Texas doesn’t issue a “duplicate” title; it issues a certified copy of title, which replaces the original. You apply with Form VTR-34 at a TxDMV Regional Service Center, by mail for $2 or in person for $5.45.
What you need
- Form VTR-34, signed by every recorded owner
- A copy of a government-issued photo ID for each owner (expired no more than 12 months)
- An original signed release of lien, if a lien is still on record, even if the loan is paid off
- The fee: $2 by mail (check, cashier’s check or money order to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles) or $5.45 in person
- For a business, trust or power of attorney: proof of the signer’s authority
Filling in VTR-34
VTR-34 is a fillable PDF.
- Checklist. Tick each box to confirm the fee, ID, signatures and lien release.
- Vehicle information. VIN, year, make, body style and model. Title number and Texas plate number can be left blank if you don’t know them.
- Recipient information. Who the certified copy goes to, and where it should be mailed.
- Government-issued identification. Type, issuing state or country, number and expiration date for each ID, and attach copies.
- Certification. Each owner signs, prints their name and dates it. Original signatures in black or blue ink are required unless signed electronically.
Submitting it
- By mail: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, 1601 Southwest Parkway, Suite A, Wichita Falls, TX 76302, with the $2 fee. Don’t send cash.
- In person: at a TxDMV Regional Service Center (an appointment is encouraged), with your photo ID and $5.45. Card payments carry a convenience fee.
Documents you submit are not returned.
Things to know
- 30-day wait: you can’t apply if a certified copy was issued in the last 30 days.
- A paid-off loan may still show on the record. If it does, you need the lender’s original release of lien. A fax, scan or photocopy isn’t accepted. If there’s an active lien, the lienholder should apply instead.
- The certified copy replaces the original and any earlier copies.
Selling the car?
Get the certified copy first, then sign it over. See Texas title transfer after a private sale.