How to Get Your Title in Virginia
We all lose things from time to time. Sometimes it’s a single sock that goes missing from the dryer, sometimes it’s something important, like your vehicle title.
Before you panic, know that you’re not the only person who has had a title go missing or get destroyed. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles has a whole process outlined for these situations. Check it out below:
The first thing you’ll need to do is fill out an Application for Supplemental and Transfer Liens or Replacement and Substitute Titles. Unlike other states, even if the vehicle has multiple owners, you’ll only need to submit one application.
If you had a lien on your vehicle at any point, you’ll have to submit proof that you satisfied the lien in order to get your new title sent to you. Otherwise, the new title will get sent to the previous lienholder.
There is a $10.00 fee for getting a duplicate title. However, the state of Virginia gives you the option to save $1.00 if you submit your application online.
If you choose not to submit your application online, just bring your completed form, your current registration card, and your driver’s license to your local Customer Service Center.
Once you’re finished with that, you’ll be on your way to securing a duplicate title for your vehicle. If you happen to find your old title once you’ve applied for a new one, know that the original is now invalid and will need to be turned in to the DMV.
Note: this information is subject to change and is for informational purposes only. Be sure to check with your local DMV to make sure that all processes are the same, or you can visit the Virginia DMV page.
Step |
Details |
Documents / Notes |
1. Gather Required Documents |
- For in-state vehicles: MCO/MSO, Form VSA 17A, proof of ID & residency, payment - For out-of-state vehicles: out-of-state title/registration, Form VSA 17A, proof of ID & residency, odometer disclosure (if required), payment |
- Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) or Statement of Origin (MSO) - Application for Title and Registration (VSA 17A) - Odometer Disclosure Statement (if needed) |
2. Choose Titling Method |
- Online (electronic titling for VA residents with myDMV accounts) - In-person at DMV office - By mail (addresses provided) - Drop-off service at DMV |
- Online requires eligibility - Mail to: P.O. Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269 (or 2300 West Broad St for courier) |
3. Pay Fees |
- $15 titling fee - Sales and use tax based on purchase price/fair market value - Registration fee varies |
- Fees depend on vehicle and county - Check VA DMV fee calculator for specifics |
4. Record Odometer Reading |
- Seller records odometer reading on title or provides Odometer Disclosure Statement - Buyer records odometer on Form VSA 17A |
- Important for vehicles less than 10 years old |
Special Cases |
- Lost/mutilated title replacement: Form VSA 67 + $15 fee - Lien removal: lien release + $15 fee - Imported vehicles: proof of FMVSS compliance, EPA declaration, $15 fee |
- Forms and details available on VA DMV website |
Find Local DMV |
Locate nearest DMV office or DMV Select location online |
Use Find a DMV page |
Helpful Information
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