Your car title is what proves you are the legal owner of your vehicle. If you own your vehicle, it is essential you also have the car title. With that said things can happen and your title may become damaged, destroyed, lost, or even stolen which will leave you wondering what you can do about it? The good news is that if you live in the state of Maine you can apply for a duplicate title for the above cited reasons. This is done through the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
Before you go ahead and apply for the duplicate title, it's important you look into whether you require one. In Maine any vehicle, motorcycle with engines 300 cc and higher, and trailers greater than 3,000 lbs, that are from the year 1995 or newer require a title. Keep in mind that the duplicate title can be requested by up to two lienholders and the owner. The title will automatically go to the first lienholder, unless you request differently.
Here are the steps you’ll need to take.
You can apply for the duplicate title online and just follow the steps.
The duplicate title can also be applied for in person or by mail. If you choose either of these steps, you'll need to fill out the Duplicate Title Application (Form MVT-8) and sign it. As well, the Release of Lien (Form MVT-12) must be completed. Be sure to have the fee with you, which is $33. If you are applying by mail you can send it by check.
If you wish to send your information by mail this is the address to send it to:
Vehicle Services – Title Section
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
Typically, it takes up to 12 days to process your application. You can find more information about replacing a lost or stolen car title in Maine by visiting the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles site.
