What you need to do to change a car registration

Changing a car registration means updating the official record with your state's motor vehicle department to reflect a new owner, address, or other key information. The process differs depending on what you're changing and which state you live in, but the basic steps are the same: gather documents, fill out the right form, pay a fee, and submit everything to your state's DMV or equivalent agency.

Most registration changes can be done by mail or online through your state's motor vehicle website. Some states let you renew or update an address without visiting an office at all. If you're transferring ownership to someone else, both the current and new owner usually need to sign paperwork, and the new owner will need to register the vehicle in their name.

The fee for changing a registration varies by state and by what you're changing. An address change might cost nothing or $10 to $20. A full re-registration after a sale or move can cost $50 to $200 or more, depending on the vehicle's value and your state's rules.

Key Takeaways

  • The documents you need depend on what you're changing—an address change requires less paperwork than transferring ownership to a new owner.
  • Your state's motor vehicle department website will tell you which form to use and whether you can submit it by mail, online, or in person.
  • Registration fees vary by state and by the type of change, so check your state's website for the exact cost before you submit.
  • If you're selling the car, the new owner must register it in their name within a set timeframe, usually 10 to 30 days depending on your state.
  • Keep your current registration and title documents until the new registration arrives, since you may need them to prove ownership during the transition.

Changing your address on an existing registration

If you've moved and need to update the address on your registration, start by visiting your state's motor vehicle department website. Most states have an online form you can fill out and submit without visiting an office. Search for "[your state] DMV address change" or look for a link labeled "Update Address" or "Change Registration Address" on the main page.

You'll typically need your current registration number, driver's license number, and the vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is printed on your registration, on your title, and on the dashboard of your car. Fill out the form with your new address, pay the fee (often $10 to $25), and submit. Many states process address changes within one to two weeks and mail you an updated registration.

If your state doesn't offer online address changes, you can mail a form to the DMV. Call your state's motor vehicle department or check their website to request the form, or read it directly if it's available online. Include your current registration, a check or money order for the fee, and a note with your new address. Mail it to the address listed on the form.

Transferring ownership when you sell the car

When you sell a car, the new owner must register it in their name. As the current owner, you need to sign the title document to transfer ownership. The title is a separate document from the registration—it proves who owns the car, while the registration is the permission to drive it on public roads.

Look at your title to see where to sign. Most titles have a section labeled "Seller's Signature" or "Assignment of Title." Sign and date this section, and provide the new owner with the signed title. Some states require the seller to also fill in the new owner's name and address on the title before signing. Check your state's rules on the motor vehicle department website or ask the buyer to confirm what they need.

As the seller, you should also notify your state's motor vehicle department that you've sold the car. Many states have a form called a "Notice of Sale" or "Release of Liability" that you mail in. This protects you if the new owner gets a traffic ticket or is in an accident before they register the car—it shows you're no longer the owner. read the form from your state's website or request it by phone, fill it out with the buyer's information, and mail it to the DMV.

The new owner then takes the signed title to their state's motor vehicle department (or submits it online if the state allows) along with proof of insurance, a bill of sale, and payment for registration and title fees. They'll receive a new registration in their name. Most states require this to happen within 10 to 30 days of the sale.

Registering a car in a new state after moving

If you've moved to a new state and want to register your car there, you'll need to register it with your new state's motor vehicle department. Requirements vary, but you'll typically need your current out-of-state registration, your title, proof of insurance from an insurer licensed in your new state, and a bill of sale or proof of purchase.

Some states require an emissions test or safety inspection before you can register. Check your new state's motor vehicle website to see what's required. You may also need to pass a vehicle inspection at a designated inspection station, which can take a few days to schedule.

Visit your new state's motor vehicle office in person or check whether they allow online registration. Bring all required documents, your driver's license, and payment for registration and title fees. The fee structure in your new state may be different from your old state, so ask what the total cost will be. You'll receive a new registration and, if you need a new title, a new title document.

Keep your old registration and title until you receive the new ones. If you're stopped by police during the transition, having the old registration shows you've been a registered owner and are in the process of updating your records.

Updating registration after buying a used car

When you buy a used car, you become the new owner and must register it in your name. The seller should give you the signed title and their current registration. Take these documents to your state's motor vehicle department along with proof of insurance, a bill of sale (or receipt showing the purchase price), and your driver's license.

Some states require a vehicle inspection or emissions test before registration. Check your state's requirements before you visit the DMV office. If an inspection is needed, you may need to schedule it at a separate location first, then bring the inspection certificate to the DMV.

Pay the registration and title fees, which vary by state and often depend on the vehicle's age and value. You'll receive a new registration in your name and a new title document. Most states require you to complete this within 10 to 30 days of purchase, so don't delay.

Changing the name on a registration

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you'll need to update your registration. You'll need your current registration, your title, and a document proving the name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change.

Contact your state's motor vehicle department to find out whether you can submit the change by mail or must visit in person. Some states allow name changes online if you have a digital ID or can verify your identity through their website. read or request the appropriate form, include your proof of name change, and submit it with payment for any applicable fees.

The DMV will issue a new registration and title in your new name. Keep your old documents until the new ones arrive, in case you need to prove ownership during the transition.

What to do if you lose your registration or title

If your registration is lost or damaged, contact your state's motor vehicle department to request a replacement. Most states charge a small fee ($5 to $15) and can mail you a duplicate within one to two weeks. You can usually request a replacement online or by mail without visiting an office.

If you lose your title, the process is similar but may take longer. A lost title is a bigger concern because it proves ownership. You'll need to request a duplicate title from your state's motor vehicle department, and you may need to provide proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale or previous registration. Some states require you to visit an office in person for a lost title replacement.

While waiting for replacements, keep any documents you have that show ownership or registration history. If you're pulled over, explain that you've requested replacements and show the officer any proof you have.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new registration after I submit the change?

Most states mail a new registration within one to three weeks of receiving your request. Online submissions sometimes process faster than mail-in forms. Check your state's motor vehicle website for the specific timeline, as it varies. You can usually drive with your old registration until the new one arrives.

Do I need to visit the DMV in person to change my registration?

Not always. Many states let you change your address, renew your registration, or request a duplicate online or by mail. However, some changes—like registering a newly purchased car or transferring ownership—may require an in-person visit. Check your state's website to see which services are available online.

What happens if I don't register my car in my new state within the required time?

Most states require registration within 10 to 30 days of moving or purchasing a car. If you miss the important date, you may face a fine or be unable to renew your registration. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to find out the penalty and whether you can still register the vehicle without additional fees.

Can I change my registration online if I don't have a digital ID?

It depends on your state. Some states allow online registration changes with just your registration number and driver's license number. Others require a digital ID or in-person verification. Check your state's motor vehicle website to see what options are available to you.

Do I need to notify my insurance company when I change my registration?

Yes. If you've moved, changed the car's primary driver, or made any other change that affects how the car is used, contact your insurance company to update your policy. Failing to notify them could affect your coverage if you're in an accident.