What you need to do to change your car registration
Changing your car registration means updating the registration document itself — the certificate issued by your state's motor vehicle department — to reflect a new owner, address, or other key information. The process varies by state, but most require you to visit your local DMV office or submit documents by mail, and some allow online changes for address updates.
The most common reason to change registration is a move to a new address. Other reasons include ownership transfer after a sale or inheritance, a name change due to marriage or legal action, or correcting an error on the original certificate. Each situation has different document requirements and timelines.
Start by identifying what needs to change on your registration, then contact your state's motor vehicle department — usually called the DMV, Secretary of State, or Department of Motor Vehicles — to learn the exact steps and documents required. Many states post checklists online, and some allow you to begin the process before you visit in person.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes can often be completed online or by mail in most states, while ownership transfers and name changes usually require an in-person visit or notarized documents.
- You will need your current registration certificate, proof of identity, and proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease) for most changes.
- Ownership transfers require the seller's signature on the back of the registration or on a separate form, depending on your state.
- Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on whether you submit documents in person or by mail, and whether your state requires inspection or additional verification.
- Changing your registration does not automatically update your insurance policy, so contact your insurance company separately after the change is complete.
Changing your address on the registration
An address change is the simplest registration update in most states. Many states allow you to change your address online through the DMV website without visiting an office. You will typically need your registration number, driver's license number, and the last four digits of your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).
If your state does not offer online address changes, you can usually mail a form to the DMV. The form is often called a "Change of Address" or "Registration Update" form and is available on your state's motor vehicle website. Include your current registration certificate, a copy of your ID, and proof of your new address — such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
Some states charge a small fee for address changes, while others do not. Check your state's DMV website for the current fee and mailing address. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks, while online changes are often when ready or complete within a few business days.
Transferring ownership after a sale or gift
When you sell or give away your car, the new owner must register it in their name. As the seller, you are responsible for signing the back of your registration certificate or completing a separate "Assignment of Title" or "Transfer of Ownership" form — the exact document varies by state. Some states require both the seller's and buyer's signatures to be notarized.
The buyer then takes the signed registration, their proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of insurance to the DMV office in person. They will also need to pay the registration transfer fee, which varies by state and sometimes by vehicle value. The buyer should complete this transfer within a set timeframe — usually 10 to 30 days after purchase — or face a late fee or penalty.
If you are the buyer, do not delay this step. Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal in all states, and the seller remains liable for the vehicle until the registration is officially transferred. Keep a copy of the signed registration or transfer form as proof you have begun the process, in case you are stopped by police before the new registration arrives.
Updating your name on the registration
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you must update your registration to match your current legal name. You will need your current registration certificate, a government-issued ID showing your new name, and a document proving the name change — such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Most states require you to visit a DMV office in person for a name change, though some allow you to submit documents by mail if they are notarized. Call your local DMV office or check the website to confirm whether your state accepts mail-in name changes and what documents must be notarized.
Processing a name change usually takes one to three weeks if submitted in person, or three to six weeks if submitted by mail. Your new registration certificate will be mailed to you at the address on file.
Correcting errors on your registration
If your registration contains an error — such as a misspelled name, wrong VIN, incorrect vehicle color, or wrong address — contact your DMV office to report it. Some errors, such as a typo in your name or address, can be corrected by mail with a written request and a copy of your ID. Other errors, such as an incorrect VIN, may require an in-person visit or a vehicle inspection.
Do not ignore registration errors. An incorrect VIN or vehicle description can cause problems during a traffic stop, when selling the vehicle, or when filing an insurance claim. The sooner you report the error, the sooner it can be fixed.
Contact your state's DMV directly to learn the process for your specific error. Many states allow you to request a correction form online or by phone, and some can process straightforward corrections within a few business days.
What documents you will need
| Type of Change | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Address change | Current registration, ID, proof of new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement) |
| Ownership transfer (buyer) | Signed registration or transfer form from seller, ID, proof of address, proof of insurance |
| Ownership transfer (seller) | Current registration, ID; sign the back of the registration or a transfer form |
| Name change | Current registration, ID showing new name, proof of name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) |
| Error correction | Current registration, ID, written description of the error; may require additional documents depending on the error type |
What happens after you submit your change
Once you submit your registration change — whether in person, by mail, or online — the DMV will process it and mail you an updated registration certificate. The timeline depends on your state and the method you used. In-person submissions at a DMV office usually take one to three weeks, while mail submissions take three to six weeks. Online address changes may be when ready.
You will receive a confirmation number or receipt when you submit your change. Keep this document until your new registration arrives. If you need to drive the vehicle before the new registration arrives, some states issue a temporary registration slip or allow you to print a temporary document from the DMV website.
Remember that changing your registration does not automatically update your car insurance policy. Contact your insurance company separately to report your new address, ownership change, or any other relevant information. Failing to update your insurance can lead to coverage problems if you file a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my registration online?
Many states allow online address changes through the DMV website, but ownership transfers and name changes usually require in-person visits or notarized documents. Check your state's DMV website to see which changes can be completed online.
How long does it take to change a registration?
In-person changes typically take one to three weeks, while mail submissions take three to six weeks. Online address changes may be when ready or complete within a few business days. Processing times vary by state and current DMV workload.
Do I need to get my car inspected to change the registration?
Most address changes and name changes do not require an inspection. However, some states require an inspection if the VIN is incorrect or if you are transferring ownership. Contact your DMV office to confirm whether an inspection is needed for your specific change.
What if I move to a different state?
You will need to register your car in your new state within a set timeframe — usually 30 to 90 days after moving. Contact your new state's DMV office for the registration process and required documents. You may be able to transfer your current registration, or you may need to register the vehicle as new.
Can I drive my car while waiting for the new registration to arrive?
Yes, if you have a confirmation receipt or temporary registration document from the DMV. Keep this document with you while driving. Some states allow you to print a temporary registration from the DMV website, while others issue a paper slip at the office.