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The MV-38L form serves multiple purposes related to vehicle titles and liens in Pennsylvania. It allows lienholders to apply for a duplicate title, record a new lien, renew an existing lien, satisfy a lien, or correct lienholder information. Depending on the specific request, different sections of the form must be completed. For instance, if a lienholder needs to record a new lien, they must fill out Sections A, B, D, and E. Each option has associated fees and requirements, such as notarization and the attachment of the current title if applicable. The form also provides a mechanism for lienholders to change their address or name, ensuring that all records remain accurate. Proper completion of the MV-38L is crucial for maintaining clear ownership and lien status on vehicles, which can impact both the lienholder and the vehicle owner. Understanding the form's requirements can help streamline the process and avoid potential delays in title processing.

Mv 38L Example

BMV Fees

MV-38L (3-25)

APPLICATION FOR DUPLICATE TITLE OR

TO RECORD, RENEW, REMOVE A LIEN, OR TO CORRECT LIEN INFORMATION BY LIENHOLDER

(The space above is for Department use only)

Bureau of Motor Vehicles • P.O. Box 68593 • Harrisburg, PA 17106-8593

See Completion Instructions and Fee Information on Reverse

1.r Duplicate Title by Lienholder - Complete Sections A, B and E. (This option cannot be selected if current title is ELT.)

2.r Record a Lien - Complete Sections A, B (if title is not attached or is defaced), D and E. When a lien is recorded, a new title is issued either as a paper title or an ELT. In addition, when an existing lien is not satisfied on the current certificate of title and a lien is being added, the lienholder information listed below in Section A will be added to the title as a second lien. A new title or ELT update will be issued to the first lienholder.

3.r Renew a Lien - Complete Sections A, B (if current title is not ELT, and is not attached or is defaced) and E.

4.r Satisfy a Lien - Complete Sections A, B (if title is not attached or is defaced) and E. (This option cannot be selected if current title is ELT.)

5.r Change or Correction of Lienholder Name - Complete Sections A, B (if current title is not ELT, and is not attached or is defaced), C, and E.

 

6.

r

Lienholder’s Change of Address Only, Replacement Title to Be Issued - Complete Sections A, B (if title is not

 

 

 

 

attached or is defaced), and E. (This option cannot be selected if current title is ELT.)

 

7.

r

Lienholder’s Change of Address Only, No Replacement Title to Be Issued - Complete Sections A and E. (This

 

 

 

 

option cannot be selected if current title is ELT.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A

VEHICLE AND LIENHOLDER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title Number

 

Vehicle Identification Number

 

 

 

 

 

Owner Name (as shown on original title)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lienholder’s Name on Record

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is lienholder enrolled

r

Yes

Financial Institution Number (Required for ELT)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

in ELT Program?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

r No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Complete if recording a

 

Street Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

lien or if address differs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

from lienholder address

 

City

 

 

State

 

 

 

Zip Code

 

 

 

listed on original title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check Appropriate

 

 

r 1st Lienholder

 

 

 

r Record

 

r Delete - Lien Satisfied

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

r 2nd Lienholder

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Block:

 

 

 

 

 

r Renew

 

r Correction - Lien Recorded in Error

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

r 3rd Lienholder

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B

REASON FOR DUPLICATE TITLE - NOTE: Section B does not need completed if lien is an ELT.

 

 

 

Appropriate Block

r Lost/

r Stolen

r Defaced (Defaced title must

 

r Never Received (Provide the correct mailing

 

 

 

Must Be Checked

Destroyed

 

 

 

 

be attached)

 

 

 

address above)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C

CHANGE OR CORRECTION OF LIENHOLDER NAME

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New or Correct Lienholder Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Is lienholder enrolled

r

Yes

Financial Institution Number (Required for ELT)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

in ELT program?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

r No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reason for Change

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reason for

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

of Lienholder’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Correction of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lienholder Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

D

VEHICLE OWNER SIGNATURE - Required only when a new lien is being recorded.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature of Vehicle Owner

 

 

 

Signature of Vehicle Co-Owner (if applicable)

 

 

