Losing or damaging your car title can be a stressful experience. Whether it’s been misplaced, stolen, or simply deteriorated over time, you’ll need a replacement title to legally sell or transfer your vehicle. Fortunately, obtaining a duplicate car title is a straightforward process, especially if you’ve ordered it online. This guide will walk you through the typical mailing times and essential information you need to know when ordering a new car title.
Understanding the Online Title Ordering Process
Many Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) now offer online services to request replacement titles, making the process more convenient than ever. Once you’ve submitted your request and it’s been processed, understanding the mailing timeframe is crucial to know when to expect your new document. The following table outlines the standard mailing schedule based on when you place your order:
Mailing Timeframes for Online Orders (Eastern Time)
| ORDERED | PRINTED | MAILED |
|---|---|---|
| Before 8 pm | Next business day | 2nd business day |
| Monday – Thursday after 8 pm | 2 business days after ordered | 3rd business day |
| Friday, Saturday or Sunday | Monday | Tuesday |
Examples of Mailing Times
To clarify the schedule, let’s look at a couple of examples:
- If you order a title before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, it will be printed on Wednesday and mailed on Thursday.
- If you order a title after 8 p.m. on Tuesday, it will be printed on Thursday and mailed on Friday.
Business Days and Holidays
It’s important to note what constitutes a ‘business day’. A business day is any weekday that is not a state holiday. If you place your title certificate order during or just before a weekend or a state holiday, processing will not begin until the next business day. Keep this in mind when estimating the arrival of your replacement title.
Cancellation Policy
If you realize you’ve made a mistake or no longer need the replacement title, online transactions can typically only be canceled on the same day they were ordered. If you need to cancel, act quickly on the same day you submitted your request.
Address Information for Mailing
Mailing to the Address on Record
The DMV will mail your new title to the current address they have on record for your vehicle’s title. This is a security measure to ensure the title reaches the rightful owner. It’s critical to ensure your address is up-to-date with the DMV before ordering a replacement.
Updating Your Address
If you need to change your address, and your vehicle registration is in your name, you can often update it online before requesting a replacement title. Check your local DMV website for address change services. However, if someone else is listed on the registration, online address changes for the title might not be possible. In such cases, you may need to contact the Title Services Bureau directly to update your address before ordering a new title. For specific instructions or assistance, contact the Title Services Bureau at 1-518-486-4714.
Note: While the US Postal Service (USPS) offers mail forwarding, there’s no guarantee that DMV documents will be forwarded. Always ensure your contact information with the DMV is current to avoid potential issues.
Expedited Shipping Options
Requesting Express Mail
For those needing their replacement title more urgently, express mail options are often available for an additional fee. This service can expedite the delivery of your title once it has been processed and mailed. However, be aware that express mail service might have restrictions during certain periods, such as between Friday evening and Sunday evening. Additionally, choosing express mail only speeds up delivery time, it does not accelerate the application review or title issuance process itself.
By understanding these mailing timelines and procedures, you can navigate the process of getting a replacement car title efficiently and ensure you receive your important document as quickly as possible.
