What you need to do to change a name on a car title
Changing the name on your car title means updating the official ownership document with your state's motor vehicle department. The process differs by state, but the basic steps are the same: you fill out a form, provide proof of identity and ownership, pay a fee, and submit everything to your state's DMV or equivalent agency. Most states let you do this by mail, in person, or online, though the fastest route is usually in person at a local office.
You'll need your current title, a government-issued ID, and proof that you have the right to make the change — usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or power of attorney. Some states require the signature of everyone currently listed on the title. The fee ranges depending on your state, typically between $10 and $50. Processing time varies from same-day (if you go in person) to several weeks by mail.
Key Takeaways
- Contact your state's DMV or motor vehicle department first to learn the exact form you need and what documents they require, because rules vary by state.
- You will need your current title, a government-issued ID, and legal proof of the reason for the name change — such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- In-person visits to a local DMV office usually result in a new title the same day, while mail submissions typically take two to four weeks.
- Both people currently on the title may need to sign the form, so check your state's rules before you submit.
Reasons you might need to change a name on a title
The most common reason is marriage or divorce. When you marry, you may take a new last name and want the title to match your current legal name. When you divorce, your name may revert to a former name, or you may have been listed as a co-owner with an ex-spouse and need to remove their name.
Other reasons include a legal name change through a court order, a correction if your name was spelled wrong on the original title, or adding or removing a co-owner. If you inherited a vehicle, you may need to change the title from the deceased owner's name to yours. If someone gave you power of attorney to handle their vehicle, you might need to update the title on their behalf.
How to find your state's specific form and requirements
Start by visiting your state's DMV website directly. Search "[your state] DMV name change on title" or look for a section labeled "Title Services" or "Vehicle Ownership." Most states post the exact form online as a PDF you can read and print, or they let you fill it out on their website before printing.
If you can't find it online, call your state's DMV customer service line or visit a local office in person. Have your current title handy when you call — the agent will tell you which form to use, what documents to bring, and whether both owners need to sign. Some states have different forms depending on whether you're changing a name, adding an owner, or removing one, so getting the right form the first time saves a trip.
Documents you'll need to gather
Every state requires your current title and a government-issued photo ID. Beyond that, the supporting documents depend on why you're changing the name. If you married, bring your marriage certificate. If you divorced, bring the divorce decree or a certified copy. If you had a legal name change through a court, bring the court order. If you're correcting a misspelling, you may only need your ID and current title.
Some states require certified copies of these documents rather than photocopies. A certified copy is an official version stamped by the issuing agency — you get these from the county clerk's office, vital records office, or court that issued the original. Ask your DMV whether they accept photocopies or need certified copies before you order them, because certified copies cost extra and take time to arrive.
Whether you can do this by mail, online, or in person
Most states offer all three options, but the speed and ease vary. In-person is fastest: you walk in with your documents, fill out the form at the counter, pay the fee, and often leave with a new title the same day or within a few days. The downside is waiting in line, which can take an hour or more depending on how busy your local office is.
Online submission is available in some states and is convenient if your state's system supports it — you upload documents, pay by credit card, and the new title arrives by mail in two to four weeks. Mail submission works everywhere but is slowest: you print the form, gather documents, mail everything in, and wait three to six weeks for processing and return mail. If your state allows it, online is usually the middle ground between speed and convenience.
The fee and how long it takes
Title change fees vary by state. Most states charge between $10 and $50 for a name change or ownership update. Some states charge extra if you're adding or removing a co-owner, or if you need a duplicate title. Check your state's DMV website or call ahead to confirm the exact fee, because you'll need to bring payment when you submit.
Processing time depends on how you submit. In-person submissions at a DMV office usually result in a new title within one to five business days, and some offices issue it the same day. Mail submissions typically take two to six weeks from the day the DMV receives your envelope. Online submissions fall in between, usually two to four weeks. If you need the title urgently — for example, to sell the car — going in person is your fastest option.
What happens if both owners need to sign
Many states require everyone currently listed on the title to sign the form before you submit it. This protects both owners by making sure neither person can change the title without the other's knowledge. If you're married and both names are on the title, you both need to sign. If you're divorced and your ex is still listed, they need to sign too.
If the other owner won't sign or is unreachable, you have limited options. Some states let you go to court and get a judge's order to remove the other person's name, but this is expensive and time-consuming. A few states allow you to submit a notarized statement explaining why you can't get the other signature, though this is rare. Your best move is to contact your state's DMV and ask what options exist in your situation — they may have a process for co-owner disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the name on my title if I'm not the registered owner?
Not on your own. If someone else owns the car, they must request the name change or sign a power of attorney form giving you permission to do it on their behalf. Some states let you submit a signed power of attorney along with the form; others require the owner to appear in person or notarize the document.
What if my title is lost or damaged?
You'll need to request a duplicate or replacement title first. Most DMVs let you do this at the same time you request a name change — you fill out both forms and pay both fees. The duplicate title arrives with the new name already on it, so you don't have to go back a second time.
Do I need to notify my insurance company after I change the title?
Yes. Contact your insurance company once you receive the new title and let them know your name has changed. They'll update their records to match the title. This prevents problems if you ever need to file a claim and the name on your policy doesn't match the name on your vehicle's ownership documents.
Can I change the title if the car has a loan on it?
Usually yes, but the lender's name will still appear on the title as a lienholder. You can change the owner's name without affecting the lender's interest in the vehicle. However, some lenders have rules about name changes, so contact them first to make sure there are no restrictions.
How do I remove my ex-spouse's name from the title after a divorce?
You'll need a copy of your divorce decree showing that you kept the vehicle. Some states let you submit the decree along with a form to remove the other person's name. Other states treat this as a title transfer and require both signatures. Check your state's DMV website or call to learn the exact process, because it varies.