However, note that REG 166 is not applicable for electronic titles or for vehicles that are less than two model years old. You can provide this proof either by submitting a notarized letter confirming the lien is satisfied or by completing the “Lien Satisfied/Legal Owner/Title Holder Release” (REG 166) form. Once you’ve cleared your car loan, the DMV requires proof that the lien is settled before issuing a duplicate title.
In situations where the California car title is lost or stolen, only the lienholder can apply for and receive a replacement title. The lender has the right to repossess the vehicle if payments are missed. If your car was bought on finance, it likely has a lien, preventing you from selling it until it’s fully paid off. The titleholder Is still the old lienholder, even if you’ve paid it off. Once you have obtained a release from the entity that has the lien you must do what is called a “legal transfer” (to remove the entity that has the lien). The process is the same as that outlined above for duplicate titles.If you have a title that has a lienholder on it, and you have misplaced it, you will NOT be able to order a new 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. 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. 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.
Title changes due to death or divorce have a $15 application fee.