Where and how to update your California registration

You update your California car registration through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), either online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The method you use depends on what you're changing — some updates can be done online through the DMV website, while others require a visit or mailed documents.

The fastest route for most changes is the DMV's online system at dmv.ca.gov. You can update your address, add or remove a registered owner, change your mailing address, or request a duplicate registration card without leaving home. If your change involves the vehicle itself — like a new engine or major repair — or if you're adding a lien holder, you'll need to mail documents or visit an office in person.

In-person visits require an appointment, which you book through the DMV website. Walk-ins are not accepted at most California DMV offices. If you choose to mail documents, send them to the DMV office that covers your county, along with the completed form and any supporting paperwork the DMV specifies for your particular change.

Key Takeaways

  • Address changes and ownership updates can be done online through dmv.ca.gov without visiting an office or mailing anything.
  • Changes to the vehicle itself, such as engine replacement or major repairs, require mailed documents or an in-person appointment with proof of the work.
  • All in-person DMV visits require an appointment booked through the website; same-day walk-ins are not available.
  • Processing times vary: online changes are usually reflected within days, while mailed documents typically take two to three weeks.
  • You will need your current registration card, vehicle identification number (VIN), and proof of the change (such as a new address or insurance document) depending on what you're updating.

Updating your address on your registration

An address change is the most common registration update and can be completed entirely online. Go to dmv.ca.gov, select "Address Change," and enter your vehicle information and new address. You'll need your current registration card and driver's license number. The DMV will send a new registration card to your new address within one to two weeks.

If you've already moved and didn't update your registration, do it as soon as possible — California law requires you to notify the DMV within 10 days of moving. Driving with an outdated registration address on file can result in a citation if you're stopped by law enforcement, even though your vehicle itself is still registered.

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can mail Form REG 14 (process for Duplicate Registration Card) along with your current registration card to your county DMV office. Include a note with your new address. Processing by mail takes longer, usually two to three weeks.

Adding or removing a registered owner

Changes to vehicle ownership — such as adding a spouse, removing a co-owner after a divorce, or transferring the vehicle to a family member — require different documents depending on the situation. If both owners are present and in agreement, you can visit a DMV office with both signatures on the registration card and complete the change in person.

For ownership transfers between family members, you'll need to complete Form REG 65 (process for Title or Registration) and provide proof of the relationship and the reason for the transfer. If the transfer involves a sale, even between family members, you may need to pay a transfer fee and provide a bill of sale. The DMV website lists the specific documents needed for your situation.

Ownership changes cannot be completed online and require either a mailed process with all signatures and supporting documents, or an in-person appointment. Bring your current registration card, proof of identity for all parties involved, and any documents the DMV specifies for your type of change.

Reporting vehicle repairs or modifications

If you've had major work done on your vehicle — such as engine replacement, transmission work, or frame repair — you may need to update your registration to reflect the change. The DMV requires documentation from the repair shop showing what work was completed, including the date and the shop's information.

Take the repair documentation and your current registration card to a DMV office in person, or mail them with a completed Form REG 65. The DMV will review the documents and update your registration if the change qualifies. Some repairs don't require registration updates; the DMV website specifies which modifications do.

Processing times for repair-related updates are typically two to four weeks by mail, or same-day if you visit in person with all required documents. An appointment is required for in-person visits.

Updating your mailing address separately from your residence

If you want the DMV to mail your registration documents to a different address than where you live — for example, to a business address or a relative's home — you can update your mailing address without changing your official residence address. This is done online through dmv.ca.gov or by mailing Form REG 14 with a note specifying the mailing address you want used.

This is useful if you travel frequently, live in a temporary situation, or prefer documents sent to a workplace. The mailing address change takes effect within one to two weeks and applies only to DMV correspondence; your vehicle registration itself still shows your residence address.

Adding or removing a lien holder

If you financed your vehicle purchase and the lender is listed as a lien holder on your registration, or if you've paid off a loan and need to remove the lien holder, you'll need to update your registration. Adding a lien holder requires a letter from the lender showing the loan details and the vehicle information. Removing one requires proof of loan payoff, usually a letter from the lender stating the loan is satisfied.

Mail the lender's documentation along with Form REG 65 to your county DMV office. Processing takes two to three weeks. You cannot complete lien holder changes online or at a DMV office without mailed documentation from the lender.

What documents you'll need

The documents required depend on what you're changing. For an address change, you need your current registration card and driver's license. For ownership changes, you need the current registration card, proof of identity for all parties, and documents supporting the reason for the change (divorce decree, bill of sale, etc.). For vehicle repairs, you need the repair shop's documentation and your registration card.

The DMV website lists specific documents for each type of change before you submit or visit. Having the right documents ready prevents delays and rejected applications. If you're unsure what you need, call the DMV customer service line or check the specific form instructions on dmv.ca.gov.

Processing times and what to expect

Online changes are usually processed within one to two business days, and you'll receive a new registration card by mail within one to two weeks. Mailed applications typically take two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives them, not from the date you mail them — so factor in postal delivery time. In-person appointments are processed the same day if all documents are correct and complete.

After you submit an update, the DMV will mail you a new registration card reflecting the change. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need to drive before the new card arrives and you're concerned about the address discrepancy, you can print a temporary registration from dmv.ca.gov or request one by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I update my registration if my vehicle has an outstanding citation or fine?

Outstanding citations or fines do not prevent you from updating your registration. However, if your registration has been suspended due to unpaid fines or other violations, you must resolve that suspension before renewing your registration. Check your DMV record online to see if your registration is suspended.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to update my California registration?

If you've moved out of California permanently, you should register your vehicle in your new state. You can keep your California registration current if you still own property in California or plan to return, but most states require you to register vehicles you own in that state within a certain timeframe. Check your new state's DMV requirements.

How do I update my registration if I lost my registration card?

Request a duplicate registration card through dmv.ca.gov or by mailing Form REG 14 to your county DMV office. You'll need your vehicle identification number (VIN) and driver's license number. A duplicate card costs a small fee and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

Can I update my registration online if I'm not the sole owner?

Online updates for address changes can be done by any registered owner. For ownership changes or other modifications that affect all owners, all owners must agree, and the change typically requires an in-person visit or mailed documents with all signatures.

What happens if I don't update my registration after moving?

Driving with an outdated address on your registration can result in a citation if you're stopped. Additionally, the DMV may not be able to reach you about important notices, such as renewal reminders or safety recalls. Update your address within 10 days of moving to stay in compliance with California law.