Lucky Registration Services is a private registration service, licensed by the department, OL# 86193. We are not the DMV or any government agency. DMV fees vary by vehicle and are paid to the state; our service charge is separate. You can do this directly with the DMV without paying our service charge.
The short answer
If your California title is lost, stolen or damaged, apply for a replacement on the REG 227, Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REV. 9/2024), in person or by mail.
Selling a car without the title
A properly endorsed REG 227 can also be used to transfer a California-registered vehicle when the title is lost, stolen, missing or mutilated (VIRPM 11.055).
Forms
- REG 227
- REG 256 Statement of Facts, if DMV needs an explanation
- REG 166 Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release
What to bring
- A completed REG 227 signed by the registered owner(s)
- If DMV's record shows a lienholder, a notarized Section 5 (lienholder release). With no lienholder on record, no notary is needed.
- The fee
- The damaged title, if you still have it
Cost
DMV fees vary by vehicle. From the DMV fee page: replacement title $28 (VC 9265); transfer fee $15 if you're also transferring ownership. DMV announced that CPI-indexed $28 service fees go up on 2027-01-01. Check the DMV fee calculator on the day you apply.
Mistakes that get a packet rejected
- A lienholder on record but Section 5 isn't notarized
- Using a REG 227 to release a lien on a vehicle two model years old or newer. Only the California title can release that lien.
- Using a REG 227 when your registration card says "Nontransferable/No California Title Issued." You need a title from the state where it was last titled, or documents showing that state can't issue one. A bond may be required.
Deadlines
No deadline to replace a title you're keeping. If you're selling, the buyer's 10-day and 30-day transfer deadlines still apply. DMV says titles usually arrive by mail in 15–30 days. That's DMV's estimate.
Questions people ask
What form do I need for a lost title in California?
REG 227, Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title.
Do I need a notary?
Only if DMV's record shows a lienholder: then Section 5 of the REG 227 must be notarized. With no lienholder on record, no notary is needed.
How much is a duplicate title?
DMV lists $28 for a replacement title (CPI-indexed; DMV announced an increase on 2027-01-01). Our service charge is $75, separate from DMV fees.