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The DMV VTR 34 form is a vital document for individuals in Texas who have lost, stolen, or damaged their original motor vehicle title. This form serves as an application for a Certified Copy of the Texas Title, essentially replacing the original document. It is important to note that only individuals who are the recorded owner, lienholder, or their authorized agents can complete this application. The submission process allows applicants to either deliver their forms in person or send them by mail to a designated Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Service Center. Fees associated with this application vary based on the method of submission, costing $2.00 by mail and $5.45 when filed in person. Accompanying this form, applicants must ensure they submit a valid government-issued photo ID, along with an original signature and any necessary documentation such as a release of lien if applicable. The form also emphasizes the importance of carefully following a checklist to meet all requirements before submitting it to avoid delays. Ultimately, understanding the nuances of the VTR 34 form is essential for a smooth application process and to secure a Certified Copy of Title efficiently.

Dmv Vtr 34 Example

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

Information

Application for a

Certified Copy of Title

This form is used to apply for a Certified Copy of Texas Title for a motor vehicle if the original Texas Certificate of Title is lost, stolen, or mutilated. A Certified Copy of Texas Title replaces the original Texas Certificate of Title and any previously issued Certified Copy of Texas Title. The applicant (person signing this application) must be the owner or lienholder on the department’s motor vehicle record, or an authorized agent of the owner/lienholder. Submit this completed application and all required documents in person or by mail to a Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) Regional Service Center (see page 2 for locations).

Note: All original documents (or certified copies of documents) submitted to a TxDMV Regional Service Center will be returned.

IMPORTANT: Application Checklist

Check each box to acknowledge the following requirements are met:

The fee is $2.00 by mail or $5.45 in person.

Mailed fees must be in the form of a personal check, cashier's check, or money order payable to the TxDMV. Do not mail cash. Credit/debit cards and temporary checks are not accepted. Fees are non-refundable.

Copy of acceptable government issued photo ID for -each recorded owner and/or agent is required.

Refer to “Applicant Identification Requirements” on page 2 for requirements. All IDs must be valid and expired not more than 12 months. Note: Photocopies, faxes, or scans are acceptable for photo identification (ID), employee ID, business cards, and powers of attorney.

Original signature(s) are required on this application (black or blue ink).

If the vehicle is jointly owned, original signatures are required of -each owner or a power of attorney is required for each owner. Original, signed release of lien is required if a lien is shown on the department’s record.

An original, signed release of lien must be obtained from the lienholder(s) when the current owner named on the vehicle record financed the vehicle and when a lender(s) remains listed as a lienholder on the department’s vehicle record. This original, signed release of lien must be submitted with the application even if the vehicle loan has been paid in full. The department cannot automatically remove a lien from a vehicle record. Refer to the “Lien on Title Record” section on page 2. Note: Photocopies, scans, faxes, and emails are not acceptable.

An acceptable form of signature authority is required if applying on behalf of an entity or using a power of attorney.

Refer to “Entity Applicant” or “Using Power(s) of Attorney” in the “Applicant Identification Requirements” section on page 2 for requirements.

Vehicle Information

Vehicle Identification Number

Year

Make

Body Style

Model

 

I

I

I

Title/Document Number (if unknown, leave blank)

Texas License Plate Number (if unknown, leave blank)

 

Recipient Information – To whom the certified copy will be given or mailed

 

First Name (or Entity Name)

Middle Name

Last Name

Suffix (if any)

Mailing Address

City

State

Zip

Email

Phone Number

Government Issued Identification – Complete (as needed) and provide photocopy of each ID (see page 2)

Type: U.S. Driver License/ID Card Issued By (state or country)

ID Number

Expiration Date

Passport Other

Type: U.S. Driver License/ID Card

Issued By (state or country)

ID Number

Expiration Date

Passport

Other

 

 

 

Type: U.S. Driver License/ID Card

Issued By (state or country)

ID Number

Expiration Date

Passport Other

Type: U.S. Driver License/ID Card Issued By (state or country)

ID Number

Expiration Date

Passport

Other

 

 

Certification – State law makes falsifying information a third degree felony

I, the undersigned, hereby certify I am the recorded owner, lienholder, or verified agent of the owner or lienholder of the vehicle described above, and the original title issued for the vehicle has been lost, destroyed, or mutilated.

