How to Get a Copy of Your Car Title Fast in Texas

The fastest way to get a copy of your Texas car title is to visit a Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Service Center with a completed Form VTR-34 (Application for a Certified Copy of Title) and a valid photo ID; in most cases, you’ll walk out the same day with a certified copy. If you can’t go in person, you can mail the form to TxDMV, but mail-in processing typically takes about 7–10 business days after receipt, plus mailing time. Below is what to bring, how to do it, costs, and key rules (including what happens if there’s a lien).

Fastest Option: Same-Day Certified Copy at a TxDMV Regional Service Center

TxDMV Regional Service Centers can issue a Certified Copy of Texas Title over the counter. Appointments are strongly recommended to minimize wait times, and you should ensure you are the recorded owner or lienholder (or have proper authorization) before you go.

What to Bring

Bring original documents and identification so staff can verify your authority and issue the certified copy immediately.

• Government-issued photo ID (e.g., Texas DL/ID, U.S. passport) for the recorded owner or lienholder.
• Form VTR-34 (Application for a Certified Copy of Title). You can fill it out in advance; in-person applicants generally do not need notarization when signing in front of staff.
• Vehicle information (VIN and/or Texas license plate number).
• If you are an authorized representative: the owner/lienholder’s original signed and notarized VTR-34 or a notarized authorization letter, plus a copy of their ID, and your ID.
• If there is (or was) a lien: proof the lien is released (e.g., a lien release letter or Form VTR-266). If an active lien remains, only the lienholder can obtain the title copy.
• Payment for the certified copy fee (TxDMV accepts multiple payment types; card payments may include a convenience fee).

Having these items in hand ensures the Regional Service Center can validate your request and issue the title copy without delays.

Steps at the Regional Service Center

Follow these steps to secure a same-day certified copy efficiently, especially if you’re up against a sale or need immediate proof of ownership.

1. Book an appointment at a TxDMV Regional Service Center and verify its hours and accepted payment methods.
2. Complete Form VTR-34 and gather your ID and any lien-related documents.
3. Check in at your appointment, present your documents, and sign as directed.
4. Pay the fee and receive your Certified Copy of Title on the spot (subject to verification and eligibility).

Most straightforward requests are fulfilled during the visit; complex cases or record discrepancies may require additional review.

Cost and Timing

The certified copy fee charged by TxDMV is modest (typically $2). In-person issuance is generally same-day once your authority and records are verified. Card processing fees may apply. Bring exact payment options listed for that Regional Service Center to avoid delays.

Can’t Go in Person? Use the Mail-In Option

If you are out of state, cannot travel, or prefer not to visit a Regional Service Center, you can request a Certified Copy of Title by mail. Mailed requests take longer and must be properly notarized and complete to avoid being returned.

How to Mail Your Request

Prepare a complete, trackable mail packet to ensure TxDMV can process without follow-up.

1. Download and complete Form VTR-34. For mail-in requests, your signature must be notarized.
2. Include a legible photocopy of your acceptable photo ID.
3. If applicable, include lien release documentation (for paid-off liens not yet cleared in the system).
4. Include payment for the certified copy fee by check or money order payable to Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
5. Mail your packet to the address listed on the current VTR-34 instructions. Use a trackable mailing method.

Mail-in processing is typically about 7–10 business days after TxDMV receives your packet, plus mailing time back to you. Incomplete packets are the most common cause of delays.

Where to Mail

Always use the mailing address shown on the latest Form VTR-34 instructions, as addresses can change. Do not mail to your county tax office for this transaction; certified copies are issued by TxDMV’s Title & Registration Division or in person at Regional Service Centers.

Special Situations and Rules You Should Know

There’s an Active Lien on the Vehicle

If a lien is still recorded, only the lienholder can obtain the certified copy. If you’ve paid off the loan but the lien remains on record, obtain a proper lien release (for example, Form VTR-266 or a lienholder letter on official letterhead with the VIN and loan details) so the record can be cleared or so your request can be honored.

