Have you recently gone on a hunt for your car title only to come up empty-handed? Well you're not alone. Plenty of people each year lose their car title, damage it, or even have it stolen. This car title is what proves you are the owner of your vehicle, and gives you the ability to sell it, transfer ownership, and even use it as collateral on a loan.
In the state of Washington you can apply for a duplicate car title if it has been lost. This process is done through the Washington State Department of Licensing. You can go about the process in person or by mail, whichever is the easiest for you. Here's a look at the steps involved.
In person
Begin by filling out the Affidavit of Loss/Release of Interest (Form TD-420-040). Keep in mind each of the registered owners need their signatures on the form. The signatures will also need to be notarized.
There is a fee of $31 when applying for a duplicate title. If you are in a rush you can pay the Quick Title cost, which starts at $50.
Your information can be taken to your local vehicle licensing office.
By mail
You will need to fill out Form TD-420-040 with all the signatures notarized.
Include the $31 fee.
Mail the package to the following address:
Refunds and Title Services
Department of Licensing
PO Box 9909
Olympia, WA 98507
No matter which way you go about the application it can take up to 10 weeks to receive the duplicate title. You can find more information about replacing a lost or stolen car title in Washington by visiting the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles site.
