How to Replace Your Car Registration in Texas

Dealing with a lost car registration in Texas is a common problem for many vehicle owners in the state. In general, motorists are required to carry a valid registration card whenever operating a car that they own. To get a duplicate copy of a vehicle registration if something happens to the original, you must file a request through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

You can replace a car registration in TX by preparing all of the correct documents and information that will be asked of you by the DMV. If you are ready for this replacement process, you can ensure that you are able to drive in Texas without the risk of fines and other penalties. Overall, obtaining this duplicate document will allow you to prove to local law enforcement officers that your vehicle-related credentials are up-to-date. To learn more about Texas DMV registration replacement procedures, read the sections below.

When do you need to get a copy of your vehicle registration in Texas?

A Texas DMV lost registration is a major problem for Texas drivers, as driving a vehicle without its proper documentation can leave you at risk for different penalties. These penalties can vary, depending on what county you live in. For example, if you are pulled over in Travis County without a vehicle registration, you may be subject to over $150 in fees. To avoid these penalties, make sure to get a replacement document. Getting a TX DMV copy of registration will be especially useful if your original registration has been:

  • Lost.
  • Stolen.
  • Damaged/destroyed.
  • Rendered otherwise ineligible in some way.

How to Obtain a Replacement Vehicle Registration in Texas

The process of getting a DMV registration replacement in Texas can involve multiple application methods, depending on your preference. The TX DMV has made it easy to choose the vehicle registration copying method that works best for your needs. On the other hand, it is important to note that there you may not get a copy of a vehicle registration online. In any case, you will need to prepare the right materials for each of those procedures, which include:

How to Replace a Vehicle Registration by Mail

If you would like to acquire a replacement vehicle registration in Texas, you may send a request by mail. To do so, you must collect all of the documents above, fill out a “Request for Texas Motor Vehicle Information” form, and send them with the appropriate fee payment to:

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

Vehicle Titles and Registration Division

Austin, TX 78779-0001

It is important to note that this TX DMV registration replacement application method may take slightly longer, as it must account for delivery and processing times.

How to Replace a Vehicle Registration in Person

In order to obtain a Texas DMV duplicate registration in person, you need to follow a similar procedure as described above. However, instead of submitting your information to the Austin branch, you may visit any of the TX DMV offices across the state. This can allow you to use the location closest to you, ask any questions that you may have about your registration and avoid any postage fees.

Texas Stolen Car Registration Requirements

Managing a stolen car registration in Texas can be a slightly different process in comparison to the other reasons for losing this document. Car registrations are credentials that contain critical pieces of information. As such, they can be targeted by thieves who wish to use your documents as a way to steal your identity. If this happens, you could lose your passwords, bank account information and more. Therefore, you are encouraged to contact local law enforcement if your documents are stolen.

Texas DMV Sticker Replacement

Getting a DMV sticker replacement in Texas is also part of this process. While your registration cards are the official representation of your car’s auto insurance policy and tax payments information, the sticker is another important document for proving that your car is registered with the TX DMV. Your sticker will always need to match the information on your current registration, so you will receive a new tag whenever you get a DMV duplicate registration from the DMV.

Texas Vehicle Registration Replacement Fees

Obtaining a replacement for your lost car registration papers in Texas also comes with a cost, which must be included in the form of a check or money order, along with your information listed above. Some of the many fees associated with this process include:

  • The $2 duplicate document fee.
  • The $6 duplicate tag fee.
  • The $0.50 automation fee.

In order to get a copy of a car registration in Texas, you will need to ensure that all of your information is in order, and that you submit all of the right fees and documents.

Texas Vehicle Registration Replacement Forms

Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.

Last updated on Tuesday, March 10 2020.

Sources

  1. Register your Vehicle FAQs from TXDMV.gov