Congratulations! You made the final payment. But you don't truly own your car "free and clear" again until the lien is legally removed.
Electronic Lien and Title (ELT)
Idaho uses an electronic system. When the lender receives your final payment, they are legally required to release the lien in the DMV database within a set number of days (usually 10-30 days to ensure the payment clears).
The Paper Title
Once the lien is released in the system, the Idaho DMV will print a clean title (without the lender's name on it) and mail it to your address on file. Ensure your address is current with the DMV!
Pro Tip: Request a Lien Release Letter
Do not just wait by the mailbox. Ask the lender for a "Lien Release Letter" or "Paid in Full Letter" immediately. Keep this document forever. If the DMV makes a mistake later, this letter proves you paid the debt.
Sarah Jenkins
Financial EditorSarah is a financial expert with over 10 years of experience in consumer lending. She is dedicated to transparency in the lending market.
