No one likes losing things. Least of all when those things are important documents. And if that document is a vehicle certificate of title, we know how frustrating it can be when that essential paper has been lost, misplaced, or damaged. In this guide, we will walk you through how to replace your California title online quickly and easily with eTags. This article will cover the following key points:
Use eTags© to Quickly Complete Your DMV Service. Renewals, Title Transfers and More, All Online!
*Why a Certificate of Title is So Important
*Who Can Apply for a Replacement Title
*How to Order Your California Replacement Title Online
Why a Certificate of Title is So Important
A vehicle title is more than just a piece of paper: it is proof of legal ownership of a vehicle. This includes cars, trucks, SUVs, RVs, motorbikes, and vessels. Without a title, a vehicle should not be driven and cannot be bought or sold. So, if your title has been defaced (stained, corrected, torn, etc) or has gone missing, it’s essential that you order a replacement as soon as possible.
Who Can Apply for a Replacement Title
In the state of California, only the titled owner of the vehicle may apply for a replacement document. This means that unless your name (or the name of your business) was printed on the front of the title and you are on record with the California DMV as such, you cannot order a duplicate. Only the legal owner of the car can seek a replacement title.
How to Order Your California Replacement Title Online
Ordering a replacement title online in California is easy with eTags. Here’s how to get it done:
1. Head over to eTags.com, select California as your state from our pop-up menu, and choose Replace Lost Title.
2. Confirm that your name appears on the front of the lost/damaged title that you are looking to replace.
3. Enter your license plate number and the last 3 digits of your VIN or your full VIN (vehicle identification number). Your VIN can be found on the driver’s side dashboard, on your insurance card, and sometimes on the bottom outer base of the driver’s seat.
4. Confirm your vehicle information. You will need the following details handy:
- Your full VIN
- Vehicle type
- Vehicle make
- Vehicle year
5. Provide the name of the registered owner. This can be either your first and last name, or the full name of the business that owns the vehicle.
6. Choose the reason for your replacement. Your option will be:
- Your title was lost
- Your title was stolen
- You never received your title from the DMV
7. Enter your contact information. You’ll need to provide both an email address and mobile phone number.
8. Supply a shipping address where you’d like your replacement title to be sent. If this address is different from the one on record with the DMV, please indicate this by clicking the blue box below and providing the address that is on file with the DMV as well. You may need to confirm your address to match the USPS format. Please review this and proceed.
9. This is your summary page. Take a moment to look over the details here, including contact, vehicle, and shipping info. If you need to make any changes, choose the edit button according to what needs correcting. If everything is good to go, click Checkout. 
10. This is your final step. Select the payment method that works best for you – credit card, PayPal, or affirm – enter your details, review our terms and conditions, and when you’re ready, click Place Order.
And that’s it! That’s how easy it is to order a replacement title with eTags. Now, if at any time you find you need a hand during this process, don’t hesitate to reach out. We have a team of title experts happy to assist. Because as always, at eTags, we’re here to help!