Joint Ownership

Any recorded owner or the recorded lienholder may request a certified copy. If you send a representative, you must provide original, notarized authorization and the required IDs. If your title lists multiple owners with restrictive conjunctions or special designations, bringing any co-owner’s ID or additional documentation can help avoid questions.

Electronic Title or Need a Paper Title for a Pending Sale

If your Texas title is electronic and you need a paper title immediately (for example, to complete a private-party sale), ask about a same-day “Quick Title” at a TxDMV Regional Service Center. An additional Quick Title fee applies (generally $10), and eligibility rules apply. This is distinct from a certified copy and results in a negotiable paper title the same day.

Address or Name Changes and Corrections

A certified copy reproduces the information already on file; it doesn’t change your name, address, or correct errors. If you need a corrected title (e.g., name change, typo fix), consult your county tax assessor-collector or TxDMV for the correct process and forms. If you’re mailing a certified-copy request, TxDMV will mail it to the address on record; submit an address change first if needed, or go in person to receive it during your visit.

Key Forms, Links, and Tips

Use official TxDMV resources to ensure you have the latest forms, locations, and rules.

• Form VTR-34 (Application for a Certified Copy of Title): txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/form_files/VTR-34.pdf
• Release of Lien (Form VTR-266): txdmv.gov/sites/default/files/form_files/VTR-266.pdf
• Regional Service Centers and appointments: txdmv.gov/regional-service-centers and public.txdmv.gov/appointments/
• General Title help and FAQs: txdmv.gov

Checking the latest form instructions and booking an appointment before you travel will save time and prevent repeat trips.

Summary

To get a copy of your car title fast in Texas, go in person to a TxDMV Regional Service Center with Form VTR-34, valid ID, and any lien documentation—most people receive a Certified Copy of Title on the spot. If you can’t visit in person, mail a notarized VTR-34, ID copy, and fee to TxDMV using the address on the form; allow roughly 7–10 business days after receipt plus mailing. If your title is electronic and you need paper immediately, ask about same-day Quick Title service at a Regional Service Center.

Can you expedite a car title in Texas?

Private automotive title companies can quickly assist those needing a duplicate title in expediting the process. The Texas Department of Revenue authorizes these services and often provides same-day or next-day title processing for an additional fee.

Can I get a duplicate title the same day?

Most, if not all, states mail the replacement title. This can take from two to six weeks from the date of application. Your state may provide an express service for an additional fee. Some states will even turn the new title around in a day if you apply in person.

Can I get a copy of my car title the same day in Texas?

Yes, you can get a duplicate Texas car title on the same day by applying in person at a TxDMV Regional Service Center, though applying by mail will take approximately two weeks. You will need to fill out the Application for a Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34), provide a valid photo ID and the $5.45 fee, which can be paid by cash, check, or money order. 
Steps to Get a Same-Day Duplicate Title:

1. Locate a TxDMV Regional Service Center: Visit the TxDMV.gov website to find the nearest location. 
2. Complete Form VTR-34: Download and fill out the Application for a Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34). 
3. Gather Documents and Payment:
   • Bring your valid photo ID. 
   • Provide the $5.45 fee in cash, check, or money order. Make checks or money orders payable to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. 
4. Submit Your Application: Present the completed form, your ID, and the fee to the service center. 

Important Considerations:

• All Registered Owners Must Sign: If there are multiple registered owners on the title, all must sign the application. 
• Alternative to In-Person: If applying by mail, you’ll need to mail the completed form with a copy of your ID and pay a $2.00 fee, but it will take approximately two weeks to receive your title. 

How can I get a quick title in Texas?

Visit the nearest TxDMV Regional Service Centers. Complete the Application for a Certified Copy of Title (Form VTR-34). NOTE: All recorded owners must sign the form and provide photo ID (or a copy) at time of application. Provide a valid photo ID and $5.45 fee by check, cash, or money order.