Signature of Applicant/Owner

Printed Name (Same as Signature)

Date

Signature of Additional Applicant(s)/Owner(s) (if any)

Printed Name (Same as Signature)

Date

VTR-34 Rev 04/19

Form available online at www.TxDMV.gov

Page 1 of 2

Application for a Certified Copy of Title

IMPORTANT: Applicant Identification Requirements

Complete the “Government Issued Identification” section on page 1 with the applicable information for each ID required below:

Individual Applicant(s)

If a vehicle is titled in the name of an individual, the individual must sign this application and provide a copy of their government issued photo ID.

MULTIPLE INDIVIDUALS: If a vehicle is titled in the name of multiple individuals, each individual must sign this form, and each must provide a copy of their government issued photo ID.

Entity Applicant

If a vehicle is titled in the name of an entity, an agent representing the entity must sign the application.

Additional Requirements: Agent must provide letter of signature authority on letterhead, printed business card (containing the agent’s name), or employee ID connecting the signing agent to the entity (may be copies) and a copy of the agent’s government issued photo ID.

Lienholder Applicant

If the vehicle has a recorded lien, the lienholder (or an agent of the lienholder) may apply for a Certified Copy of Texas Title and sign the application.

Additional Requirements: If the lienholder is an individual, a copy of the individual’s current government issued photo ID must be provided. If the lienholder is an entity, letter of signature authority on letterhead, printed business card (containing the agent’s name), or employee ID connecting the signing agent to the entity (may be copies) and a copy of the agent’s government issued photo ID must be provided.

Using Power(s) of Attorney

If a power of attorney (POA) is used, the above requirements apply for both the individual or entity granting the POA and the individual or entity being granted POA. For an individual (whether granting or being granted the POA), a copy of that individual’s government issued photo ID is required. For an entity (whether granting or being granted the POA), both a copy of the agent’s government issued photo ID and a letter of signature authority on letterhead, printed business card (with the agent’s name), or employee ID connecting the signing agent to the entity (may be copies) are required.

Notes:

If the recipient is not the applicant but the recipient will be obtaining the Certified Copy of Title in-person, the recipient’s acceptable government issued photo ID is also required at the time they are receiving the Certified Copy of Title.

Court documents, such as divorce decrees and court orders, must be either original documents or certified copies. All original documents (or certified copies of documents) will be returned.

Acceptable Government Issued Photo Identification

The following are the only acceptable forms of government issued photo ID for an Application for Certified Copy of Texas Title:

• Driver license or ID issued by a state or territory of the U.S.,

The department will accept an identification for

Texas handgun license,

up to 12 months after expiration.

U.S. or foreign passport,

U.S. military ID,

If an individual other than the owner(s) is

North Atlantic Treaty Organization ID,

ID issued under a Status of Forces Agreement,

receiving the certified copy of title in-person, a

U.S. Department of Homeland Security ID,

valid photo ID of the recipient must be

U.S. Department of State ID,

presented and written on page 1 of this form.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services ID document.

Lien on Title Record

If the current owner(s) of the motor vehicle had a lien (loan or financing) of any kind on the motor vehicle, even if it has been paid off, the department’s records may still show the lien. Please contact the lienholder and request an original, signed release of lien.

An original, signed release of lien on the lienholder’s original letterhead or on the Prescribed Form for Release of Lien (Form VTR-266) is required if there is a lien shown on the department’s record. A photocopy, scan, fax, or email is not acceptable. If the release of lien is on the Form VTR-266, the lienholder’s agent signing the Form VTR-266 must attach a letter of signature authority on letterhead, printed business card (with the agent’s name), or employee ID that connects the agent to the entity (copies acceptable).

Application by Mail – $2.00 Fee

Mail this application, $2.00 fee, copy of ID(s), and any other documentation to:

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

1601-A Southwest Parkway

Wichita Falls, TX 76302

Please allow at least 15 days to receive your Certified Copy of Title when mailing an application.

The department is unable to provide a status of an application. Application tracking is unavailable.

Original documentation submitted with the application will be returned to the recipient listed on page 1.

Application in Person – $5.45 Fee

*Applications should not be mailed to the locations below, except Wichita Falls*

ABILENE – 4210 N. Clack St., Abilene, TX 79601

 

HOUSTON – 2110 East Governors Cir., Houston, TX 77092

AMARILLO – 5715 Canyon Dr., Building H, Amarillo, TX 79110

LONGVIEW – 4549 W. Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604

AUSTIN – 1001 E. Parmer Ln., Ste. A, Austin, TX 78753

 

LUBBOCK – 135 Slaton Rd., Lubbock, TX 79404

BEAUMONT – 8550 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, TX 77708

 

ODESSA – 3901 East Highway 80, Odessa, TX 79761

CORPUS CHRISTI – 602 N. Staples St., Ste. 130, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

