How to Replace a Lost Title in Florida

Important documents should always have a safe and secure space at your home. However, even under the best circumstances, crucial pieces of paper can be misplaced, damaged, lost, or stolen. If your car title gets lost, you will need to have it replaced as soon as possible. It is impossible to transfer ownership of your vehicle without having a valid physical title, and it can cause you other problems with the DHSMV later on down the road. No matter what reason you have for no longer having your vehicle’s title, you should make it a priority to follow the replacement protocol very soon.

Applying for a Duplicate Title

In Florida, it is very easy to replace a lost title. First, you will need to fill out an Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title.

The application will require specific information about the car and owner. If there are two owners in the title, both names will have to sign on the application before it can be replaced. If your title has a lienholder, include proof that the lien has been paid. Otherwise, you can have the lienholder fill out an application form or submit a notarized lien document. If your car title has been stolen, you will need to submit a copy of the theft report. If your vehicle is not titled with your current address, you must apply for a duplicate title in your vehicle’s address.

Submitting Your Application

After completely filling out the form, you may submit it to the nearest local county tax collector’s office. Alternatively, you can also mail your application letter to this address:

Neil Kirkman Building
2900 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0500

Duplicate Title Application Fees

You can request either an electronic title or a paper title, and they will carry slightly different fees. Electronic copies cost $72.25, whereas paper titles are $77.75. These fees must be submitted with your application on a check made out to the Florida DHSMV. Some offices even offer instant title processing for a mere $7 additional fee, and allow you to take your title home right away.

A lost vehicle title in Flordia may not seem like a big deal, all things considered. But over time, it can turn into a serious burden and inconvenience on your journey as an automobile owner. Cars frequently exchange hands, and you never know when you might need your title. Take the steps to secure a replacement quickly if it is ever lost, and do your best to keep it safe from then on.