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

E

LIENHOLDER UNSWORN DECLARATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We declare under penalty of perjury under the law of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, that the foregoing is true and correct, and that application was made for the above product or that the items as indicated were never received in the mail. Furthermore, I/we state that I/we have read and signed this application after its completion, and I/we swear or affirm that the statements made herein are true and correct, and that any statement made on or pursuant to this application is subject to the penalties of 18 Pa.C.S. Section 4904 (relating to unsworn falsification), which include criminal prosecution and a term of imprisonment, the maximum of which may be one year [18 Pa.C.S. 4904(b)], or up to two years[18 Pa.C.S. 4904(a)]. In addition to any other penalty, a person convicted under this section shall be sentenced to pay a fine of at least $1,000 [18 Pa.C.S. 4904(d)].

Signed on the _____ day of _______________, _______________________ at ______________________________________, _________________________________.

(County or Other Location, and State)

(Country)

 

 

 

 

Printed Name of Lienholder/Authorized Signer

Signature of Lienholder/Authorized Signer

Title of Authorized Signer

INSTRUCTIONS and FEE INFORMATION

NOTE: This form may require a fee. Please review the instructions below carefully prior to submitting the application. For a complete listing of motor vehicle fees, refer to Form MV-70S, "Bureau of Motor Vehicles Schedule of Fees," found on our web- site at www.pa.gov/dmv or scan the QR code on the front of this application.

TO ASSURE PROPER PROCESSING, ALWAYS CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BLOCK(S) IN THE TOP SECTION ON THE FRONT OF THIS APPLICATION TO INDICATE THE NATURE OF YOUR REQUEST.

lIf Blocks 2, 3 and/or 4 are checked on the front of this application, to ensure that the lienholder’s interest is properly documented with PennDOT, check the appropriate blocks in Section A.

lDo not send cash. Make check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

lMail to: PA Department of Transportation, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 68593, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8593.

IF BLOCK #1 IS CHECKED: A title fee and self-certification are required.

lIf a paper title was issued and was never received, no fee is required if this application is filed within 90 days of issuance. For verification purposes, list current mailing address in Section A.

lVehicle owner’s signature is not required.

IF BLOCK #2 IS CHECKED: A lien and title fee are required as well as a self-certification. (NOTE: If application is to record a second or third lien, the fee is required for each lien.)

lCurrent title must be attached. If title is not attached, complete Section B.

lNew title will be issued, either as a paper title or an Electronic Lien and Title Program (ELT).

lIf recording a new lien, the lienholder’s signature must be self-certified in Section E. In addition, the signature of the vehicle owner is required in Section D. The vehicle owner’s signature does not require self-certification.

lA lien recorded on a certificate of title is valid for a period of 30 years in the case of a mobile home and emergency vehicles, 20 years for a motor home or recreational trailer, 8 years in the case of truck tractors, recreational cargo trailers or trailers weighing in excess of 10,000 pounds or 6 years in the case of all other vehicles.

IF BLOCK #3 IS CHECKED: A lien fee (If no new title is requested, or if current title is ELT) and self-certification is required.

A lien fee and title fee (If new title is requested and current title is not ELT) and self-certification is required.

lIf renewing a lien, the lienholder’s signature is required to be self-certified in Section E. NOTE: A lienholder may renew a lien for as many 3 year periods as may be necessary, by filing this application within the 6 months immediately preceding its expiration. A lienholder may not apply for renewal of a lien more than 6 months before the lien expiration date, or after the lien has expired. If the current lien is expired, a lien renewal cannot be processed. The lienholder may check block 2 and follow instructions to record a lien.

IF BLOCK #4 IS CHECKED: A title fee (For issuance of a new title) and self-certification is required. (This option cannot be selected if lien is ELT.)

lCurrent title must be attached. If title is not attached, complete Section B. NOTE: If title is ELT, lienholder is required to release the lien electronically.

lNew title will be issued.

lThe date the lien was satisfied must be listed in the space provided in Section A.

lThe lienholder’s signature is required to be self-certified in Section E.

