Replacing a Lost Title in Illinois

Replacing a Lost Title in Illinois

Your Illinois vehicle title proves that you own your vehicle, and you'll need this document should you ever wish to sell the car. Luckily, if you have a damaged title, lost vehicle title, or one that's been stolen, you can order a duplicate with just a few easy steps.

If your title has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you may apply for a duplicate from the Vehicle Records Processing Division of the Illinois Secretary of State.

Applying For a Duplicate Title

You can apply for a duplicate title in Illinois by mail or in person at your local IL SOS office. You'll need to:

  • Complete the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190).
    • You can also obtain a form at any Secretary of State local office, or by calling (800) 252-8980 or (312) 793-1010.
  • Provide payment for your $50 duplicate title fee, which does not include any registration fees or taxes that may be due when you apply.
  • Submit your application in person at your Secretary of State office or by mail to:

Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
501 S. 2nd St., Rm 424
Springfield, IL 62756

If you apply in person, be sure to bring identification and your registration certificate.

Continue reading below for information on expedited titles, adding/removing liens, changing your name, and purchasing vehicles without titles.

Expedited Duplicate Title

If you need a title right away, you can apply for an expedited title.

There is an additional $30 fee. Requests must be submitted by 12 p.m. and will be either shipped via UPS or available for pick-up the next at the Springfield Howlett Secretary of State office.

You can apply in person at a number of SOS locations, by mail, or by phone. Phone orders must be paid by credit card. You can call (800) 252-8980. Mail your request to:

Vehicle Services Department
Attn: Expedited Title
501 S. 2nd St., RM 424 
Springfield, IL 62756

Add/Remove a Lien From Your Title

To remove a lien during the duplicate title process, you must also submit:

  • A lien clearance letter or a lien contract letter that says the lien has been paid in full.
    OR
  • A court order that directs the Secretary of State's office to issue a title without the lien.

A new vehicle title without the lien information will be sent to your address.

Making Corrections on Your IL Title

You can apply for a corrected title in the following instances:

  • When you are changing or adding an owner's name due to marriage.
  • When you are removing an owner's name due to death or divorce.
  • When you are adding a lien to a vehicle.

Title changes due to death or divorce have a $15 application fee.

You'll need to use the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (Form VSD 190) and submit paperwork that backs up the death, marriage or other reason for changing the title. If your original title has been lost or stolen, you will need to check the box for a duplicate title instead of a corrected title.

Change Your Name on a Title

When changing your name on a title due to marriage or divorce, you will need to include your marriage license or divorce decree with your application. The process is the same as that outlined above for duplicate titles.

There is a $15 fee for this service.

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