Documents and information you'll need to bring
Changing a car title requires different documents depending on why you're changing it — whether you're adding or removing a name, correcting information, or transferring ownership. The most common requirement across all title changes is the current title certificate itself. You cannot change what's on a title without showing the state that you currently hold it.
Beyond the title, you'll need a government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the title. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card works. If you're changing the title because of marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, bring the legal document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for name change. The state motor vehicle department will not accept a new name without documentation.
If someone else is signing on your behalf, you'll need a power of attorney document specific to vehicle titles. A general power of attorney usually won't work. Some states require the power of attorney to be notarized; others do not. Check your state's motor vehicle website before you go, because notarization requirements vary.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring the original title certificate, a photo ID matching the name on the title, and any legal documents that prove why the title needs to change.
- Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and court orders for name changes are the documents most states require when a name on the title changes.
- If you're adding a co-owner, both owners must sign the title in front of a notary or at the motor vehicle office, depending on your state's rules.
- Fees for title changes range by state and by the type of change, but most cost between $15 and $50.
- Processing time is usually five to ten business days by mail, or same-day if you go in person to a motor vehicle office.
Why the state requires specific documents for each type of change
States treat title changes as legal transfers of ownership interest, even when you're only correcting a misspelling or adding a spouse's name. The motor vehicle department uses the title as proof of who owns the car and who has the right to sell it, register it, or use it as collateral for a loan. If the department accepted a name change without proof, someone could forge a document and claim ownership of a car that isn't theirs.
A marriage certificate proves that your legal name changed and that the person requesting the title change is the same person named on the original title. A divorce decree serves the same function when removing a name. A court order for a legal name change (separate from marriage or divorce) is the document that proves the change in all other cases. Without these, the motor vehicle department has no way to verify that the person at the counter is actually the person on the title.
Adding a co-owner to an existing title
Adding a co-owner requires both the current owner and the new co-owner to sign the title. Most states require this signature to happen in front of a notary public or at the motor vehicle office itself. You cannot mail in a title with both signatures unless your state specifically allows it — and most do not, because the state needs to verify that both people are present and willing.
Bring both owners' photo IDs, the current title, and the completed process form for your state (usually called an process for Title or process for Registration). Some states charge an additional fee for adding a co-owner; others charge the standard title change fee. The new co-owner does not need to bring proof of residency or insurance at the time of the title change, though they will need those documents when they register the vehicle.
Removing a name from a title
Removing a name — usually after a divorce or separation — requires the person being removed to sign the title, or a court order that authorizes the removal without their signature. If you have a divorce decree that awards the car to one spouse, that decree can substitute for the other spouse's signature. Bring the divorce decree along with the title and the ID of the person keeping the car.
If the other owner refuses to sign and you have no court order, you cannot remove their name unilaterally. You would need to go to court and obtain an order, which is a separate legal process. Some states allow a person to file a complaint with the motor vehicle department if they believe they are wrongfully listed on a title, but this is slower and requires documentation of the dispute.
Correcting errors on an existing title
Misspellings, wrong VIN numbers, or incorrect odometer readings can be corrected by bringing the title, your ID, and a written explanation of what is wrong. Some states require you to fill out a specific form for corrections; others allow you to write a letter. The motor vehicle department will not correct information without evidence that the original entry was wrong — so if the VIN is incorrect, bring the vehicle registration or the manufacturer's label from the driver's side door jamb to prove what the correct VIN is.
Correcting a title usually costs less than a full title replacement, sometimes nothing at all. Processing time is typically the same as any other title transaction. If the error is on the title but matches what the previous owner entered, you may need documentation from the previous owner or a bill of sale showing what information was supposed to be on the title.
How to submit your title change request
Most states offer three ways to change a title: in person at a motor vehicle office, by mail, or online through the state's motor vehicle website. In-person changes are processed the same day or within a few hours. Mail submissions take five to ten business days after the office receives them, plus mailing time both ways. Online changes, where available, are usually processed within three to five business days.
If you go in person, bring all original documents — do not send photocopies. If you mail your request, send copies of everything except the original title, which must be the actual certificate. Include a check or money order for the fee; most states do not accept credit cards by mail. Keep a copy of everything you send, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
Online submission is available in some states for straightforward changes like name corrections or adding a spouse after marriage. You will upload images of your documents and pay the fee by credit card. Not all states offer this option, and not all types of changes can be done online — co-owner additions and removals usually require in-person or notarized signatures.
Fees and processing timelines by submission method
| Submission Method | Typical Fee Range | Processing Time | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| In person at motor vehicle office | $15–$50 | Same day or within hours | Adding a co-owner, removing a name, or when you need the new title quickly |
| By mail | $15–$50 | 5–10 business days after receipt, plus mailing time | Correcting errors or straightforward name changes when you can wait |
| Online (where available) | $15–$50 | 3–5 business days | Name corrections or adding a spouse, if your state offers it |
Fees vary by state and sometimes by county. Some states charge a flat fee for any title change; others charge different amounts depending on whether you're adding a name, removing a name, or correcting information. A few states charge no fee for correcting errors that were the state's mistake. Check your state's motor vehicle website for the exact fee before you go or submit your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change a title if the car has a lien on it?
No, not without the lienholder's permission. If a bank or finance company holds a lien, their name appears on the title, and they have a legal interest in the car. You cannot add or remove names without written consent from the lienholder. Contact your lender and ask for a lien release or written permission to modify the title.
What if I lost the original title certificate?
You can request a duplicate or replacement title from your state motor vehicle department. Bring your ID, proof of ownership (like a registration or bill of sale), and pay the replacement fee, which is usually $10–$25. Once you have the replacement title, you can then make the changes you need. This takes an extra step but is a straightforward process.
Do I need to notarize my signature if I'm changing the title by mail?
It depends on your state and the type of change. Most states require notarization only when two people must sign (like adding a co-owner) or when someone is signing on behalf of the owner (power of attorney). straightforward name changes or corrections usually do not require notarization if you mail them in. Check your state's motor vehicle website or call their customer service line to confirm what your state requires.
How long does it take to receive the new title in the mail?
If you submit in person, the new title is usually mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you submit by mail, add five to ten business days for processing plus mailing time in both directions, so plan for two to three weeks total. Online submissions typically arrive within one to two weeks. Some states offer rush processing for an extra fee.
Can I drive the car while my title change is being processed?
Yes. The title change does not affect your registration or your right to drive the car. Your current registration remains valid during the title change process. You do not need to wait for the new title to arrive before driving. However, if you're selling the car, the buyer will need the new title before they can register it in their name.