How to Get a Copy of Your Vehicle Title in Texas

What you need to do to get a duplicate title

To get a copy of your vehicle title in Texas, you submit a form to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) along with proof of ownership and a fee. The DMV will mail you a duplicate title within two to three weeks in most cases. You do not need to visit an office in person — you can mail your request or submit it online through the Texas DMV website.

A duplicate title is the same legal document as your original. It has the same vehicle identification number (VIN), ownership information, and lienholder details if you have a loan. The DMV keeps a record of all titles issued for your vehicle, so there is no difference in how banks, insurance companies, or buyers treat a duplicate versus an original.

Key Takeaways

You can request a duplicate title online, by mail, or through an authorized county tax assessor-collector office, and the fee is typically $11 to $20 depending on your method.
You will need to fill out Form 130-U (process for Duplicate or Corrected Title) and provide proof that you own the vehicle, such as your driver's license and vehicle registration.
If someone else's name is on the title with you, both owners must sign the process unless you have a power of attorney document.
The DMV mails duplicate titles to the address on file, so update your address with them before requesting if you have moved recently.
If your title has a lienholder (a bank or lender), the duplicate will show that lienholder, and you may need their permission or signature depending on your situation.

How to request a duplicate title online

The fastest route is the Texas DMV online portal at txdmv.gov. You will need your VIN, current Texas driver's license or ID number, and a valid email address. The system will walk you through uploading a photo of your driver's license as proof of identity. The fee is $11 when you pay by credit or debit card.

After you submit, the DMV sends a confirmation email with a reference number. You can check the status of your request online using that number. The title will be mailed to the address the DMV has on file for you, so verify that address is current before you submit. If you have moved and have not updated your address with the DMV, contact them first or request that the title be sent to a different address during the online process if that option is available.

Mailing a duplicate title request

You can also mail Form 130-U directly to the DMV. read the form from txdmv.gov or request a copy by phone at 1-888-368-4689. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and include a copy of your driver's license or ID. Enclose a check or money order for $20 payable to the "Texas Department of Motor Vehicles."

Mail the packet to the address listed on the form — this changes based on the county where your vehicle is registered, so check the current form before mailing. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. Keep a copy of everything you send in case you need to follow up.

Using a county tax assessor-collector office

Every Texas county has a tax assessor-collector office that handles vehicle title requests on behalf of the DMV. You can walk in with Form 130-U, your driver's license, and a check or money order for the fee (usually $20, but some offices charge slightly different amounts). The office will submit your request to the DMV and give you a receipt with a tracking number.

This method takes the same amount of time as mailing — two to three weeks — but you get when ready confirmation that your request was received and submitted correctly. Find your county's office location and hours on the Texas DMV website or by calling the main DMV line.

What to do if both owners need to sign

If the title shows two owners and you are not the only one listed, both owners must sign Form 130-U. If the other owner cannot sign in person, they can sign the form and mail it to you, or you can obtain a power of attorney document that gives you the legal authority to request the title on their behalf. A power of attorney must be notarized and must specifically grant you the right to handle vehicle title matters.

If the other owner refuses to sign or you cannot locate them, you will need to contact the DMV directly to discuss your options. Some situations — such as divorce decrees or court orders — may allow you to request a title change without the other owner's signature, but you will need to provide documentation of that court order.

Titles with a lienholder or loan

If you still owe money on your vehicle, the title will show the lienholder's name (usually a bank or credit union). When you request a duplicate, the DMV will issue a title with the same lienholder listed. You do not need the lienholder's permission to request a duplicate title — it is your copy of the same document they already have.

However, if you want to remove the lienholder's name because you paid off the loan, you will need a release of lien document from the lender. That is a separate process from requesting a duplicate. Contact your lender and ask for a "release of lien" or "lien release" form, then submit that to the DMV along with a request to correct the title.

If your title is damaged or illegible

A damaged, faded, or water-damaged title counts as a duplicate request. Use the same Form 130-U and process, but note on the form that you are requesting a duplicate because the original is damaged. Include the damaged title with your request if possible so the DMV can see the condition. If you cannot locate the damaged title, you can still request a duplicate — just note that it is lost or missing.

The fee and timeline are the same whether the title is damaged, lost, or you straightforward need an extra copy for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a duplicate title in Texas?

The DMV typically mails duplicate titles within two to three weeks of receiving your request. Online requests may process slightly faster than mailed requests, but there is no may provide expedited option. If you need the title urgently, contact the DMV at 1-888-368-4689 to ask if your request can be prioritized.

Can I get a duplicate title the same day?

No. Texas does not issue same-day duplicate titles. The fastest option is to request online and wait for mail delivery. Some county tax assessor-collector offices can issue a temporary document or receipt showing your request was submitted, but the official title must come from the DMV by mail.

What if I moved and the DMV has my old address?

Update your address with the DMV before requesting the duplicate, or provide your new address during the online request process. If you submit a mailed request with an outdated address on file, the title will go to your old address. You can contact the DMV to request address correction before submitting your duplicate title request.

Do I need the original title to request a duplicate?

No. If your original title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can still request a duplicate. The DMV has a record of your vehicle and can issue a new copy. If you have the original, you do not need to send it in unless it is damaged and you want the DMV to see the condition.

Can someone else pick up my duplicate title for me?

No. Titles are mailed directly to the address on file with the DMV. You cannot have someone else pick it up at an office or have it sent to a different person. If you need the title sent to a different address, update your DMV address or request address correction before you submit your process.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.