PHARR – 600 West Expressway 83, Pharr, TX 78577

DALLAS – 1925 E. Beltline Rd., Ste. 100, Carrollton, TX 75006

 

SAN ANTONIO – 15150 Nacogdoches Rd., Ste. 100, San Antonio, TX 78247

EL PASO – 1227 Lee Trevino, Ste. 100, El Paso, TX 79907

 

WACO – 2203 Austin Ave., Waco, TX 76701

FORT WORTH – 2425 Gravel Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76118

 

WICHITA FALLS 1601-A Southwest Pkwy., Wichita Falls, TX 76302

VTR-34 Rev 04/19

Form available online at www.TxDMV.gov

Page 2 of 2

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Fact Description
Purpose The VTR-34 form is used to request a certified copy of a Texas Certificate of Title for a motor vehicle when the original is lost, stolen, or damaged.
Governing Law This form is governed by Texas Transportation Code, Title 7, Subtitle B, Chapter 501.
Filing Fee A fee of $2.00 is required for mailing applications, while applications submitted in person incur a fee of $5.45. All fees are non-refundable.
Owner/Lienholder Requirement To file, the applicant must be the vehicle's owner, lienholder, or an authorized agent, as per the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Signature Requirement Original signatures are mandatory on the application. This includes signatures from each owner if the title is jointly held.
ID Requirements A government-issued photo ID is necessary for all parties involved in the application process. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
Lien Release Requirement If a lien exists, an original signed release of lien is required. This must accompany the application even if the loan is paid in full.
Submission Methods The completed VTR-34 form can be submitted either by mail or in person at a designated Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Regional Service Center.
Application Processing Time When mailing an application, applicants should allow a minimum of 15 days to receive their certified copy of the title.
Return of Original Documents All original documents or certified copies provided will be returned to the recipient listed in the application.

Guidelines on Utilizing Dmv Vtr 34

Filling out the DMV VTR-34 form requires careful attention to detail. This application is essential for individuals seeking to obtain a certified copy of their vehicle title. Completing the form accurately and supplying the necessary documentation are key steps in ensuring a smooth application process.

  1. Download the Form: Access the VTR-34 form online at the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles website or obtain a hard copy at a regional service center.
  2. Complete Vehicle Information: Fill in the required vehicle details, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), year, make, model, and body style.
  3. Input Title/Document Number: Leave this blank if you do not know the title number. You can also check the Texas DMV website for any additional details if needed.
  4. Enter Recipient Information: Provide the name, mailing address, email, and phone number of the person who will receive the certified copy.
  5. Gather Government-Issued IDs: Prepare photocopies of acceptable IDs for each recorded owner or authorized agent as specified in the instructions.
  6. Sign the Certification: As the applicant, sign the form verifying that the information you provided is accurate and that you are entitled to request this certified copy.
  7. Prepare Payment: Ensure you have a check or money order for the application fee of $2.00 (by mail) or $5.45 (in person). Do not send cash or use temporary checks.
  8. Submit the Application: Send the completed form, payment, ID copies, and any additional required documents to the appropriate Texas DMV Regional Service Center, either by mail or in-person.

After submitting the form, applicants can expect to receive their certified copy of the title within a specified time frame, depending on the method of submission. Keep in mind that all original documents submitted will be returned. Proper vigilance in following each step will facilitate a successful application experience.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the DMV VTR 34 form used for?

The DMV VTR 34 form is an application used to obtain a Certified Copy of Title for a motor vehicle in Texas. This is necessary when the original title has been lost, stolen, or damaged. A Certified Copy serves as a replacement for the original title and any previously issued copies.

Who can apply using the VTR 34 form?

Only the recorded owner, a lienholder, or an authorized agent of the owner or lienholder can submit this application. Ensure that you meet these criteria before applying, as your role will be verified against the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) records.

What documents do I need to submit with the VTR 34 form?

You need to provide a government-issued photo ID for each recorded owner or authorized agent, a signed application, and any required documents such as a release of lien if applicable. Ensure that all IDs are valid and not expired for more than 12 months.

How much does it cost to apply for a Certified Copy of Title?

The fee to apply is $2.00 if you are mailing your application and $5.45 if you are applying in person. Note that these fees are non-refundable, and cash is not accepted for mailed applications—only checks or money orders are allowed.

Can I use a photocopy of my ID?

Yes, you can submit a photocopy of each required government-issued photo ID. This includes a driver’s license, U.S. passport, military ID, or other acceptable forms as outlined by the TxDMV.

What happens to my original documents after I submit my application?

