How to Get a Duplicate Title in Massachusetts

Lost your vehicle title? Don’t worry—obtaining a duplicate title in Massachusetts is usually a straightforward process.

Whether your title has been lost, stolen, damaged, or never received, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) allows vehicle owners to request a replacement title online or by mail.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Duplicate Title?
• What You’ll Need
• How Much Does It Cost?
• How to Apply Online
• How to Apply by Mail
• Special Situations
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a Duplicate Title?

A duplicate title is a replacement copy of your Massachusetts Certificate of Title. It serves as proof of ownership and may be required when:

• Selling a vehicle
• Transferring ownership
• Donating a vehicle
• Registering a vehicle in another state
• Refinancing a vehicle loan
• Correcting title information

What You’ll Need

To request a duplicate title, you’ll need either:

• Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Your Certificate of Title Number

You can usually find this information on your registration.

You’ll also need:

• Your Massachusetts Driver’s License Number (individual owners)
• Your Federal Identification Number (FID) if the vehicle is owned by a business

How Much Does a Duplicate Title Cost?

The Massachusetts RMV currently charges a $25 fee for a duplicate title.

How to Request a Duplicate Title Online

The fastest and easiest way to request a duplicate title is online through the Massachusetts RMV.

Apply for a Duplicate Title Online

1. Log in with your MyMassGov account.
2. Enter your vehicle and owner information.
3. Pay the $25 fee.
4. Wait for your replacement title to arrive by mail.

The RMV states that duplicate titles may take up to 10 business days to arrive.

View the RMV Duplicate Title Instructions

How to Request a Duplicate Title by Mail

If you prefer to apply by mail, complete the Duplicate Title Application and mail it with a check or money order payable to MassDOT.

Registry of Motor Vehicles
Title Division
P.O. Box 55885
Boston, MA 02205-5885

Download the Duplicate Title Application

Special Situations

My Vehicle Loan Has Been Paid Off

If your vehicle loan has been paid off, contact your lender first to determine whether they still have the title.

If they do not, you may need a lien release letter on lender letterhead showing:

• The loan has been paid in full
• Vehicle year
• Vehicle make
• Vehicle VIN
• Names of all titled owners

The RMV requires original lien release documentation when applicable.

The Vehicle Owner Has Passed Away

If the titled owner is deceased, additional documentation may be required.

Depending on the situation, this may include:

• Death Certificate
• Affidavit of Surviving Spouse
• Letters of Administration
• Court Order

Download the Affidavit of Surviving Spouse

The Title Is Damaged

If the original title is damaged, mutilated, or illegible, it should be submitted with your duplicate title application.

I Found My Original Title

If the original title is found after a duplicate title has been issued, the original title must be surrendered to the RMV.

I Need to Correct Information on My Title

If ownership, lienholder, or other title information needs to be corrected, you may need a title amendment rather than a duplicate title.

Download the Title Amendment Form

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a duplicate title cost in Massachusetts?

The current RMV fee for a duplicate title is $25.

How long does it take to get a duplicate title?

The RMV states that duplicate titles may take up to 10 business days to arrive by mail.

Can I get a duplicate title online?

Yes. Most vehicle owners can request a duplicate title online through the Massachusetts RMV.

Can I sell my vehicle without a title?

In most situations, you will need a title to transfer ownership of a vehicle. If your title has been lost, you should obtain a duplicate title before selling the vehicle.

What if my lender still has the title?

If your vehicle loan has not been paid off, the lender may still be holding the title. Contact them before applying for a duplicate title.

What should I do if the owner of the vehicle has passed away?

Additional documents may be required, including a death certificate and, in some cases, an Affidavit of Surviving Spouse or court documents.