Overview

Once you refinance or fully pay off your car loan, you may need to request a lien release to update your vehicle title. A lien release is a document from your lender stating that they no longer have a financial claim on your vehicle.

The process for obtaining a lien release varies depending on your state’s title laws and whether the title is held electronically or on paper.

When Do You Need a Lien Release?

✔ After Refinancing – Your previous lender must release their lien before your new lender’s lien can be applied.
✔ After Paying Off Your Loan – Once your loan is paid in full, a lien release confirms that your lender no longer has an interest in your vehicle.
✔ If You’re Moving to a New State – Some states require a lien-free title for out-of-state registration.

How to Request a Lien Release

Step 1: Check Your State’s Title Process

Each state has different rules for lien releases. Depending on your state, titles may be:
✔ Electronic (E-Titles) – Some states hold vehicle titles electronically, meaning lien releases are processed digitally.
✔ Paper Titles – In states that require paper titles, a physical lien release document must be provided.
✔ State-Specific Requirements – Some states may require additional steps, such as address updates or a request form submitted to the DMV.

💡 Tip: You can check your state’s DMV website for specific lien release requirements.

Step 2: Contact Your Loan Servicer

To request a lien release, reach out to Upstart customer support.  We can confirm:
✔ Whether your lien release has been processed.
✔ If any additional steps are required based on your state’s DMV rules.
✔ When you can expect to receive your updated title.

Step 3: Submit the Lien Release to the DMV (If Required)

✔ If your state requires a physical lien release document, you may need to submit it to the DMV to obtain a clear title.
✔ Some states automatically mail a clean title once the lien is released—check with your DMV to confirm the next steps.

How Long Does It Take?

✔ Electronic lien releases are typically processed within a few business days.
✔ Paper lien releases may take several weeks depending on your lender’s processing time and state DMV requirements.

💡 Tip: If you need a lien release quickly, contact your loan servicer to check on the status and request expedited processing if available.

Next Steps

If you’ve refinanced or paid off your loan and need a lien release, check your My Account dashboard or contact your loan servicer for assistance.