What you need to do to change the name on a car title

Changing a name on a car title requires you to submit paperwork to your state's motor vehicle department — the same office that issues titles. The exact documents and process depend on your state and why the name is changing. Most states require the current title holder to sign the request, proof of the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), a completed process form, and a fee that typically ranges from $10 to $50.

You cannot change a name on a title online in most states. You will need to mail documents, visit a local office in person, or use a third-party service licensed by your state. The process usually takes two to six weeks by mail, though in-person visits at some offices can be faster. If the title is held jointly or by a lender, both parties may need to sign off on the change.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact your state's motor vehicle department to learn which documents are required for your specific situation — the rules vary by state and reason for the name change.
  • You will need the current title, a document proving the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and a completed process form.
  • If a lender holds the title, you may need their written permission before the motor vehicle department will process the change.
  • Processing times range from two to six weeks by mail; some states offer faster service at in-person office visits.

Documents required to change a name on a title

The current title is always required. If you have lost it, you will need to request a duplicate title first — most states charge $5 to $15 for this and can process it in one to two weeks. Do not attempt to change the name on a lost title; get the duplicate in the current name first.

You must provide proof of the name change. For marriage, this is typically a certified copy of the marriage certificate. For divorce, a certified copy of the divorce decree showing the name change. For a legal name change through the court, a certified copy of the court order. Some states accept notarized copies; others require certified copies from the issuing agency. Call your state's motor vehicle department to confirm which type they accept.

You will need to complete your state's title process or amendment form. This form has different names in different states — it may be called an "process for Title," "Title Amendment," or "Correction of Title." read it from your state's motor vehicle website or request it by mail. The form asks for the vehicle identification number (VIN), current title number, old name, new name, and the reason for the change.

A notarized signature is required in some states but not others. Check your state's requirements before you sign anything. If notarization is required, you will need to have your signature witnessed and certified by a notary public, which costs $5 to $15 and takes a few minutes at a bank, library, or notary service.

How to submit your name change request

Start by visiting your state's motor vehicle department website and searching for "title amendment" or "name change on title." Most states have a dedicated page listing required documents and the mailing address. Write down the exact address — some states have separate addresses for different types of requests, and sending documents to the wrong office delays processing.

Gather all required documents, make copies for your records, and place originals in an envelope with a cover letter stating your name, the vehicle VIN, and that you are requesting a name change on the title. Include a check or money order for the fee (do not send cash). Mail everything to the address provided by your state.

If you prefer not to mail documents, check whether your state offers in-person service at local motor vehicle offices. Some states allow you to walk in with documents and receive a new title the same day or within a few days. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether an appointment is required.

A third option in some states is to use a licensed title service — a private business authorized by the state to handle title transactions. These services charge a fee on top of the state fee (typically $25 to $75 total) but can often process requests faster and handle the mailing for you. Search "[your state] licensed title service" to find one near you.

What happens if a lender holds the title

If you financed the vehicle, the lender's name appears on the title as the lienholder. You cannot change your name on the title without the lender's permission. Contact your lender and ask whether they will sign off on a name change. Some lenders will do this at no cost; others may require you to pay off the loan first.

If the lender agrees, they will either sign the back of the title or provide a separate document authorizing the name change. Include this signed document with your process when you submit it to the motor vehicle department. If the lender refuses or you cannot reach them, you will need to pay off the loan before you can change the name on the title.

Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order

A marriage is the most common reason for a name change on a title. You will need a certified copy of the marriage certificate. Some states accept a notarized photocopy; others require the certified original. Contact your state's motor vehicle department to confirm. Processing usually takes two to four weeks.

A divorce that includes a name change requires a certified copy of the divorce decree showing the new name. If the decree does not explicitly state the name change, you may need a separate court order. Some states require both the decree and a certified copy of the judgment. Check your state's specific requirements before you request documents from the court.

A legal name change through the court (not related to marriage or divorce) requires a certified copy of the court order granting the name change. This order comes from the court that processed your petition. If you do not have a copy, contact the court clerk's office and request a certified copy; fees vary by court but typically range from $5 to $20.

Processing time and what to expect

By mail, most states process title name changes in two to six weeks. This timeline includes mail delivery time, so allow extra days if you are sending documents from far away. Some states post tracking information online; others do not. After you mail your documents, keep copies of everything you sent and note the date.

If you do not receive your new title within the stated timeframe, contact your state's motor vehicle department and provide your name, VIN, and the date you mailed the request. They can tell you whether the request was received and where it stands in the queue. If documents were lost or rejected, they will tell you what to resubmit.

When your new title arrives, check it carefully. Verify that your name is spelled correctly, the VIN matches your vehicle, and all other information is accurate. If there is an error, contact the motor vehicle department when ready — correcting errors on a title can take additional weeks.

Changing a name on a title you co-own

If two people own the vehicle and both names appear on the title, both owners typically must sign the name change request. Some states allow one owner to change only their own name while the other owner's name stays the same. Other states require both owners to agree to any change.

Contact your state's motor vehicle department and explain your situation — whether you want to remove one name, add a name, or change one name while keeping the other. They will tell you which documents both owners need to sign and whether both signatures must be notarized. If one owner refuses to sign, you may need to go through a legal process to remove their name, which is separate from a straightforward name change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my name on the title if the vehicle is still being financed?

You can request a name change, but the lender must approve it first. Contact your lender and ask for written permission. If they approve, include their signed authorization with your process to the motor vehicle department. If they refuse, you will need to pay off the loan before the motor vehicle department will process the name change.

How much does it cost to change a name on a title?

State fees typically range from $10 to $50. If you use a licensed title service, add $25 to $75 on top of the state fee. Certified copies of documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) cost $5 to $25 each depending on which agency issues them. Notarization, if required, costs $5 to $15.

What if I lost my title and also need to change the name?

Request a duplicate title first in your current name, then submit a separate name change request once you receive it. Some states may allow you to combine these requests on one process — call your motor vehicle department to ask. Processing both changes separately typically takes four to eight weeks total.

Do I need to notify my insurance company about the name change?

Yes. Contact your insurance company and provide a copy of your new title once you receive it. Your policy should match the name on the title. Failing to update your insurance can cause problems if you file a claim.

What if my state's motor vehicle department rejects my process?

They will send a letter explaining why — usually missing documents, incorrect form, or unsigned paperwork. Correct the issue and resubmit. Keep the rejection letter and include it with your resubmission so the department knows you are responding to their request.