If you’re in Minneapolis or anywhere in the Twin Cities with a car that’s missing both the keys and the title, you can still donate it through Twin City Wheels. The missing title is the critical piece, but it’s completely solvable. Once you have a duplicate Minnesota title in hand, we can arrange free pickup with a flatbed tow truck that doesn’t need your keys to load the vehicle. You still receive a tax receipt and your donation helps support Heritage for the Blind.
Here’s how it really works in Minnesota. You’ll request a duplicate title from the Minnesota DVS (usually a small fee and about 1–4 weeks processing). While that’s in motion, we’ll answer your questions and help you plan for tow-truck access—whether your car is in a driveway in Nokomis, a garage in Northeast, or a lot in Brooklyn Park. When the new title arrives, you sign it, we schedule free towing anywhere in the metro, and our driver comes with the right equipment to move a keyless vehicle. No repairs, no emissions test, no registration needed. Just a clear, legal transfer and a simple way to clear that problem car from your life.
How to get your free pickup scheduled
1. Confirm your car is in a tow-accessible spot
Before anything else, make sure a truck can reach the vehicle. It doesn’t need to start or move, but a tow truck must be able to get reasonably close. Think about driveway access in Nokomis, alley clearance in Uptown, or parking-lot rules in Maplewood. When you contact Twin City Wheels, tell us exactly where the car sits so we can plan the right tow approach.
2. Apply for a Minnesota duplicate title right away
Because Minnesota requires a title to transfer ownership, your first official step is requesting a duplicate from the Minnesota DVS. You can apply by mail or at a local deputy registrar office in places like Richfield, Roseville, or Bloomington. There’s a small fee and typical turnaround is about 1–4 weeks. Put the application in as soon as possible so your donation isn’t delayed.
3. Contact Twin City Wheels and tell us you have no keys
Once your duplicate-title request is submitted, reach out to Twin City Wheels. Let us know clearly: no title yet and no keys. We’ll note that your vehicle is keyless so we can dispatch a flatbed or appropriate truck. This kind of tow can load your car in South Minneapolis, North Loop, or anywhere in the metro without needing to unlock doors or turn the ignition.
4. Receive your duplicate title and sign it over
When the new Minnesota title arrives in the mail, check that your name and the VIN match your vehicle. Then sign where indicated to release ownership to Twin City Wheels’ processing partner for Heritage for the Blind. You won’t need to meet at the DMV again—just keep the title ready for the tow driver or follow the simple instructions we provide for mailing or handing it off.
5. Schedule your free, keyless pickup anywhere in the Twin Cities
With your signed duplicate title ready, we’ll set your pickup time. Pickup is always free in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding suburbs—from Edina and St. Louis Park to Eagan, Coon Rapids, and beyond. We’ll send a tow operator equipped to handle a vehicle without keys. You don’t need to be there in many cases, as long as we’ve pre-arranged access and title handoff.
6. Get your tax receipt and know your car made an impact
After the vehicle is picked up and processed, you’ll receive a tax receipt. In most cases you can deduct at least $500; if the car sells for more, the receipt will show the actual sale price and you can use IRS Form 1098-C. Your problem car is gone, your driveway or lot is cleared, and your donation helps Heritage for the Blind provide services to people who are blind or visually impaired.
Potential complications to watch for
Minnesota won’t let you donate without a title
Tip: Even if the car is junked, Minnesota requires a title to transfer ownership. We can’t skip this step. Apply for a duplicate title as soon as possible; starting that clock now prevents long delays and lets us schedule towing right after your paperwork arrives.
Tight parking, garages, or alleys can complicate towing
Tip: A keyless vehicle is harder to move if it’s blocked in. When scheduling, describe your parking situation—underground ramp in Downtown, tight alley in Powderhorn, or street parking in Dinkytown. Clear obstacles or get permission from building management so the tow truck can get close and load safely.
Name and address must match on the new title
Tip: If you’ve moved from, say, St. Paul to Bloomington or changed your name, make sure the DVS has your current information before issuing the duplicate. Mismatches between your ID and title can slow pickup. Bring ID and any name-change documents when you visit the DVS office to avoid extra trips.
Loans or liens still showing on the vehicle record
Tip: If a bank or finance company is still listed as a lienholder on the title, Minnesota usually requires a lien release before transfer. Check with the DVS or your lender if you’re unsure. Clearing any old lien paperwork now keeps your donation from getting held up later in the process.