requirements

You must meet these requirements to qualify for a bonded title:

• You are a Texas resident or qualifying military personnel stationed in Texas.
• You have the vehicle in your possession.
• The vehicle is not classified as junk or non-repairable under Texas law.
• You can provide at least some evidence of how you got the vehicle, such as a bill of sale or receipt.

Texas sets clear rules on who can use the bonded title process. Vehicles that are stolen, salvaged, or involved in lawsuits cannot get bonded titles.

Required Forms for a Texas Bonded Title

You need three main forms when you apply for a Texas title with a surety bond:

• Form VTR-130-SOF (Statement of Fact): You complete this form and submit it to TxDMV with your evidence of ownership.
• Form VTR-130-ND (Notice of Determination): TxDMV sends you this form after approving your application. It states your required bond amount.
• Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title): You submit this final form to your county tax office along with your surety bond certificate.

You also need proof of insurance, a VIN inspection if the vehicle was never titled in Texas, and the $15 TxDMV administrative fee.

How the Bond Amount Is Calculated

Texas sets the bond amount at 1.5 times the vehicle’s value. But you do not pay the full bond amount.

You pay a small percentage of that amount to the surety company. This premium typically costs $100 flat for vehicles under $4,500. Higher-value vehicles pay 1 to 3 percent of the bond amount based on credit and risk.

The bond is not insurance. It protects prior owners and lenders while Texas issues your title. TMD Surety Bonds helps determine the correct bond amount and cost for your situation.

Check if a Texas bonded title is right for you. Read: Texas Bonded Title: Steps, Costs, and Requirements.

How Much Does a Lost Title Cost in Texas?

The cost depends on whether you need a standard duplicate or a bonded title. Here is a breakdown of all fees.

Duplicate Title Fees in Texas

The TxDMV certified copy fee is $2 by mail or $5.45 in person at a Regional Service Center. This covers the administrative processing and issuance of your replacement title.

Make your payment to “Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.” Mail applications accept only checks or money orders. In-person visits accept cash, checks, or credit cards with a convenience fee.

Bonded Title Fees and Bond Cost

Bonded titles cost more because they require multiple steps and a surety bond. The TxDMV administrative fee is $15 to process your bonded title application.

The surety bond premium is separate. You pay $100 flat for vehicles valued under $4,500. Higher-value vehicles pay 1 to 3 percent of the bond amount based on credit and risk. The bond amount equals 1.5 times your vehicle’s value, but you only pay the premium percentage.

Extra Costs Owners Forget About

Other expenses can add up during the bonded title process. VIN inspections cost $0 to $40, depending on your local law enforcement agency. Vehicle appraisals range from $50 to $200 if TxDMV needs one to set your bond amount. Notary fees may apply for certain documents.

Typical total cost for a bonded title runs from $100 to $400. Your specific cost depends on vehicle value, credit score, and local inspection fees.

Get a quick bonded title quote for your vehicle from TMD Surety Bonds.

Choose TMD Surety Bonds for Your Bonded Title

TMD Surety Bonds specializes in Texas bonded titles and understands TxDMV requirements. We help you avoid common mistakes that cause application rejections and delays.

We do not replace TxDMV. We provide the required surety bond so the state can issue your bonded title. Our team guides you through the paperwork and bond purchase process from start to finish.

Here is how it works when you contact us:

• Share your vehicle information and situation with our Texas surety experts.
• Get guidance on completing Form VTR-130-SOF and applying for your Notice of Determination.
• Receive a bond quote estimate based on your vehicle’s value and credit profile.
• Purchase your bond after TxDMV approves your application and sets the final bond amount.
• Submit Form 130-U and your bond certificate to your county tax office within 30 days.

Most clients complete the bond purchase in under 24 hours. We answer your questions and help you navigate the full bonded title process.

Start your Texas bonded title now with TMD Surety Bonds.

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FAQs About Replacing a Lost Title in Texas

Still have questions about replacing a lost Texas car title or getting a title bond? Get quick answers below.

Why Do You Need a Car Title?

A car title proves you legally own the vehicle. You need it to register your car with Texas DMV, get insurance coverage, sell the vehicle to another person, or junk it at a salvage yard. No title means you cannot transfer ownership or prove the car is yours.

Can I Get a Copy of My Car Title Online in Texas?

You cannot get a duplicate car title online in Texas. TxDMV does not offer online applications for individual owners. You can download Form VTR-34 from the TxDMV website and fill it out. You must submit it by mail or in person at a Regional Service Center.

Can I Get a Texas Duplicate Title the Same Day?

You can get a same-day duplicate title at a TxDMV Regional Service Center. Bring your completed Form VTR-34, valid photo ID, original lien release if needed, and payment. You must have all documents correct with no complications.
County tax offices cannot issue duplicate titles. Mail applications take 10 to 15 business days or longer.

Do You Need a Title to Junk a Car?

Most junkyards and salvage yards require a title to accept your vehicle. This prevents fraud and proves you legally own the car before it gets scrapped.
If you do not have a title, you may need to get a bonded title first. Some recyclers accept other proof of ownership, but a valid Texas title is the standard requirement.

Why Do I Need a Bonded Title for a Car?

You need a bonded title when TxDMV cannot verify your vehicle’s ownership history through normal records. The surety bond protects any unknown prior owners or lenders while allowing you to get a legal title.

This situation happens when you buy a vehicle without receiving proper paperwork or cannot contact the previous owner. TMD Surety Bonds provides the required surety bond for your Texas bonded title application.

Discover More: Buying a Car with a Bonded Title in Texas: Is It Safe?

What If I Find My Original Title After Replacement?

The certified copy becomes your new title once TxDMV issues it. Your original title is void and should be destroyed.

If you find your original title after receiving the certified copy, contact TxDMV to confirm which document is valid. Keep only the certified copy and discard the old title to avoid confusion during future sales or transfers.