Lost Car Title in Montana: How to Replace It
Replacing a lost car title in Montana costs $10.3, filed with Form MV7, Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (online (MVD Online Services), mail, in-person (county treasurer)), with typical processing of Up to 4 weeks (some title work up to 8). That's the entire DIY cost — form-prep services charge $150+ for the same paperwork.
Verified against official Montana sources · 2026-06-12 · Reviewed by the CarWhere Vehicle Data Team
State fee
$10.3
Form
Form MV7, Application for Replacement Certificate of Title
How to file
online (MVD Online Services) · mail · in-person (county treasurer)
Processing time
Up to 4 weeks (some title work up to 8)
Official source: mvdmt.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 Montana?
$10.3, paid to the state with Form MV7, Application for Replacement Certificate of Title. Verified against the Montana 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 Montana?
Up to 4 weeks (some title work up to 8), per the state's published guidance (available online (MVD Online Services), mail, in-person (county treasurer)). Expedited options vary by state.
Can I sell a car in Montana 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 $10.3 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 Montana titling agency (linked above). Fees change by statute — always confirm against the official page before filing. Cite this page: CarWhere, "Lost Car Title in Montana," carwhere.com/titles/lost-title/montana, verified 2026-06-12.