If your car has been impounded and you don’t have the registration, it’s still possible to get it released, but you’ll need to follow some key steps. First, call the impound lot to find out their specific requirements. Every lot has its own rules, and knowing exactly what they need will save you time.
In most cases, you'll need a valid photo ID and proof of vehicle ownership. If you don’t have the registration, you can usually use the car title or an insurance card that lists the vehicle’s VIN. If you don’t have the title, visit your local DMV and request a duplicate title or registration. Many DMV offices offer same-day printouts for a small fee. Be prepared to pay towing and storage fees, which can add up quickly. Payment is usually required in full, and some lots only accept cash or credit cards. Ultimately, the key is to act quickly and stay calm. The longer your car stays in the lot, the more expensive it gets—so gather what you can, contact the lot, and handle the paperwork ASAP.
OUTPOUND.com recommends having your vehicle registration ready, as it can help you avoid additional red tape during the release process. To make things easier, here’s a list of states that offer online options for ordering or reprinting a duplicate registration, along with states that have limited or no clear online access to this service.
✅ States That Allow Ordering or Reprinting a Duplicate Registration Online
- California — You can request a replacement registration card or sticker online using DMV’s portal. You’ll need your license plate, last five VIN digits, and a fee is required
- Connecticut — Individual vehicle owners can reprint their vehicle registration online at no fee. The document is accessible and printable for 30 days
- Florida — Through the MyDMV Portal or mobile app, you can obtain a duplicate registration certificate. You receive a digital receipt and the official copy is mailed to you (fees apply)
- Georgia — Via Georgia DRIVES e‐Services, you can select “Replace My Registration” to get a copy emailed or printed. The online service is free, though county tag offices may charge $1 in person
- New York — The DMV lets you replace your registration documents online and download a temporary PDF valid immediately until the mailed version arrives
- Pennsylvania — You may order a duplicate registration online by logging into PennDOT's Online Vehicle Services; the document is mailed to you for a fee
🚫 States with Limited or No Clear Online Duplicate Registration Option
These states typically do not offer an online duplicate registration service, or they require in-person or mailed request routes:
- Virginia — Online services appear to cover renewal and address changes, but no explicit duplicate registration via web is described dmv.virginia.govdmv.virginia.gov.
- Maryland — The MVA offers 24-hour electronic or digital registration, but doesn’t confirm an online duplicate request process mva.maryland.gov.
- Massachusetts — Information covers identity requirements; no online duplicate registration service is clearly listed mass.gov.
- New Hampshire — Duplicate registrations are handled by town or city clerks; state DMV references no online option dmv.nh.gov.
- Illinois — The ERT system allows pre‐filling a transaction but still requires in‐person or mail submission to a facility within 7 days; not a full online duplicate issuance ilsos.gov.
Many states allow registration renewal online, but fewer explicitly offer a dedicated duplicate registration service online. The states listed above are confirmed to support an online request for a duplicate vehicle registration document, either downloadable immediately or mailed after ordering. If you need guidance, contact OUTPOUND now! We’re here to help!
