Lost the Title? You Can Still Sell Your Car in Florida.

The duplicate title process, in plain English

It's one of the most common calls we get: "We'd sell the car, but we can't find the title anywhere." Good news — in Florida, a lost title is a paperwork errand, not a roadblock. In many cases we can help you request the duplicate electronically the same day we visit, so it never even delays the sale.

How a duplicate title works in Florida

1. The owner of record applies. Florida's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) issues duplicates to the titled owner — online, by mail, or in person at the Hillsborough County Tax Collector's office.
2. You'll need ID and the vehicle information. Driver's license or state ID, plus the vehicle's VIN (it's on the registration, the insurance card, or the driver's-side dashboard).
3. Fast options exist. Florida offers expedited "fast title" service for a modest additional fee, and electronic applications are often processed quickly.

A few common wrinkles (all solvable)

Still a loan on the car? The lender may hold the title electronically. We contact them, confirm the payoff in writing, pay them directly and pay you the difference — no duplicate needed in many cases.

The titled owner has passed away? The estate's representative can order the duplicate once they have signing authority. We handle estate transfers weekly and coordinate with your attorney at no charge. See our guide to selling a vehicle from an estate.

The title is from another state? Also workable — the process runs through that state, and we'll point you to exactly what's needed.

Boats and RVs too

Lost boat titles and RV titles follow similar duplicate processes in Florida (boats also involve registration through FLHSMV). We buy both, trailers included, and handle their different paperwork.