Lost, damaged, or never received your District of Columbia title? You still have legal ways to sell. Here's how it works in 2026, based on official District of Columbia rules — plus the fastest way to just get a cash offer.
The District of Columbia handles titles through DC DMV, and you can often request a duplicate online. Here's how to replace a lost title and sell.
Complete the Certificate of Title/Temporary Tag Application (Form DMV-CTA-001) with the $30 fee — online (if nothing on the title is changing), by mail, or in person. All owners must sign, and the duplicate is mailed to the primary owner within about 10 business days.
Before DC DMV will title a vehicle, all outstanding debts owed to the DC government must be satisfied (tickets, fees, and the like), and the primary owner must be a DC resident with a DC DMV credential. If a lien was paid off, bring proof — a financing letter, a stamped-paid loan agreement, or a lien-release-stamped title.
Tell us the year and condition — we'll tell you exactly what's needed and make a real cash offer, with free towing at pickup.
Get My Free Offer →The quick reference for signing your car over the right way in District of Columbia.
Three things worth confirming before you hand over the keys.
Running or not, title or no title — get a real cash offer in about two minutes, with free towing.
Get My Free Offer →This guide is general information based on District of Columbia rules current as of 2026, not legal advice. Requirements can change and situations vary — confirm details with the official state source (official District of Columbia DMV page) before acting.