Illinois VSD 270 Duplicate & Corrected Titles Guide

Illinois VSD 270 Duplicate & Corrected Titles Guide – If your Illinois vehicle title is lost, stolen, mutilated, or contains incorrect information, the Illinois Secretary of State (SOS) provides a clear process to obtain a duplicate or corrected title. Official guidance is outlined in Form VSD 270, the SOS brochure titled “Duplicate and Corrected Titles.” This guide explains when you need each type of title, required documents, fees, and how to apply using the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190).

All information is based on current official publications from the Illinois Secretary of State Office. Always verify the latest details directly with the SOS, as requirements can change.

What Is Illinois Form VSD 270?

VSD 270 is an informational brochure published by the Illinois Secretary of State Vehicle Services Department. It explains the rules and steps for requesting a duplicate title (when the original is lost, stolen, or damaged) or a corrected title (when information on the existing title needs updating).

You can download the official VSD 270 brochure here: Download Illinois VSD 270 PDF.

The actual application form used to request either type of title is the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190), available through the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) system or at SOS facilities.

When Do You Need a Duplicate Title?

A duplicate title replaces a previously issued Illinois title only when the Secretary of State determines the original is lost, stolen, or mutilated.

Important restrictions apply to prevent fraud:

A duplicate title will not be issued until at least 15 days have passed from the issuance date of the original title.
If a previous duplicate was issued, you must wait 30 days from that issuance date.

You must complete an Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) marked “DUPLICATE TITLE,” provide the reason the title is needed, include the exact Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and list the current odometer reading for vehicles nine years old and newer.

When Do You Need a Corrected Title?

Request a corrected title when the existing title has inaccurate or outdated information. Do not use a duplicate title application solely to correct information if you still possess the original title.

Common situations requiring a corrected title include:

Removing an owner’s name due to divorce, death of a co-owner, or similar reasons
Adding or changing an owner’s name due to marriage or legal name change
Adding a lienholder

If you need both a replacement (because the title is lost) and corrections, you may request the changes on a duplicate title application.

Note: Ownership and registration information must match. In most cases, both the title and the vehicle registration ID card must be corrected at the same time (address changes are an exception).

Required Documents and Supporting Evidence

In addition to the completed and signed VSD 190 application, you may need supporting documents depending on the type of request:

Divorce: Affirmation from the person releasing interest or relevant pages of the divorce decree (must show court name, vehicle identification, and judge’s signature)
Death of a co-owner: Certified copy of the death certificate; if the estate is being probated, also submit certified letters of administration or court order
Name change due to marriage: Marriage license or other legal documentation authorizing the change
Removing a satisfied lien: Lien clearance letter from the lienholder, lien contract showing paid in full (countersigned), copies of receipts/canceled checks totaling the original lien amount, or a court order
Adding a lien: Full name and address of the lienholder

Always provide the exact VIN copied from the vehicle and the current odometer reading when required. Incomplete applications are returned.

Fees for Duplicate and Corrected Titles

According to the Illinois Secretary of State fee schedule:

Standard duplicate or corrected title: $50
Reduced fee of $15 applies when the primary reason is removal of a name due to divorce or death of a co-owner, or a name change due to marriage (other changes may be included at the same time if one of these is the main reason)
Additional $3 fee may apply to correct the registration card in certain name-change situations

Payment is accepted by check or money order payable to the Secretary of State (or as directed at facilities). Fees are subject to change; confirm current amounts on the official Illinois SOS fees page.

How to Apply for a Duplicate or Corrected Title?

Complete the Application for Vehicle Transaction(s) (VSD 190) online via the Electronic Registration and Title (ERT) System or obtain a paper form.
Mark the appropriate box: “DUPLICATE TITLE” or “CORRECTED TITLE.”
Fill out all applicable sections carefully, including VIN, odometer reading (when required), owner information, and reason for the request.
Sign the application.
Gather any required supporting documents.
Submit the application with the correct fee and documents either in person or by mail.

In person: Visit a Secretary of State facility. Locate one using the DMV Facility Finder. Some locations offer expedited title service.

By mail: Send to:

Office of the Secretary of State
Vehicle Services Department
501 S. Second St.
Springfield, IL 62756-7000

(Addresses may vary slightly by transaction type or expedited service; check the current VSD 270 brochure or SOS website for the exact room/division.)

Applications submitted through the ERT system must be taken to a local facility or mailed within seven days, along with supporting documents and payment.

Special Rules for Liens and Mailing

If a lien is listed on the title, the new title is mailed to the lienholder. Include the complete name and address of the lienholder on the application.

If there is no lien, the title is mailed to the principal owner listed first, or to a different address if you provide special “MAIL TO” instructions.

To remove a previously listed lien that has been satisfied, do not list the lienholder and submit one of the acceptable lien-release documents described earlier.

Out-of-State Residents

Out-of-state residents generally cannot apply for an Illinois duplicate title if they purchased a vehicle without a title from an Illinois resident. In that case, the Illinois seller must apply for the duplicate.

Exception: A former Illinois resident who was the last valid title holder may apply. They must list their former Illinois address in the owner information section and provide out-of-state mailing instructions in the “MAIL TO” area.

Tips for Faster Processing

Provide the most accurate and complete information possible, especially the VIN and current license plate number.
Double-check that all required boxes on the VSD 190 are filled and that signatures are present.
Include the correct fee; insufficient payment causes returns.
For mobile homes, include square footage information.
Contact the SOS Vehicle Services Department if you have questions before submitting.

Toll-free in Illinois: 800-252-8980. Outside Illinois or additional information: check the official SOS website at ilsos.gov.

Official Resources and Downloads

This article is for informational purposes and is based on official Illinois Secretary of State publications, including the January 2024 edition of VSD 270 and current website guidance. Requirements, fees, and procedures can change. Always refer to the most recent official SOS materials or contact the Vehicle Services Department for the latest instructions before submitting your application.