Motor vehicle owners wondering how to replace vehicle title in Minnesota can finalize their procedure via one of the several methods offered by the state Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS). Motorists can request a replacement car title due to various reasons, including having a lost, stolen or destroyed title certificate.

Applying to replace a lost car title at the DMV in MN in a timely manner is of great importance, as this document is usually needed for the completion of other vehicle-related proceedings, including vehicle registrations and title transfers. Learn more about the MN requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title and find out where to submit the required documents for a duplicate certificate by reading the below sections.

When do you need to get a duplicate car title in Minnesota?

Residents can get a replacement for a lost car title from the Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services in several instances. Note that the reasons for requesting a replacement car title in Minnesota are given in a separate section of the application for a duplicate title. Vehicle owners can submit a replacement car title request provided their original certificate is lost or stolen as well as in cases when a document has not been received.

Additional reasons for requesting a duplicate title certificate include a mutilated or illegible form. If motorists fail to complete this process in due time, then they may not be able to conduct other official proceedings with the state DVS.

Documents Required When Applying for a Minnesota Car Title Copy

The Driver and Vehicle Services imposes certain Minnesota requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title to individuals applying for a duplicate document. During the process of how to get a new title if lost or damaged, applicants will need to submit the applicable documentation and the allotted duplicate fee payment.

The paperwork necessary to replace a lost car title at the DMV includes a properly completed replacement title application form. If the reason for replacing a car title in Minnesota is an illegible or mutilated document, then applicants must attach the mutilated or illegible form to their application package.

Additionally, the necessary documentation may vary depending on the applicant’s circumstances. For instance, if a legal representative requests a car title search and copy on behalf of the owner named on the original certificate of title, then a power of attorney will also be necessary.

Available Methods for Replacing Your Car Title in Minnesota

If you are wondering how to get a new title if lost, stolen or destroyed, then note that the DVS currently offers two methods to submit your application. You can replace a lost title in person or by mail. Presently, it is not possible to replace a car title online in Minnesota.

To replace a car title by mail or in person, you must submit the corresponding replacement title application form and fee payment. If you decide to submit your application for a lost auto title replacement via mail, then you will need to make remittance payable to the Driver and Vehicle Services.

By Mail

Car owners who are unable to personally submit their MN replacement car title request can apply via mail instead. Prior to submitting their request to replace a car title by mail, applicants must ensure they have properly completed their application form. Failure to provide the required data may result in denial of motorists’ application for a replacement.

Applicants requesting a replacement vehicle title must also make sure that they include the proper supporting documentation and fee payment made payable to the DVS. Vehicle owners who request their new certificate to be sent to a temporary address must print the location correctly on their replacement title application forms and submit a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the address listed on the form.

In Person

The Minnesota requirements for replacing a lost or damaged car title in person at an MN deputy registrar office are similar to those that apply to the mail-in process. If applying to replace a lost car title in person, then you will also need to furnish a properly filled out application form along with fee payment.

Remember to include the corresponding supporting paperwork (a power of attorney or your illegible or mutilated title certificate) if it applies to your case. Prior to going to a title office, to begin the replacement procedure, contact the DVS and ask whether you will need to present an acceptable ID as well.

Note: Vehicle owners who have not received their title within six months will have their replacement title application processed at no cost.

How to Fill out the Duplicate Car Title Application in Minnesota

The state DVS provides individuals with a damaged or lost auto title with a specific application form and requires them to enter both personal details and vehicle-related data when completing one. Before furnishing their application for replacing a car title, vehicle owners must double check they provided the required information, otherwise, the DVS may deny the requested action. The Application for Duplicate Title, Registration, Cab or Lien Card generally requires the following details to be included:

  • Information about the vehicle in question, such as the vehicle identification number, MN plate number, make and model year and the title number of missing document
  • Details about the owner(s), including his or her full name, date of birth and driving license
  • The reason for requesting a duplicate (a stolen, destroyed, mutilated or lost car title)
  • A lien release if applicable
  • The applicant(s) signature(s)

The list of required information in the application for requesting a replacement auto title in Minnesota is not all-inclusive and other data may need to be included as well. Residents who are wondering how to replace a stolen car title should report the theft to local law enforcement to prevent additional consequences of a missing title.

Minnesota Car Title Replacement Fees

A mandatory step in the process of how to get a replacement car title in MN is arranging payment for the $10 filing fee for the procedure. However, it is important to note that the cost to replace a lost car title may vary. In addition to the basic fee, applicants will also be subject to a filing cost. Fees are subject to change without notice.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 10 2020.