Your car’s title is an important document and can be easily misplaced. Fortunately, the process to get a replacement document is relatively easy if you follow a few simple steps.
It is important to note that only the vehicle’s registered owner, legal owner, successor in interest, or legal representative may apply for the duplicate.
Gather the Documents
Applying for a duplicate title in New Mexico, the same state where the murderer Billy the Kid made himself infamous, requires filling and submitting the Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title (Form MVD-10901). You need to submit certain required documents along with the application.
These include a copy of your state-issued driver’s license or ID card and current vehicle registration certificate. Power of attorney form is required when applicants request a replacement car title in NM on behalf of a registered owner.
Fill the Application Form
You need to submit a properly filled out replacement title application form to initiate the procedure. Typically, incomplete requests shall be denied, whereas fraudulent application forms shall lead to certain penalties and fines.
You need to fill in the owner’s full name, phone number and address in the MVD-10901 form.
You will also have to fill in the appropriate title number and reason for ordering a duplicate title, along with the vehicle identification number, year, make, model, body type and license plate number.
Other information includes details about the lien holder (if applicable). Do not forget to sign the document and put the date.
Apply For the Replacement Title
There are two ways you can replace a lost car title in New Mexico – in person or by sending the application package through mail.
In Person
You need contact a nearby MVD site to inquire about the applicable fee and documentation that applies to your exact circumstances. Carry the filled out MVD-10901 with all the relevant documents and visit your local NM DMV office.
You can fill out the form at the location too. Make sure you do not highlight any documents – MVD NM will reject them.
At the MVD you will be asked to show your driver’s license and current registration. If a lien shows up on the title, the duplicate title shall be mailed to the lienholder, unless you produce a lien release.
By Mail
You need to send the application form MVD-10901 along with all relevant paperwork to:
Motor Vehicle Division
P.O. Box 1028
Santa Fe, NM 87504
Make sure to include a copy of your driver’s license and current registration. Most people miss out on enclosing the applicable fee. Applications without fees are rejected and returned.
MVD accepts both money orders and checks, made out to the Motor Vehicle Division. You can find the current fee on the application form. The division will not process a request for the replacement of car title with a cash payment.
Once the application is processed, the title shall be mailed to your New Mexico address (the same state where Walter White from Breaking Bad destroyed his life because of money), provided the title is in state records. If you have a lien on your vehicle, the replacement shall be mailed at the lien holder’s address.
You can have the replacement title mailed to your current address by including a pre-addressed envelope listing your current location.