All original documents or certified copies that you submit will be returned to you. Make sure to keep a copy of everything you send for your records, as the department does not provide tracking for mailed applications.

How long will it take to receive my Certified Copy of Title by mail?

If you choose to apply by mail, it will take at least 15 days to receive your Certified Copy of Title. Keep in mind that this timeline may vary based on postal service delays.

What if there is a lien listed on the vehicle’s title?

If a lien is recorded, you will need to provide an original signed release of the lien from the lienholder along with your application. This is necessary even if you have paid off the loan, as the TxDMV cannot remove a lien from the record without this documentation.

How can I apply if I am using a Power of Attorney?

If applying with a Power of Attorney, both the individual granting and the one receiving it must provide valid IDs. Additionally, you must submit a letter of authority connecting the agent to the entity or individual being represented, ensuring proper authorization for the application.

Where do I submit the DMV VTR 34 form?

You can submit your completed form in person or by mail to a Texas Department of Motor Vehicles Regional Service Center. Check the TxDMV website for specific locations. When mailing, use the address provided for Wichita Falls to ensure your application is processed correctly.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DMV VTR 34 form can seem straightforward, but several common mistakes can lead to unnecessary delays. One prevalent error involves incomplete information. Applicants often overlook filling in crucial vehicle details, such as the Vehicle Identification Number or title/document number. Leaving these sections blank or incomplete can halt the processing of your application.

Another mistake many make is failing to provide the correct identification. The form requires a valid government-issued photo ID for each recorded owner or agent. Applicants sometimes assume that any ID will suffice, but this is not the case. Only specific forms of ID are accepted. Be sure to check the identification requirements carefully before submitting your application.

Applicants occasionally misunderstand the rules regarding original signatures. Each person's signature must be original; photocopies or electronic signatures are not valid. If multiple owners are involved, all must sign the application. This requirement often leads to delays, especially if not everyone is aware they need to be present to sign.

Additionally, some people incorrectly assume they can submit copies of the required documentation, especially the release of lien. If the vehicle has a lien, applicants must provide an original, signed release of lien from the lienholder. Many end up sending photocopies, which the DMV does not accept, leading to further complications.

Lastly, the fee structure can catch applicants off guard. Depending on whether you apply by mail or in person, the fees differ significantly. Many people forget to include the correct fee with their application or inadvertently send cash rather than the accepted forms of payment. Always double-check that you’ve enclosed the proper payment to avoid issues with processing your request.

Documents used along the form

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) VTR-34 form is essential for anyone seeking a certified copy of a Texas title after the original has been lost, stolen, or damaged. While this form is crucial, several other documents may also be necessary to facilitate the process effectively. Below is a list of forms and documents that are often submitted alongside the VTR-34, each serving its unique purpose.

  • Government Issued Photo ID: A valid photo ID, such as a state driver license, passport, or military ID, is required for all applicants. This ensures that the identity of the person requesting the document is verified.
  • Release of Lien (Form VTR-266): This document is necessary if there is a lien on the vehicle. It confirms that the lien has been satisfied and is typically obtained from the lienholder.
  • Power of Attorney (POA): If someone is applying on behalf of the vehicle's owner, a POA document must be provided. This document grants authority to the agent to act in the owner's stead.
  • Vehicle Title Application (VTR-130): While not always necessary, this form can accompany the VTR-34 for certain transactions, especially if new ownership is being established simultaneously.
  • Fee Payment Form: This form provides details on the method of payment for the title application fee. Payment can be made via a personal check, cashier's check, or money order, particularly when applying by mail.
  • Certification of Ownership: In cases where ownership cannot be easily established, this document may be used to affirm that the applicant is the rightful owner of the vehicle.
  • Entity Signature Authority Letter: Required if applying as a representative of a business entity, this letter outlines the agent's authority to act on behalf of the organization and must be submitted with the application.

These supporting documents play a vital role in ensuring a smooth application process for obtaining a certified copy of a vehicle title in Texas. Ensuring that the relevant forms are included can facilitate quicker processing times and help avoid delays. Staying organized and thorough can often lead to a successful interaction with the TxDMV.

Similar forms

  • Form VTR-266 - Application for Release of Lien: This document is needed to officially release a lien on a motor vehicle, similar to how the VTR-34 form manages title applications after a title is lost or damaged. Both forms require the original signed documents to be submitted, ensuring ownership clarity.

  • Form VTR-30 - Application for Texas Title: This form is used to apply for a new title under various circumstances, including from out-of-state vehicles. Like the VTR-34 form, it requires specific identification and documentation from the applicant.

