(a) Application for duplicate.--In the event of a lost, destroyed, defaced, stolen or illegible certificate of title, application for a duplicate may be made by furnishing information satisfactory to the department upon a form prescribed and furnished by the department. The form shall be signed by the first lienholder or, if none, the owner or legal representative of the owner, verified by oath or affirmation of the applicant, accompanied by the fee provided in this title.

(b) Status of original and duplicate.--If the original certificate of title is found after the duplicate is issued, the original title shall be returned to the department with an explanation. Only the duplicate title is valid once issued. Subsequent transfer of ownership can be made only on the duplicate.