Lost Your Montana Vehicle Title? How to Replace It
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A lost, stolen, or damaged title can stop you from selling, transferring, or registering your vehicle. The good news is there's usually a clear path to replace it. Which path you take depends on where the vehicle was last titled and whether you can prove ownership.
If the vehicle was last titled in Montana
The registered owner can apply for a duplicate using Montana's Application for Replacement Certificate of Title (Form MV7). You'll need the VIN, vehicle details, and owner information. The state charges a small fee for a duplicate title, which was listed at $10.30 at the time of writing, though fees can change.
If there's an active lien on the vehicle, the lienholder may need to be involved in the request.
If the vehicle was last titled in another state
A duplicate title generally has to come from the state that issued the original. Once you have that replacement, you can use it to title the vehicle in Montana.
If you can't prove ownership: bonded titles
Sometimes there's no title to replace, such as when a vehicle was bought without one or the previous owner can't be reached. In Montana, someone without adequate proof of ownership may need a bonded title.
That means buying a surety bond, usually equal to the vehicle's value, before a title can be issued. The bond protects the true owner if one turns up later, and it typically stays in effect for three years.
Tips to make it easier
- Find the VIN on the vehicle itself and make sure it matches any paperwork you have
- Gather any bill of sale, old registration, or other ownership records
- If there was a loan, get a lien release from the lender
- Keep copies of everything you submit
How we can help
If your vehicle's title is lost, damaged, or missing, tell us about your situation before you order. We'll let you know whether we can help and which service fits.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Fees and requirements can change, so always confirm current rules for your situation.