Life changes often bring about name changes, and when your name changes, updating your official documents is essential. If you’re a vehicle owner in North Carolina, this includes updating your vehicle registration and title with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV). This guide will explain How To Change Registration Name On Car in North Carolina, ensuring you remain compliant with state regulations.
Changing your name on your vehicle registration involves a straightforward process. Whether you’ve changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or another legal reason, NCDMV has a system in place to help you update your records efficiently.
Updating Your Name on Vehicle Registration and Title
To officially change the name on your North Carolina vehicle registration and title, you will need to complete and submit the Corrected or Substitute Title Application (MVR-5) form. This form is specifically designed for correcting errors or making necessary substitutions on your vehicle title, including name changes.
You can access and download the MVR-5 form directly from the NCDMV website. Make sure to carefully read both sides of the form as the reverse side contains important instructions and details regarding required documentation and additional information you may need to provide.
Once you have completed the MVR-5 form, you have two options for submission:
-
In Person: You can submit the form, along with the required fee, to a local license plate agency. This option allows for immediate processing and allows you to ask any questions you may have directly to agency personnel.
-
By Mail: Alternatively, you can mail the completed form and the fee to the following address:
N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles
Renewal, Title & Plate Unit
3148 Mail Service Center
Raleigh NC 27697
It is recommended to include your current vehicle title with your submission if it is readily available. Submitting your title will expedite the process.
Alt text: A close-up view of the MVR-5 form, highlighting sections relevant to name change for vehicle registration in North Carolina.
What if a Lien Holder Has My Title?
In many cases, especially if you have an active car loan, your vehicle title is held by a lien holder (the financial institution that provided the loan). Don’t worry, you can still change your name on the registration even if you don’t physically possess the title.
If a lien holder possesses your title, simply indicate this on the MVR-5 form. The NCDMV will then directly contact the lien holder to obtain the original title. This original title will be canceled, and the NCDMV will issue a new title and registration in your updated name. This process is handled by the NCDMV, so you do not need to contact the lien holder yourself regarding the title transfer for a name change.
Important Note: Driver’s License Name Change
While you are updating your vehicle registration, it’s also crucial to ensure your driver’s license or ID reflects your new name. In North Carolina, you are required to notify the NCDMV within 60 days of a name change and obtain a duplicate driver’s license or ID card.
Before visiting an NCDMV driver license office, it’s important to visit your local Social Security Administration Office at least 24-36 hours beforehand. This is because NCDMV will verify your name change through the Social Security Online Verification System.
To change your name on your driver’s license, you will need to bring documented proof of your legal name change, such as a certified marriage license, divorce decree, or court document, along with a notarized DL-101 form (obtainable at the DMV office).
Alt text: A DMV customer service representative assisting a person with document submission, representing the in-person process for name change related services.
Address Changes and Contact Information
While this article focuses on name changes, it’s also important to keep your address current with NCDMV. If you move within North Carolina, you must notify NCDMV online within 60 days and obtain duplicate license and registration card. For address changes only on your driver’s license or ID without moving, you can contact NCDMV Customer Contact Center.
Conclusion
Changing your name on your car registration in North Carolina is a necessary step after a legal name change. By completing the MVR-5 form and submitting it with the required fee and documentation to the NCDMV, you can ensure your vehicle records are accurate and up-to-date. Remember to also update your driver’s license and address with NCDMV to maintain full compliance. This proactive approach will help you avoid any potential issues related to vehicle ownership and identification in North Carolina.
