What you need to do to change your name on a car registration

Changing your name on a car registration requires you to submit a name-change document to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, along with proof of the legal name change. The exact process and required documents vary by state — some allow you to mail everything in, while others require an in-person visit. Most states charge a small fee, typically between $10 and $50, though some waive the fee if you're changing your name due to marriage.

You'll need your current registration, a government-issued ID showing your new name, and legal proof of the name change itself. That proof is usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers — the document that officially changed your name. Some states also accept a certified copy of a name-change court order if you changed your name through the court system rather than through marriage or divorce.

The timeline is usually quick: if you submit in person, you may walk out with an updated registration the same day. By mail, expect two to four weeks. Some states now offer online submission for name changes, which can speed things up to one to two weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You must submit your current registration, a government ID with your new name, and legal proof of the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to your state DMV.
  • The fee ranges from $0 to $50 depending on your state and the reason for the name change, with marriage-related changes often waived.
  • In-person submission usually produces an updated registration on the same day, while mail submission takes two to four weeks.
  • Some states now accept online submission for name changes, which can reduce processing time to one to two weeks.
  • You do not need to change your title separately in most states — the registration and title update together.

Documents you'll need before you visit or mail

Start by gathering your current vehicle registration and your government-issued ID that shows your new name. The ID must be a driver's license, state ID card, or passport — a utility bill or bank statement will not work. If you don't yet have an ID with your new name, you'll need to update that first through your state's DMV or the appropriate agency (passport applications go through the U.S. State Department).

Next, get the legal document that proves your name change. If you married, divorced, or adopted, you need the certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or adoption papers. If you changed your name through a court order, you need a certified copy of that order. "Certified copy" means an official copy with a seal or stamp from the issuing agency — a photocopy you made yourself won't be accepted.

Some states also require your vehicle's title, though many will pull it from their records if you provide your registration number and VIN. Call your state DMV before you go to confirm whether you need to bring the title itself or if they can access it electronically.

In-person submission at your local DMV

Visit your state's DMV website to find the office nearest you and check their current hours. Many DMVs now use appointment systems, so you may need to book a time slot rather than walk in. Bring your current registration, government ID with your new name, the legal document proving the name change, and your vehicle title if your state requires it.

When you arrive, tell the staff member you're updating your name on your registration. They'll verify your documents, confirm your vehicle information, and process the change. The fee will be collected at this point. In most cases, you'll receive your updated registration before you leave — some DMVs print it on the spot, while others mail it within a few days.

If your state requires a new title as well, the DMV will usually process both at the same time. Ask the staff member to confirm whether your title will be reissued automatically or if you need to request it separately.

Mailing in your name-change documents

If you prefer not to visit the DMV in person, most states allow you to mail in a name-change request. Go to your state DMV's website and look for the name-change form — it's often called a "Registration Change" or "Name Change" form. read it, fill it out completely, and sign it where indicated.

Make copies of your government ID (both sides) and your legal name-change document. Include the original or certified copy of the name-change document itself — do not send just a photocopy. Include your current registration and a check or money order for the fee if your state requires payment. Do not send cash.

Mail everything to the address listed on your state's DMV website for registration changes. Use certified mail with return receipt if you want proof the package arrived. Processing typically takes two to four weeks. Your updated registration will be mailed to the address on file with your vehicle.

Online submission where available

A growing number of states now offer online name-change submission through their DMV portals. Check your state's DMV website for an online registration services option. If available, you'll create an account, enter your vehicle information, upload images of your documents (government ID and legal name-change proof), and pay the fee by credit or debit card.

Online submission typically processes faster than mail — often within one to two weeks. You'll receive a confirmation email when your request is received and another when your updated registration is ready. Some states mail the registration to you; others allow you to print a temporary registration when ready and pick up the permanent one at an office.

Not all states offer this option yet, and some only allow online submission for certain types of name changes (such as marriage). If your state doesn't have an online option, you'll need to use in-person or mail submission.

What happens to your vehicle title

In most states, your vehicle title and registration are linked in the DMV system. When you update your name on the registration, the title updates automatically — you don't need to submit a separate request. However, some states do issue a new title document when your name changes, and it will be mailed to you along with your registration.

If you're financing the vehicle, the lender's name will remain on the title even after your name changes. The title will show both your name and the lender's name. If you own the vehicle outright, only your name will appear on the updated title.

If you don't receive an updated title within the timeframe your state promises, contact the DMV to confirm it was processed. Keep your old title until you receive the new one, in case you need proof of ownership for insurance or other purposes.

Updating your insurance and loan documents

After your registration is updated, contact your car insurance company and provide them with your new name. They'll update your policy to match your registration. This is important because your insurance policy must match your registration for claims to be valid.

If you have a car loan or lease, contact your lender or leasing company and inform them of your name change. They'll update their records and may send you updated loan documents or a new payment coupon book reflecting your new name. This step is required by most lenders and is part of keeping your loan account current.

You should also update your name with your state's vehicle inspection program if your state requires inspections. When you renew your registration or get your next inspection, the name on your inspection records should match your registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my name on my title and registration at the same time?

In most states, yes — they're processed together. When you submit a name-change request for your registration, the DMV will update your title at the same time. You don't need to submit separate requests. However, confirm with your state DMV whether they'll mail you a new title document or if the change is recorded electronically only.

What if I changed my name through marriage but don't have a certified copy of my marriage certificate yet?

You'll need the certified copy before you can update your registration. Contact the county clerk's office where you were married and request a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $25. In the meantime, you can update your driver's license using your marriage certificate (most states accept the original), then use that updated ID to help you get the certified copy if needed.

Can I change my name on my registration if I have an outstanding loan on the vehicle?

Yes. Your lender's name stays on the title regardless of your name change. The updated title will show both your new name and the lender's name. Notify your lender of the change so they can update their records, but the name change on the registration does not affect the loan itself.

What if I moved to a different state after my name change?

You'll need to register your vehicle in your new state and update your name at that time. Contact your new state's DMV for their registration process. You'll provide your old registration, proof of your new name, and proof of residency in the new state. Your old registration becomes invalid once you register in the new state.

How much does it cost to change my name on my registration?

Fees vary by state, typically ranging from $0 to $50. Many states waive the fee if you're changing your name due to marriage. Some states charge a flat fee for any name change. Check your state DMV's website or call them directly to confirm the exact fee before you submit your request.