How to replace a lost or stolen car in Georgia
Auto repair

How to replace a lost or stolen car in Georgia

09.11.2022 /

Ownership of your car is the only thing that proves ownership. If it is lost, you will find that there are many things you cannot do. For example, if you have just moved to Georgia, you cannot register your car, which means you cannot legally drive a car. If you are moving from Georgia, you will not be able to register in your new home state. You also cannot sell or trade your vehicle. Headers for such important documents are surprisingly vulnerable and can be damaged beyond legibility, lost, or even stolen.

If you find yourself in this situation, you can get a duplicate title in the state of Georgia. You can do this by mail or in person at your local DMV office. In both cases, you need to know a few things. Whether you are going in person or by mail, follow these steps:

  • Complete Form MV-1 (Name/Tag Application).
  • Submit Form T-4 for each satisfied bondholder (one for each bondholder). A collateral holder is anyone who has title to a vehicle, such as the bank that issued the original car loan. If you never claimed clear title after paying for the car, then DMV GA will still list it as having a lien.
  • You must provide proof of identification (your state driver's license will work).
  • You must pay the Duplicate Title Fee ($8).
  • If you have a damaged title, it must be submitted for destruction.

AttentionA: All title holders must appear in person at the DMV. If any original owner is unable to attend, a Limited Power of Attorney form will need to be signed.

Take all this information with you to the DMV office.

Apply by mail

  • Take all the documents mentioned above and mail them (with a copy of your ID) to your local DMV office.

If your duplicate title is lost in the mail

If you were mailed a duplicate header but never delivered, you need to follow these steps (note that you will no longer be charged):

  • Complete Form T-216 (Confirmation of Georgia Title Lost in the Mail).
  • Complete Form MV-1 and attach it to Form T-216.
  • Submit both forms within 60 days of the original request for a duplicate header.
  • Show insurance, proof of odometer accuracy, and a valid driver's license at the DMV office.

For more information, visit the official State DMV website.

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