IF BLOCK #5 IS CHECKED: A title fee and self-certification is required. (NOTE: Lienholder must file Form MV-37, "Application for Enrollment/Change in Electronic Lien and Title System," for the change of name in

the PennDOT database prior to selecting this option.)

lCurrent title must be attached unless ELT. If title is not ELT and is not attached, complete Section B.

lNew title will be issued, either a paper title or an ELT.

lAttach a photocopy of the Articles of Amendment documenting merger, absorption, consolidation or other action causing change of lienholder’s name. The existing lien should not be released on the face of the attached title. NOTE: Form MV-950, “Notification of Assignment of Secured Interest in a Vehicle,” must be used when a lienholder assigns or transfers their right, title and interest for a vehicle in the security agreement to another financial institution.

IF BLOCK #6 IS CHECKED: A title fee and self-certification is required. (NOTE: This option cannot be selected if lien is ELT.)

lCurrent title must be attached. If title is not attached, complete Section B.

lNew title to be issued.

IF BLOCK #7 IS CHECKED: Self-certification is not required. (NOTE: This option cannot be selected if lien is ELT. Lienholder must file Form MV-37, "Application for Enrollment/Change in Electronic Lien and Title System," for the change of address in the PennDOT database, then process the address change electronically.)

lLienholder's signature is required in Section E and self-certification is not required.

lNo fee required.

Visit us at www.pa.gov/dmv or call us at 717-412-5300. TTY callers — please dial 711 to reach us.

Click for Mv 38L File

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The MV-38L form is used to apply for a duplicate title, record, renew, remove, or correct lien information by a lienholder in Pennsylvania.
Governing Law This form is governed by Pennsylvania vehicle title laws, specifically the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.
Sections Required Depending on the action being taken, different sections of the form must be completed. For example, to record a lien, Sections A, B, D, and E must be filled out.
Fees Fees vary based on the request. For example, a duplicate title costs $58, while recording a lien costs $86.
Notarization Requirement Most actions require notarization of the lienholder’s signature, except for the change of address option without a replacement title.
Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) If the current title is part of the ELT program, certain options on the form cannot be selected, and specific procedures must be followed.
Submission Process The completed form must be mailed to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, along with any required fees.

Guide to Using Mv 38L

Filling out the MV-38L form is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. Once completed, the form needs to be submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, ensuring that all necessary fees are included and that the application is properly notarized where required.

  1. Begin by identifying the purpose of your application. Check the appropriate box at the top of the form to indicate whether you are requesting a duplicate title, recording a lien, renewing a lien, satisfying a lien, changing the lienholder's name, or changing the lienholder's address.
  2. Proceed to fill out Section A with the vehicle and lienholder information. Include the title number, vehicle identification number (VIN), owner’s name, and lienholder’s name. Indicate if the lienholder is enrolled in the Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) program.
  3. Complete Section B only if necessary. This section details the reason for requesting a duplicate title, such as if the title was lost, stolen, defaced, or never received.
  4. If you are changing or correcting the lienholder’s name, fill out Section C with the new or corrected name and provide the reason for the change.
  5. In Section D, the vehicle owner’s signature is required only if you are recording a new lien. Ensure that both the vehicle owner and co-owner (if applicable) sign and date this section.
  6. Section E requires notarization. The authorized person must sign and provide their title and telephone number. This signature confirms that the statements made in the application are true and correct.
  7. Review the entire form for completeness and accuracy. Ensure that all required signatures are present and that any necessary attachments, such as the current title, are included.
  8. Prepare your payment. Do not send cash; instead, include a check or money order made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the required fee based on your application type.
  9. Mail the completed form and payment to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation at the address provided on the form.

Get Answers on Mv 38L

What is the MV-38L form used for?

The MV-38L form is an application used in Pennsylvania for various purposes related to vehicle titles and liens. It allows lienholders to request a duplicate title, record a new lien, renew an existing lien, satisfy a lien, or correct lienholder information. Each option requires specific sections of the form to be completed.

Who can submit the MV-38L form?

The form can be submitted by lienholders, which typically include banks or financial institutions that have a secured interest in a vehicle. Vehicle owners may also need to provide their signatures in certain situations, such as when recording a new lien.

What are the fees associated with the MV-38L form?

Fees vary depending on the purpose of the application:

  • $58 for a duplicate title.
  • $86 for recording a new lien (includes a $28 lien fee and a $58 title fee).
  • $28 for renewing a lien if no new title is requested.
  • $58 for satisfying a lien with a new title issuance.
  • $58 for changing or correcting the lienholder's name.
  • No fee for a change of address if no new title is issued.

