Maintaining an accurate California Certificate of Title is essential as it’s a legal document verifying vehicle ownership. Whether you need to correct errors, update your name, or replace a lost title, this guide provides a step-by-step process on How To Change The Title Of A Car in California, ensuring you remain compliant with DMV regulations.
Ordering a Replacement California Certificate of Title
If your original California Certificate of Title has been lost, stolen, damaged, become illegible, or was never received, you’ll need to request a replacement. This process ensures you have a valid document proving ownership, which is crucial for vehicle registration, selling, or other legal processes.
To apply for a replacement title, you will need to gather and submit the following to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):
- Complete Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227): This form officially initiates your request for a duplicate title. You can download the form directly from the DMV website or obtain it at a local DMV office.
- Original Title (if available): If you still possess the damaged or incorrect original title, include it with your application.
- Valid Photo Identification: If submitting your application in person, you must present a valid California photo driver license or identification card for verification.
- Replacement Title Fee: A fee is required to process your replacement title request. Refer to the official DMV website for the most current replacement title fee.
- Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) (in specific cases): If you’ve had another replacement title issued within the last 90 days, and your registered owner information doesn’t match DMV records (excluding minor typos), you may need to include a Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) certified by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This is to confirm vehicle details and prevent fraudulent activities.
You have two options for submitting your application and required documents:
1. In-Person Submission at a DMV Office:
For direct assistance and immediate processing initiation, you can visit a DMV office. It’s highly recommended to schedule an appointment beforehand to minimize wait times and ensure efficient service.
2. Mail Submission:
If you prefer to apply by mail, send your completed application, supporting documents, and payment to the following address:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Registration Operations
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, California 94269-0001
Expect to receive your replacement title by mail within 15 to 30 calendar days from the date the DMV receives your application.
Important Note for In-Person Applications: If your registered owner name or address on record with the DMV is outdated (beyond simple typographical errors), you must apply in person. Bring proof of ownership, such as your vehicle registration card, along with your photo ID for verification purposes.
Online Replacement Title Request via Virtual Office
For added convenience, the California DMV offers an Online Replacement Title Request service through their Virtual Office platform. This online portal allows you to initiate your request digitally, potentially streamlining the process if your information is current and matches DMV records.
Changing or Correcting Your Name on a Title
It’s crucial that your California Certificate of Title and vehicle registration card accurately reflect your legal full name. Whether due to a misspelling, or a legal name change resulting from marriage, divorce, or court order, you must correct your name on the vehicle title.
To change or correct the name on your car title, prepare and submit the following:
- California Certificate of Title: On the original title document, clearly print or type your correct full name in the designated “New Registered Owner” section. This indicates the intended name change directly on the title itself.
- Completed Name Statement on Statement of Facts (REG 256): You must complete Section F, the Name Statement, within the Statement of Facts (REG 256) form. This form provides official documentation of the name change or correction you are requesting.
You can submit these documents either in person or by mail to the same addresses previously mentioned for replacement titles:
In-Person Submission: Visit any DMV office to submit your title and REG 256 form.
Mail Submission: Mail the required documents to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Registration Operations
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Removing Information Entered by Mistake
In situations where incorrect information, such as a name or other details, has been mistakenly entered onto the title, you will need to complete a Statement to Record Ownership (REG 101). This form allows you to officially document and rectify the error on record with the DMV, ensuring the title accurately reflects the intended information.
By following these guidelines and providing the necessary documentation, you can effectively change the title of your car in California, keeping your vehicle ownership records accurate and up-to-date. Always refer to the official California DMV website for the most current forms, fees, and processing times.