  • Form VTR-21 - Application for Duplicate Title: When a title is lost or stolen, the VTR-21 allows the owner to request a new title. It has similarities with the VTR-34 since both address title replacement and require proof of ownership.

  • Form VTR-141 - Notice of Vehicle Transfer: This form is important when ownership of a vehicle transfers. It has a similar purpose to VTR-34, as it ensures that the records reflect the rightful owner post-transaction.

  • Form VTR-130 - Application for Texas Title for a Vehicle Previously Registered Outside Texas: This form facilitates the registration of out-of-state vehicles. Like the VTR-34, it collects information to verify ownership and requires identification.

  • Form VTR-179 - Application for Gotcha Now Title Package: This form is for similar purposes as the VTR-34 but focuses on a specific program for expedited handling. Both forms require detailed vehicle information and ownership verification.

  • Form VTR-132 - Application for Title Following Court Order: In cases where a court has ruled on vehicle ownership, this form allows for a title to be issued. It is comparable to the VTR-34, emphasizing the necessity of legal ownership documents.

  • Form VTR-201 - Application for Certified Copy of Title for a Title Only Vehicle: This form serves to provide a certified copy of the title when the vehicle is not registered. Similar to VTR-34, it mandates that the applicant provide proof of ownership.

  • Form VTR-67 - Vehicle Registration Application: This form is used for registering vehicles in Texas. Although its focus differs, both it and the VTR-34 ensure that ownership is well-documented and verified before any titles or registrations can be issued.

  • Form VTR-130-U - Affidavit for Title by Owner: This form is for individuals who claim ownership of a vehicle without having the title. It parallels the VTR-34 in establishing ownership when documentation is not available.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DMV VTR-34 form, there are several important things to keep in mind. Here’s a list of what you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do: Ensure that you include the correct application fee ($2.00 by mail or $5.45 in person).
  • Do: Provide a valid government-issued photo ID for each owner or authorized agent. This ID must not be expired by more than 12 months.
  • Do: Sign the application in black or blue ink. If there are multiple owners, make sure all needed signatures are included.
  • Do: Obtain an original, signed release of lien if applicable, as photocopies are not accepted.
  • Don't: Forget to double-check that all required documents are included with your application, as missing documents can lead to delays.
  • Don't: Use cash or temporary checks when submitting the application by mail.
  • Don't: Submit faxes or scanned documents in place of original signatures or documents, as these will not be accepted.
  • Don't: Mail the application to unauthorized locations; ensure you send it to the right DMV office.

Misconceptions

Understanding the DMV VTR 34 form can sometimes be confusing. Here are ten common misconceptions clarified:

  • Anyone can apply for a certified copy. Only the owner, lienholder, or an authorized agent can submit this application.
  • The form can be submitted online. The VTR 34 must be submitted in person or by mail to a TxDMV Regional Service Center.
  • Expired IDs are acceptable. Government-issued photo IDs must be valid and not expired for more than 12 months.
  • Cash payments are allowed. The application fee must be paid by personal check, cashier's check, or money order. Cash is not accepted.
  • Photocopies of signatures are fine. Only original signatures are accepted on the application.
  • All documents submitted are kept by the DMV. Original documents will be returned regardless of whether they were provided in person or by mail.
  • You don't need a lien release if the loan is paid. A signed release of lien is required even if the vehicle loan is paid off.
  • Two applicants can sign one form. If there are multiple owners, each must sign the form separately.
  • Any ID is acceptable for the recipient. The recipient of the certified copy must provide an acceptable government-issued photo ID if they are different from the applicant.
  • The DMV provides application status updates. The Texas DMV does not offer application tracking or status updates for mailed forms.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways about the DMV VTR 34 form:

  • Purpose: Use the VTR 34 form to apply for a certified copy of a Texas vehicle title when the original is lost, stolen, or damaged.
  • Eligibility: The applicant must be the vehicle owner, lienholder, or a duly authorized representative.
  • Submission: Submit the completed form and documents in person or by mail to a TxDMV Regional Service Center.
  • Fees: The application fee is $2.00 if submitted by mail and $5.45 if submitted in person. Ensure to pay by check or money order; cash and credit/debit cards are not accepted.
  • ID Requirements: Include a photocopy of a valid government-issued photo ID for each owner and agent. Expired IDs (not older than 12 months) are acceptable.
  • Signatures: Original signatures are mandatory on the application. If the vehicle has multiple owners, each must sign or provide a power of attorney.
  • Release of Lien: If there is a lien, submit an original signed release from the lienholder, even if the loan is paid off. Copies are not acceptable.