What information do I need to provide on the MV-38L form?

Key information required includes:

  1. Title number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  2. Owner's name as shown on the original title.
  3. Lienholder's name and address.
  4. Reason for the application (e.g., lost title, lien satisfaction).

Additional details may be required based on the specific action being requested.

Can I submit the MV-38L form electronically?

Currently, the MV-38L form must be submitted by mail to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Electronic submissions are not accepted for this form. It is important to ensure that all required information is complete to avoid processing delays.

What happens after I submit the MV-38L form?

After submission, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will process the application. If approved, a new title will be issued according to the nature of the request. Processing times may vary, so it is advisable to allow sufficient time for the application to be reviewed and processed.

Is notarization required for the MV-38L form?

Yes, notarization is required for most sections of the MV-38L form, particularly when a new lien is being recorded or when changing lienholder information. However, notarization is not required for a change of address if no new title is issued.

What if my current title is an Electronic Lien and Title (ELT)?

If the current title is an ELT, certain options on the MV-38L form cannot be selected. For example, you cannot apply for a duplicate title or satisfy a lien without following specific electronic processes. It is important to refer to the instructions on the form for guidance on how to proceed with ELT titles.

Common mistakes

Filling out the MV-38L form can be a straightforward process, but many people make common mistakes that can delay their application. Understanding these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother experience. Here are five mistakes to watch out for when completing the form.

One frequent error is failing to check the appropriate blocks at the top of the application. This section is crucial as it indicates the nature of your request. If the wrong block is checked, the Department of Motor Vehicles may not process your application correctly. Always take a moment to double-check that you have selected the right option for your needs.

Another common mistake involves not attaching the current title when required. If you are recording a lien or renewing a lien, the current title must be included with your application. If the title is missing, you must complete Section B, which can complicate the process. Ensure that you have all necessary documents before mailing your application.

People often overlook the notarization requirement for certain sections of the form. For instance, if you are recording a new lien, the lienholder’s signature must be notarized in Section E. Neglecting this step can lead to delays or rejections of your application. Make sure to have the required signatures notarized to avoid complications.

Additionally, many applicants forget to provide the correct mailing address. If your address differs from what is listed on the original title, it is essential to update this information in Section A. Providing an incorrect address can lead to significant delays in receiving your title or other important documents.

Lastly, some individuals do not include the required fees with their application. Each block checked on the MV-38L form has associated fees that must be paid. Be sure to include a check or money order made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to avoid processing delays. Double-check the fee schedule to ensure you are sending the correct amount.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your MV-38L form is processed smoothly and efficiently. Always review your application carefully before submission, and consider seeking assistance if you have any questions about the process.

Documents used along the form

The MV-38L form is essential for lienholders in Pennsylvania when dealing with vehicle titles. However, several other forms and documents complement this process. Each serves a specific purpose, ensuring that all necessary information is accurately recorded and maintained. Below is a list of commonly used forms alongside the MV-38L.

  • MV-37: This form is used for enrollment or changes in the Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) system. Lienholders must submit it to update their information in the PennDOT database.
  • MV-950: This document notifies the PennDOT of an assignment of secured interest in a vehicle. It is required when a lienholder transfers their rights to another financial institution.
  • MV-1: The application for a certificate of title. This form is necessary when a vehicle is purchased or transferred to establish ownership formally.
  • MV-4ST: This is the application for a temporary registration plate. It allows the vehicle owner to operate the vehicle legally while waiting for the title or registration to be processed.
  • MV-120: This form is used to request a duplicate registration card. If the original card is lost or damaged, this form facilitates obtaining a replacement.
  • MV-41: This is the application for a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification. It is often required for out-of-state vehicles to ensure that the VIN matches the records.
  • MV-100: This form is the application for a new title after a vehicle is reconstructed or rebuilt. It helps document changes to the vehicle's status and ownership.
  • MV-99: This is the application for a salvage title. It is used when a vehicle has been deemed a total loss and is being rebuilt or repaired for road use.
  • MV-46: This form is used to apply for a lien release. It is necessary when a lien has been satisfied and the lienholder needs to release their interest in the vehicle.

