WA📋 Replace Lost Title

Washington Lost Vehicle Title Replacement

If your vehicle title is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can apply for a duplicate title through the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). Use this checklist to prepare your application.

Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) ↗

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Quick answer

To replace a lost Washington title, the owner of record applies to the Washington DOL for a replacement title, typically using the Affidavit of Loss / Release of Interest process. If a lien is recorded, the lienholder may need to release its interest. Verify the current process and fee with the Washington DOL.

State: Washington
Agency: Washington State Department of Licensing
Process: Replace Lost Title
Notary required: Conditional
Last verified: 2026-07-06
Official source: Washington State Department of Licensing ↗

⚠ Independent Checklist — Not an Official SourceThis is an independent checklist based on official state motor vehicle sources. Requirements in Washington can vary by vehicle type, lien status, county, and transaction details. Always confirm with your official state motor vehicle agency before submitting documents or fees. This is not legal advice and is not affiliated with any DMV or government agency.

📋 Data note: Some fields on this page are based on general guidance and may not reflect the latest state requirements. Confirm specific details with the official state agency.

Key facts from official sources

The registered owner applies to the Washington DOL for a replacement title, typically via the Affidavit of Loss / Release of Interest process.

Washington DOL — Title and Registration ↗

Confirm current details

Quick reference

Notary required?

◆Conditional

Applicant Checklist

Items the applicant typically needs to prepare or provide.

Government-issued photo IDRequired(applicant)

Required to verify your identity.

Payment for application feeRequired(applicant)

Check the official state DMV for the current fee amount.

Duplicate title application formRequired(applicant)

The official form required to apply for a replacement title. Name and form number vary by state.

Current vehicle registration (if available)Conditional(applicant)

May be required to verify vehicle information.

Lien release (if loan was paid off)Conditional(applicant)

If you paid off your loan but the lien is still on record, you will need a lien release letter.

Special requirements

Notarization◆Conditional

Washington's Affidavit of Loss / Release of Interest may need to be notarized or certified depending on how and where it is signed; confirm with the Washington DOL.

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

✗Applying when you are not the registered owner of record.
✗Not obtaining a release of interest from an active lienholder.
✗Assuming a replacement title clears an outstanding lien.

Official links

↗Washington DOL — Title and Registrationdol.wa.gov

Source verification

This page covers 1 researched claims about Washington replace lost title:

Directly cited from official sources

Inferred — confirm with agency before acting

Researched from Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). 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 Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) 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 Washington vehicle tasks

🚗Sell a Car→🔑Buy a Used Car→📄Title Transfer→🗺️Out-of-State Registration→

Tools and resources

🧮Estimate title transfer costs in Washington→🧮Estimate registration costs in Washington→🧾Estimate car sales tax in Washington→🚗Estimate total cost to buy in Washington→📄Washington bill of sale generator→📊Compare replace lost title across all 50 states→📖What is a car title?→📖Can you sell a car without a title?→🗂Car paperwork explained→

Last reviewed: 2026-07-06 · Reviewed by the Car Paperwork editorial team · Based on official Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) sources · Independent resource · Not legal advice