How to replace a lost or stolen car in Connecticut

The title deed of your car is an incredibly important document. Without a title, you cannot sell or trade your vehicle, and you cannot register it if you are leaving Connecticut. If you are moving to Connecticut, you will need a title deed to register your vehicle with the state. The name does one thing - it proves ownership. However, this is a fragile document and is fairly easy to damage. It can also be lost or even stolen.

But there is also good news. You can apply for a duplicate title in Connecticut if you have lost or stolen your title, or if it has been damaged to the point where it cannot be disassembled. The State provides two ways to obtain a duplicate title: You can apply by mail or visit the DMV office in person. Both work equally well.

To apply for a duplicate title by mail:

First you need to fill out Form H-6B (Online Request for Duplicate Certificate of Title). This form must be mailed to you and cannot be completed online despite the name.
You can order the form over the phone if you wish: call 860-263-5700 for Hartford residents or 800-842-8222 for state residents.
Fill out the form and have it notarized.
Include a $25 fee for a duplicate header.
Submit your payment and information to the following address:

Department of Vehicles

Title block

60 State Street

Wethersfield, CT 06161

The new title must be delivered by mail within 15 business days. Note that it will be mailed to the owner or lien holder, so if the car is not paid off, the lien owner will take ownership unless you have signed a lien release.

To apply for a duplicate title in person:

Download and print or order Form H6B.
Fill out the form and have it notarized
Include a $25 fee for a duplicate header.
Bring a valid photo ID with you to the DMV office.
Bring your lien release with you if you are not the actual owner (if there is a deposit on the car)
Visit your local DMV office to collect your title

For more information, visit the Connecticut DMV website.