To attain a replacement title in West Virginia, you’ll have to provide your driver’s license, a title replacement form, and proof of vehicle ownership. You’ll also have to pay a fee of $15.

A vehicle title is a piece of paper that confirms that you are the owner of a car. It’s an important document—one that you should be able to locate at any given time. You’ll definitely need it if you move out of state or are trying to sell your car. If you lose your title, or if it gets damaged, you’ll need to replace it as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, there’s not a nationwide process for obtaining a replacement title. Since the specifics vary depending on the state, it can be a tad confusing to figure out how to go through the process properly. Here’s how to get a title replacement if you live in West Virginia.

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What you need to get a replacement title in West Virginia

You don’t need too many documents to get a replacement title in West Virginia—in fact, it has some of the looser regulations in the country. You'll just need to provide:

A filled-out application for a title replacement, known as a

4-TR

form

ID (usually a driver’s license)

Proof of vehicle ownership

Your vehicle’s VIN

There are further requirements if your car has a lien. In order to replace the title, your lienholder must fill out a form to discharge, or end, the lien. It’s a relatively simple document but could take up to a month to be approved.

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West Virginia car insurance laws

How to apply for a replacement title in West Virginia

You can apply for a replacement title in West Virginia in person or by mail. While the line at the DMV might not be the most appealing option, an in-person visit will likely expedite the process. Furthermore, you can expect to receive help from a field agent.

Still, the 4-TR isn’t too complicated of a form. You’ll need to provide:

Your contact information

Some basic vehicle information, such as the make, model, VIN, and license plate number

The reason you’re applying for a replacement title.

It might get a bit trickier if you have a lien on your vehicle. Your lienholder must agree to release the vehicle from their legal possession for you to replace the title. This will require an extra form as well as a signature on the 4-TR.

Should your lienholder refuse to release your vehicle from the lien, they will have to fill out the form themselves, which could delay the process. It’s best to consult with them as to their preferred course of action before you apply for a title replacement.

If you don’t want to deal with a stop at the DMV, you can also apply for a title replacement by mail. You’ll need to provide copies of all necessary documentation and send a check for $15. It can be mailed to:

WV Division of Motor Vehicles

5707 MacCorkle Ave SE,

Charleston, WV 25304

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How long does it take to get a replacement title in West Virginia?

There’s no exact time frame specified by the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles. However, estimates project it will take between 2 to 6 weeks for a replacement title to be issued in West Virginia.

When do you need a replacement title in West Virginia?

While it may appear insignificant, a vehicle title is a crucial part of car ownership — and something you should be able to easily locate.

It’s particularly important if you are selling your car, especially if you’re doing a private sale. That’s because you’ll likely be doing the negotiating and title transfer process yourself. Without a hard copy of your title, that process is impossible. You might also need a title replacement—or a new one altogether—if you move states.

You’ll need a replacement title if it is:

Lost

Stolen

Illegible

Mutilated or damaged

Altered

Never received from the DMV

Finding insurance for your vehicle in West Virginia

While you’re filing through all of that documentation, it’s a good idea to check in on your car insurance. You probably have a decent deal already, but you can find a better—and cheaper—one with the

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FAQs

Can I apply for a title replacement in West Virginia via mail?

Yes, you can apply for a title replacement via mail in West Virginia! Be aware, though, that it may take a little longer to do things via mail, so a DMV trip may be the most efficient way to get your hands on a title replacement.

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