Lost Car Title in Massachusetts: How to Replace It

Replacing a lost car title in Massachusetts costs $25, filed with Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title (online (MyMassGov), mail). That's the entire DIY cost — form-prep services charge $150+ for the same paperwork.

Verified against official Massachusetts sources · 2026-06-12 · Reviewed by the CarWhere Vehicle Data Team

State fee

$25

Form

Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title

How to file

online (MyMassGov) · mail

Processing time

Varies

Official source: www.mass.gov

Buying or selling while the title's being replaced?

A missing title is the moment to check the vehicle itself. The $9.99 Full VIN Report shows the federal record — recalls, owner complaints, service bulletins — plus the original window sticker where available, before any money moves. Run the report →

FAQ

How much does a duplicate car title cost in Massachusetts?

$25, paid to the state with Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title. Verified against the Massachusetts titling agency, 2026-06-12. Form-prep services charge $150+ for this same paperwork; the state fee is all that's required.

How long does a replacement title take in Massachusetts?

Processing times vary; Massachusetts's titling agency publishes current estimates. Filing is available online (MyMassGov), mail.

Can I sell a car in Massachusetts while the title is lost?

Generally no — you need the duplicate in hand first, and buyers should insist on it. If you're the buyer in this situation, run the VIN before money moves: the $9.99 CarWhere Full VIN Report shows the federal record (recalls, complaints, service bulletins) and the original window sticker where available, so you know what you're buying while the paperwork catches up.

Do I need a service to replace a lost title?

No. Replacing a lost title is a standard DMV transaction costing $25 that owners complete directly. Paid services charge $150+ to pre-fill the same public form — useful only if your situation is genuinely complicated (no proof of ownership, out-of-state liens, deceased owner).

Sources: fee, form, and timeline from the Massachusetts titling agency (linked above). Fees change by statute — always confirm against the official page before filing. Cite this page: CarWhere, "Lost Car Title in Massachusetts," carwhere.com/titles/lost-title/massachusetts, verified 2026-06-12.