How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Alaska Title

Losing your vehicle title can feel stressful, especially if you're planning to sell your vehicle, register it in another state, or complete a title transfer. Thankfully, the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has a streamlined process in place to help you get a duplicate title if yours has been lost, stolen, or damaged beyond legibility. This guide walks you through the full replacement process, what to expect in terms of cost and timing, and what documents you'll need to submit.

When You Need a Duplicate Alaska Title

You’ll need a duplicate title if your original Alaska vehicle title has been:

• Lost
• Stolen
• Mutilated or damaged to the point of being unreadable
• Never received after a transaction or title issuance

Without a valid title, you cannot legally transfer ownership of the vehicle, so it’s important to apply for a replacement as soon as you realize it’s missing or unusable.

Required Documents and Information

To request a duplicate title in Alaska, you must complete Form 809, the Application for Duplicate Title. This form is available on the Alaska DMV website or at any DMV office. The information you'll need includes:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Year, make, and model of the vehicle
• Name and address of the current registered owner(s)
• Driver’s license or ID number
• Signature(s) of all owners listed on the current title

If the title was mutilated or damaged, the remnants of the original title must be submitted with your application.

Submitting the Duplicate Title Application

You can submit the application in one of the following ways:

• By Mail: Send your completed form, payment, and any required documents to:

  Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
  3901 Old Seward Highway, Suite 101
  Anchorage, AK 99503

• In Person: Visit any DMV office throughout the state to submit the application and payment directly.

For some transactions, certain third-party offices may also be authorized to handle title replacement applications.

Duplicate Title Fees in Alaska

As of the latest fee schedule, the cost to obtain a duplicate Alaska vehicle title is $15. This fee must be paid at the time of application and is non-refundable, even if your original title is later found.

Payment methods accepted include:

• Check or money order (for mail submissions)
• Cash, check, credit/debit card (for in-person applications)

Processing Time and Expedited Options

Standard processing for duplicate titles in Alaska typically takes 2–4 weeks, depending on workload and whether the application was submitted by mail or in person.

If you need the title faster, Alaska offers expedited title processing for an additional fee. You can learn more about this option and how to request it by reading the Alaska Title Processing Times and How to Expedite.

What to Do If You're Not the Sole Owner

If your vehicle has co-owners listed on the title, all listed owners must sign the duplicate title application. If one of the owners is unavailable, you will need to provide a notarized Power of Attorney or legal documentation allowing one person to act on behalf of the others.

In the case of a deceased co-owner, refer to the Transferring a Vehicle Title After the Owner’s Death guide for how to legally proceed before applying for a duplicate title.

Special Situations

Vehicles With Liens

If your vehicle has an active lien, the lienholder may need to apply for the duplicate title, or you’ll need to submit a Lien Release form. For more details, see the How to Handle Lien Releases for Alaska Titles resource.

Vehicles Purchased Without a Title

If you purchased a vehicle and the seller cannot provide a title, do not apply for a duplicate title on your own. Instead, you may need to go through the Alaska Bonded Title Process to obtain legal ownership.

Tips to Prevent Title Issues in the Future

• Store your vehicle title in a safe, dry, and secure place, not in your vehicle.
• Never sign your title unless you’re actively transferring ownership.
• If mailing title documents, use tracked or certified mail to avoid loss in transit.

Having a valid and legible title is essential for all vehicle-related legal transactions. Whether you're selling your car, transferring ownership, or moving out of state, keeping your title secure can save you time and hassle later.

If you're new to the title process in Alaska or have questions about other title-related matters, check out our guide on How to Title a Vehicle in Alaska or review the Alaska Vehicle Title Transfer Process. These resources will help you understand related procedures and avoid common pitfalls.