When you pay off your vehicle loan, be sure that the lien release is noted on DMV's records and obtain an updated copy of your title.
- If your lender participates in Virginia's Electronic Lien program, the lender will electronically release the lien with DMV. A new title will be mailed to your address on record with DMV. DMV's records will no longer show a lien on the vehicle. "Lien Satisfied" and the date will be printed on your title. You do not need to take any action.
- If your lender does not participate in Virginia's Electronic Lien program, the lender will mark on the title that the lien was satisfied and mail the title to you. However, this does not remove the lien from DMV's records.
To remove the lien from DMV's records, bring the title to any DMV customer service center and apply for a substitute title. The fee is $15. DMV will issue you a new title. "Lien Satisfied" and the date will be printed on the new title.
DMV urges you to remove the lien from DMV records as soon as you receive the title from your lender. If you lose the title or it is destroyed, you must obtain a lien release letter from the lender. This may be difficult if the lender changes names, address, merges or goes out of business.
If you are unable to obtain a lien release letter because the lender has merged, changed names or address, contact the State Corporation Commission (SCC), or for dealers, the Motor Vehicle Dealer Board (MVDB), to request information about the lender's new name or location. If the lender has gone out of business, you will need a letter from the SCC or the MVDB stating that the lender is no longer in business. You will also need to provide evidence (such as receipts and cancelled checks) showing that the lien has been paid in full, a notarized statement that you have made final payment on the lien, along with returned certified mail addressed to the lender requesting a lien release for your vehicle.