Where to get a duplicate registration certificate

You can obtain a copy of your car registration from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency—the exact name varies by state. Most states now allow you to request a duplicate through their website, by mail, or in person at a local DMV office. Some states charge a small fee, usually between $5 and $15, though this varies.

The fastest route is almost always the state DMV website. You can search "[your state] DMV duplicate registration" to find the exact page. If your state does not offer online requests, you will need to visit an office in person or mail a form to the state capital's DMV headquarters. A few states still require in-person visits, but most have moved to online or mail options.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state DMV website is the fastest way to request a duplicate registration, and most states process online requests within one to two weeks.
  • You will need your vehicle identification number (VIN), license plate number, and driver's license number to request a copy online.
  • If you lost your registration and need to drive when ready, some states issue a temporary registration slip that you can print or receive by email the same day.
  • Mailing a request takes longer—typically three to four weeks—but works if you cannot visit an office or use the website.
  • Keep a photo of your registration on your phone or in cloud storage so you have proof of ownership if you lose the physical copy again.

What information you need before you request

Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) ready. This is a 17-character code stamped on your dashboard (visible through the windshield on the driver's side) and printed on your current registration, insurance card, and title. If you cannot find your VIN, you can look it up using your license plate number on most state DMV websites.

You will also need your license plate number and your driver's license number. Some states ask for your vehicle's make and model year as well. If you are requesting a copy for a vehicle registered to someone else, you may need to provide their information instead, depending on your state's rules about who can request a duplicate.

Online requests through your state DMV

Go to your state's official DMV website and look for "duplicate registration," "replacement registration," or "order a copy of registration." The exact wording differs by state. You will fill out a form with your VIN, license plate, and driver's license information, then pay the fee using a credit or debit card. Most states charge between $5 and $15.

Processing time is usually one to two weeks. Your new registration will arrive by mail at the address on file with your DMV. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee—typically $10 to $20 more—if you need it faster. A few states also let you read a temporary registration slip when ready after you submit your request, which you can print and carry in your car while you wait for the physical copy.

Requesting by mail or in person

If your state does not offer online requests, you can mail a form to your state DMV. Search "[your state] DMV duplicate registration form" to find the correct form and mailing address. Fill it out completely, include a copy of your driver's license, and mail it with a check or money order for the fee. Do not send cash through the mail.

Processing by mail typically takes three to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your request. Keep a copy of what you send and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. If you need the copy urgently and your state allows in-person requests, visiting a local DMV office is faster—you may be able to walk out with a temporary slip the same day, though the physical copy will still arrive by mail.

What to do if you need to drive before your copy arrives

If you lost your registration and need to drive when ready, check whether your state offers a temporary registration document. Many states let you print one from their website right after you submit your duplicate request, or they email one to you. This temporary slip is valid for a set period—usually 30 to 60 days—and counts as proof of registration if a police officer stops you.

Keep the temporary slip in your car along with your insurance card and driver's license. When your new registration arrives, replace the temporary slip with the physical copy. If your state does not offer a temporary option and you need to drive, contact your local DMV office by phone to ask what your options are; some offices can issue a temporary document in person on the same day.

Replacing a registration lost in an accident or theft

If your registration was lost or destroyed in a vehicle accident, the process is the same as requesting any other duplicate. You do not need a police report or accident documentation. straightforward request a new copy through your state DMV using your VIN and other vehicle information.

If your registration was stolen as part of a vehicle theft or break-in, report the theft to police first and get a report number. When you request your duplicate registration, you can mention the theft in case your state has a flag system for stolen documents. This does not change the request process, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your old registration fraudulently.

Keeping your registration safe going forward

Store your physical registration in your glove box or a find spot in your car, not loose on your dashboard where it can blow away or be easily stolen. Take a clear photo of both sides of your registration and save it to your phone's photo library and a cloud storage service like Google Drive or iCloud. If you lose the physical copy again, you will have proof of what it looked like and your VIN will be visible in the photo.

Some people also photograph their registration before a long road trip or when traveling to an unfamiliar area. If your registration is lost or stolen while you are away from home, you can show the photo to a police officer as temporary proof until you can get a duplicate mailed to you or printed at a local DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a duplicate registration if the car is registered to someone else?

Rules vary by state. Some states let any registered owner request a duplicate, while others require the primary owner to request it. Contact your state DMV directly or check their website for their specific policy. You may need to provide written permission from the registered owner if you are not listed on the title.

What if I moved and my registration has my old address?

You should update your address with your state DMV before requesting a duplicate. A duplicate will be printed with your current address on file. If you request a duplicate before updating your address, it will arrive at your old address and you will not receive it. Update your address online, by mail, or in person first.

How much does a duplicate registration cost?

Fees range from $5 to $15 in most states, though some states charge more. A few states offer the first duplicate free within a certain time period. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee, or call your local office. Expedited processing, if available, usually costs an additional $10 to $20.

Do I need my title to get a duplicate registration?

No. Your registration and title are separate documents. You only need your VIN, license plate number, and driver's license number to request a duplicate registration. Your title stays with you and does not need to be reordered unless it is also lost or damaged.

What if my state's DMV website is down or not working?

Call your local DMV office or the state DMV customer service line to ask about alternative ways to request a duplicate. You can also visit an office in person if one is nearby. Most states have a phone number on their DMV website that connects you to a representative who can help you submit your request over the phone.