Obtaining a car title is a crucial step in vehicle ownership, whether you’re purchasing a new car, replacing a lost title, or transferring ownership. Understanding how to request a title and the associated mailing times can streamline this process. This guide provides essential information on title requests and what to expect after you’ve submitted your application.
Understanding Title Mailing Times for Online Orders
When you order a vehicle title online, processing and mailing times are important to consider. Generally, the timeframe depends on when you place your order during the business week. Here’s a breakdown of typical mailing schedules based on 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 to clarify these timeframes:
- If you request a title before 8 p.m. on a Tuesday, it will be printed on Wednesday and mailed out on Thursday.
- If you request a title after 8 p.m. on Tuesday, it will be printed on Thursday and mailed on Friday.
It’s important to note that a “business day” excludes weekends and state holidays. If you place your title order around a weekend or holiday, processing will begin on the next business day, which will affect the printing and mailing schedule accordingly. Keep this in mind when estimating the arrival of your car title.
Canceling Your Online Title Request
If you need to cancel your online title request, it’s critical to act quickly. Online transactions can only be canceled on the same day they were ordered. Ensure you review your request carefully before finalizing it to avoid needing to cancel.
Ensuring Your Title Reaches You: Address Accuracy
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will mail your new car title to the address currently listed on your title record. Accuracy is paramount to ensure timely and successful delivery.
If you are also the registered owner of the vehicle, you have the convenience of updating your address online before requesting a title replacement. This ensures that your title is sent to your current address without delay. You can typically manage address changes through the DMV’s online portal.
However, if someone else is listed as the registered owner of the vehicle, online address changes for the title record may not be possible. In such cases, it’s necessary to contact the Title Services Bureau directly at 1-518-486-4714 to update the address associated with your title. This step is crucial to avoid any mailing issues.
Important Note on Mail Forwarding: While the US Postal Service (USPS) offers mail forwarding services, there’s no guarantee that DMV documents, including your car title, will be forwarded to a new address. To avoid potential complications and delays, always verify and update your contact information directly with the DMV.
Expediting Your Title Delivery with Express Mail
For those who require their replacement title more urgently, express mail options are available for an additional fee. This service can expedite the delivery process once your title has been processed and printed.
However, it’s important to be aware that express mail service is not available between Friday at 8:30 pm and Sunday at 8:30 pm. Furthermore, choosing express mail only affects the shipping time; it does not accelerate the review or issuance process of the replacement title itself. Plan accordingly if you are considering this expedited option.
By understanding these procedures and timelines, requesting a car title can become a straightforward process, ensuring you have the necessary documentation for your vehicle.
