Michigan Lost Vehicle Title Replacement
If your vehicle title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate title through the Michigan Secretary of State — Vehicle Services. Use this checklist to prepare your application.
Quick answer
To replace a lost Michigan vehicle title, complete Form TR-256 (Application for Michigan Vehicle Title) and submit it at a Michigan Secretary of State branch office with valid photo ID and the duplicate title fee. Form TR-256 is available at SOS branch offices — check the Michigan SOS website for the current fee.
Key facts
- State
- Michigan
- Agency
- Michigan Secretary of State
- Process
- Replace Lost Title
- Last verified
- 2026-05-10
- Official source
- Michigan Secretary of State ↗
Key facts from official sources
Form TR-256 (Application for Michigan Vehicle Title) is required to apply for a duplicate title in Michigan.
Michigan SOS — Titles and Registration ↗Duplicate title fee — check the Michigan SOS fee schedule for the current amount.
Michigan SOS — Titles and Registration ↗Quick reference
Applicant Checklist
Items the applicant typically needs to prepare or provide.
Fees
Duplicate title fee
Check Michigan SOS for the current duplicate title fee.
Step-by-step process
- 1Download or obtain the state's duplicate title application form.
- 2Complete the form with your vehicle's VIN, year, make, model, and your owner information.
- 3Gather required ID and any supporting documents.
- 4Submit the form and pay the duplicate title fee at a state DMV office or by mail.
- 5Receive your duplicate title in the mail (timing varies by state).
Common mistakes to avoid
- ✗Not using Form TR-256 (Application for Michigan Vehicle Title) — this is the specific form required for duplicate title applications in Michigan.
- ✗Trying to apply online or by mail — Michigan duplicate titles are generally processed in person at SOS branch offices.
- ✗Forgetting that an active lien may affect the duplicate title process — verify with the lienholder before applying.
Official links
Source verification
This page covers 3 researched claims about Michigan replace lost title:
Directly cited from official sources
Inferred — confirm with agency before acting
Researched from Michigan Secretary of State — Vehicle Services. Requirements can change — always verify with the official agency before submitting documents.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sell a car with a duplicate title?
In most states, yes. The process is the same as with an original title. Confirm with your state agency.
How long does a duplicate title take?
Processing time varies. Check with the Michigan Secretary of State — Vehicle Services for current processing times.
What if there is a lien on the vehicle?
If there is an active lien, the lienholder may need to apply for the duplicate title or must consent to the application.
Other Michigan vehicle tasks
Replace Lost Title in other states
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Last reviewed: 2026-05-10 · Reviewed by the Car Paperwork editorial team · Based on official Michigan Secretary of State — Vehicle Services sources · Independent resource · Not legal advice