Obtaining your car title is important because it confirms your legal ownership of that vehicle. If you own your vehicle outright, meaning there are no liens against it, and no outstanding car loans, you will want to get the title transferred into your name and in your possession quickly. This document is required to register your car with the state, as well as to sell it later on. Generally, you also need this proof of ownership for car insurance. If you do still have a car payment, then you still want a copy of the title, which will reflect the lienholder’s information as well as your own.
Getting your vehicle title can be tricky, as there are several forms you need to fill out and return to the correct government department, as well as associated fees. You can do this on your own, but CarTitles.com can also work on your behalf, saving you time and frustration. If you decide to do this on your own, follow the steps below; if you decide you would rather let someone else navigate the process, we are here to help.
You will need to complete the necessary paperwork, including the following:
There are also several fees associated with the vehicle title recovery process:
In Michigan, you have 15 days to transfer the title after the vehicle is purchased; otherwise, a $15 late fee will apply. These fees are handled by your local Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) office.
To remove a lienholder from your vehicle title, you need the lender to file a lien release. Most lenders will utilize the Electronic Lien & Title program (ELT), in which case they will send the information electronically to the SOS office. You then need to request a paper title be sent to you. If your lender sends you a paper version of the lien release, then you will need to take that to your local SOS office to apply for the corrected (line-free) title. You can also mail the documents to the SOS office if you prefer. While there is no fee to remove a lienholder, there is still a fee to process the corrected title.
As you can see, there are several moving parts when it comes to obtaining, replacing, or transferring a vehicle title. Forms must be completed precisely, lienholders must do their part to release the lien, fees must be paid, and so on. Though you can do this on your own, with CarTitles.com, you don’t have to. We are experts at Michigan car title recovery. Let us alleviate the headaches so you can focus on what’s most important to you.
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You will need to visit your local Secretary of State (SOS) branch to register your out-of-state vehicle in Michigan. Complete the Registration and Title Application (Form TR-11L) and take your current title, your valid photo ID, and proof of Michigan no-fault insurance. You will need to pay the $15 title fee, possible additional title fees, and any applicable sales tax as well. This process must be completed within 10 days of moving to Michigan.
To replace a lost car title, you can apply for a duplicate title online through the Michigan Secretary of State (SOS) website, or by visiting a local SOS office in person. You will need your driver’s license number, VIN, and license plate number. There is a $15 fee for the replacement car title.
You will need to fill out the Registration and Title Application (Form TR-11L) and return it to your local SOS branch either in person or by mail, along with your driver’s license, VIN, and the vehicle’s current mileage. You will also need to pay the $15 fee. If you choose the in-person option, you will receive your replacement title that same day.
You will need to visit an SOS location with the death certificate, the vehicle’s current title, and the Form TR-29 (Certification from the Heir to a Vehicle) if the estate is not in probate. If the vehicle was titled jointly, then the surviving party can transfer it into his or her own name with the death certificate. If you need any assistance navigating this process, reach out to our team!
You can apply online for a duplicate car title at Michigan.gov/SOS, or you can visit a local SOS branch or submit the Registration and Title Application (Form TR-11L) by mail. The fee is $15 if you are completing this by mail or online. If you go in person, the fee is $20, but you will receive the title on that day.
Yes! We are experts at all of Michigan’s car title processes. Let us simplify the process and take the stress off of you. Whether you are looking for a new or replacement car title, or you have a more complicated situation with a court-ordered title or lien release, we can help.
Most lenders in Michigan will utilize the Electronic Lien & Title (ELT) system, so once your loan is paid off, they will send that information to the SOS office, and you will receive a copy of the lien release. You’ll need to take that to the SOS office to request a new, clear title. This can be completed in person or by mail. If you are having difficulties reaching your lender, or you are not wanting to take this process on alone, our team is ready to assist.
