Michigan Replacement Title

All you need to apply for a replacement Michigan title is a duplicate application form, proof of identification, and $15.
Written by Bellina Gaskey
Edited by Pat Roache
background
To obtain a replacement certificate of title in
Michigan
, you’ll need to submit a duplicate title application to the Secretary of State (SOS) with proof of identity and pay a $15 titling fee. 
  • You can submit your Michigan title replacement paperwork and fees online or in-person if possible, or you can send them by mail if you currently reside out of state.
  • The current vehicle owner will need to accompany you to the SOS office if you are missing a car title during a transfer of ownership.
  • It should take 14 days to receive your new title in the mail, though you may be able to expedite this wait in person by paying an additional $5 fee.

What you’ll need to get a replacement title in Michigan 

To apply for a
missing or lost title replacement
in Michigan, you’ll need to gather the following specific information and documentation:
  • Your
    Michigan driver’s license
    , state ID card, or passport
  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Vehicle information (make, model, year)
  • $15 replacement title fee
You can apply for a Michigan title replacement online, in person, or by mail.
Keep in mind: The title replacement process in Michigan is not one size fits all. Before you head to your local SOS office, contact the Information Center at 888-767-6424 to ensure you have all of the paperwork you’ll need for your new title. 

Online application for a replacement title in Michigan 

To apply for a new Michigan car title online, submit your application and pay the $15 fee through the Michigan
ExpressSOS
online service. 
Keep in mind: Online applications are not possible if you have notified the Secretary of State’s office of a change of address within the last 10 days or if you are using a power of attorney or appointment of agent for the application.

In-person application for a replacement title in Michigan

Michigan residents may need to go to their SOS motor vehicle office in person if their personal information has changed or if the vehicle title is needed to sell a car.
Here’s what you’ll need to do at your local SOS branch office:
  • Fill out a title replacement application form TR-11L
  • Show proof of identification (ex: driver’s license)
  • Pay the $15 duplicate title fee
  • Pay an additional $5 fee for same-day instant title service, there is an additional $5 fee
Keep in mind: The original title owner will need to accompany you to the SOS if you are transferring ownership of the vehicle. In this case, the previous owner will also need to bring: 
If the owner of a vehicle is unable to appear, you will need to fill out an
Appointment of Agent form TR-128
. This will allow another person to sign the title application in lieu of the original owner. 

Mail applications for replacement titles while out of state

You can apply for a duplicate title by mail if you are currently
located out-of-state
. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
To pay by credit card: Include your credit card information on the application and fax the application to 517-636-5865.
To pay by check or money order: Make it payable to the “State of Michigan” and send the application and payment to the following address:
Michigan Department of State
Special Services Branch
7064 Crowner Drive
Lansing, MI 48918

It takes 14 days to get a replacement title in Michigan

You should receive your new Michigan vehicle title in the mail after 14 days once your replacement application has been processed.
Faster service: You can pay a $5 fee to receive the title on the same day if you apply in person. This is only available at select SOS branches that offer instant titling services.
Jerry
handles everything from finding quotes to signing on new policies right in the app. No more filling out hundreds of forms! Thank you, Jerry, for helping my move to a new state feel hassle-free.” —Dolores T.
RECOMMENDED
Compare auto insurance policies
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
Find insurance savings
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings