Duplicate Title in California
Lost, stolen, or never received title – we get you a replacement fast
If your California title is lost, stolen, damaged, or you never received it, we handle the replacement cleanly. We prep the REG 227 form, check lienholder rules, calculate fees, and submit to DMV systems so you don’t waste a day in line. California issues duplicate titles for lost, stolen, mutilated, illegible, or paperless titles. (California DMV)
When you need a duplicate title
- Title lost, stolen, or never arrived
- Title damaged or illegible
- You have a paperless title and need a printed one
- You need to transfer ownership but the original title is missing
DMV uses the Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) for these cases. Issuing a duplicate cancels the original. (California DMV)
What to bring
- Government ID
- License plate number and last 5 of the VIN
- Any old registration card you have
- Lien release if the loan is paid off, or lienholder info if a loan is active
- If title was damaged, bring the damaged title
You can also start replacement through the DMV Virtual Office. We handle it at the counter and keep it moving. (California DMV)
Lienholders and electronic titles – the gotchas
- If there is a lienholder on record, their participation in the ELT program can affect whether a paper or electronic title is issued. ELT titles are electronic notifications to the lienholder and carry the same legal weight as paper. (California DMV)
- For newer vehicles, DMV may require the legal owner of record to sign the REG 227, and some lienholder releases must be notarized. We confirm what your lender requires before you sign anything. (California DMV)
How your visit works
- 5 minute intake – tell us what happened to the title and whether there is a lien
- Document check – we complete REG 227 correctly the first time
- Fees quoted – DMV replacement fee plus any lienholder or mailing steps
- Submission – we file your application to DMV systems or Virtual Office
- Wrap up – DMV mails the replacement title to the authorized party per their rules
You leave with proof of submission and clear next steps. The title is printed and mailed by DMV. (California DMV)
Special situations we clean up
- Never received title – track and reissue using REG 227 sections for “not received”
- Loan just paid off – process lien release and request a clean title in your name
- Name change or correction – pair REG 227 with supporting documents
- Paperless title – convert to printed where allowed
- Moving between owners – use REG 227 to duplicate and transfer in one packet when the original is gone
REG 227 is the DMV’s standard path for replacement and, when needed, for transfer without the original title. (California DMV)
FAQ
How long does it take
We submit same day. DMV prints and mails the replacement title. Mailing time is on DMV’s side.
Do I need a smog
Replacement title only – no. Smog requirements apply to transfers, not to a straight duplicate.
Can I do it online
Yes, many replacements can start in the DMV Virtual Office. We can also process it for you in office. (California DMV)
What if my title was stolen
We mark it correctly on REG 227 so DMV cancels the old certificate and issues a replacement. (California DMV)
There is a lienholder – now what
Rules differ for ELT vs paper lienholders. We coordinate signatures and any notarization so the request is not rejected. (California DMV)
Can I replace and transfer at the same time
Yes. REG 227 supports replacement and transfer when the original title is missing, subject to DMV rules. (California DMV)
Bring the basics – leave with the process handled
Call 619-736-1313
Email service@paylowinsurance.com
Visit 415 Fletcher Pkwy Ste 306, El Cajon, CA 92020
Hours
Mon – Fri – 9AM – 6PM
Sat – 10AM – 2PM
We handle California duplicate titles end to end – REG 227, lienholder requirements, ELT details, and submission – so you get your replacement title without the DMV line.