Duplicate or lost car titles
Lost, stolen, or damaged your California Certificate of Title? We prepare the Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) with you and process it.
When you need one
- Your title is lost, stolen, or damaged
- You’re selling the vehicle and can’t find the title
- You paid off the loan, but the released title never reached you
Selling without the title
The same form, the REG 227, can also transfer ownership when the title is lost. The seller and the buyer both sign it, so it helps to come in together.
What to bring
- Your license plate number or the vehicle’s VIN
- Photo ID
- If a lienholder is listed on your registration: the REG 227 with section 5 notarized
- Payment for the DMV fee, plus our service fee
Fees
- Our Service Fee
- Quoted before we start
- DMV Fees
- Set by the state, depends on your vehicle and transaction
DMV registration, transfer and use-tax amounts are set by the state and paid through us to the DMV. Our service fee is separate and we tell you what it is before we start.
Common questions
I lost my car title. How do I get a new one?
We prepare the Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) with you and submit it. The DMV issues the new title and mails it. If your registration lists a lienholder, section 5 of the REG 227 must be notarized.
I’m selling my car. Who gets the smog check?
The seller. California requires the seller to give the buyer a valid smog certification. If the vehicle is less than four years old, no smog check is needed for the sale. The new owner pays a smog transfer fee instead.
Are you the DMV?
No. We’re a private business that handles smog checks and registration paperwork. DMV fees are set by the state and are separate from our service fee, and we tell you both before we start.
Official sources
- California DMV: Title transfers and changes
- California DMV: Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227)
Checked against these sources on October 1, 2026.
Smog. Registration. Done.
Book a time or walk in.