Understanding these documents can streamline the process for lienholders and vehicle owners alike. Each form plays a vital role in maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with state regulations. It is advisable to refer to the specific instructions for each form to ensure proper completion and submission.

Similar forms

The MV-38L form is used for various lienholder-related requests. Here are four documents that are similar to the MV-38L form, along with how they relate:

  • Form MV-37: This form is used for enrolling or changing information in the Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) system. Like the MV-38L, it requires specific details about the lienholder and the vehicle, ensuring accurate records with PennDOT.
  • Form MV-950: This document is for notifying the assignment of a secured interest in a vehicle. Similar to the MV-38L, it involves lienholder information and is crucial for maintaining correct title records.
  • Form MV-1: The application for a new title form is used when a vehicle title is lost or damaged. Like the MV-38L, it requires information about the vehicle and the owner, ensuring proper processing for title issues.
  • Form MV-4ST: This is the application for a vehicle registration and title. Similar to the MV-38L, it gathers essential information about the vehicle and its ownership, which is vital for the registration process.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the MV-38L form, it's essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure a smooth process. Here’s a list of things to do and avoid:

  • Do check the appropriate box on the front of the application to indicate your request type.
  • Do complete all required sections relevant to your request, such as Sections A, B, D, and E.
  • Do ensure that any necessary signatures are notarized, especially for new lien recordings.
  • Do attach the current title if required; failure to do so can delay your application.
  • Don't send cash; instead, use a check or money order made payable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
  • Don't forget to mail the application to the correct address: PA Department of Transportation, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 68593, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8593.

Misconceptions

Understanding the MV-38L form can be challenging, and several misconceptions often arise. Here are seven common misunderstandings regarding this form:

  • The MV-38L form is only for duplicate titles. Many believe this form is solely for obtaining a duplicate title, but it also serves multiple purposes, such as recording or renewing liens and correcting lienholder information.
  • All lien-related requests require notarization. While notarization is necessary for many sections, it is not required for every type of request. For instance, changing the lienholder's address does not need notarization.
  • You can submit the form without a current title. This is not accurate. If the current title is not available, specific sections must be completed, and additional information may be required to process the request.
  • Fees are the same for all transactions. Fees vary depending on the action being taken. For example, recording a new lien incurs a different fee than renewing an existing one.
  • Only the lienholder can complete the MV-38L form. While the lienholder typically submits the form, vehicle owners may also need to sign it, especially when a new lien is being recorded.
  • The form can be submitted without any supporting documents. This is misleading. Depending on the request, additional documentation, such as the original title or proof of address change, may be necessary.
  • Once a lien is recorded, it cannot be changed. This is incorrect. The MV-38L form allows for changes to lienholder information, including name corrections or address updates.

Being aware of these misconceptions can help ensure that the MV-38L form is completed accurately and submitted correctly, facilitating a smoother process with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the MV-38L form, keep the following key points in mind:

  • Understand the Purpose: The MV-38L form is used to apply for a duplicate title, record or renew a lien, remove a lien, or correct lien information.
  • Sections to Complete: Depending on your request, you will need to fill out specific sections of the form. For example, if applying for a duplicate title, complete Sections A, B, and E.
  • Fees and Payments: Be aware of the fees associated with each type of request. For instance, a duplicate title requires a $58 fee.
  • Notarization Required: Certain sections require notarization. Ensure you have the necessary signatures from the lienholder and vehicle owner where applicable.
  • Current Title Status: Check if the current title is an Electronic Lien and Title (ELT). Some options cannot be selected if the title is an ELT.
  • Mailing Instructions: Send the completed form to the appropriate address: PA Department of Transportation, Bureau of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 68593, Harrisburg, PA 17106-8593.
  • Signature Requirements: The vehicle owner’s signature is required only when a new lien is being recorded. It does not need notarization.
  • Address Changes: If changing the lienholder's address, follow specific instructions based on whether a replacement title is needed.
  • Time Constraints: Be mindful of deadlines, especially when renewing a lien. A lien can only be renewed within six months of its expiration.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your MV-38L form is completed accurately and efficiently.