Maintaining an accurate California Certificate of Title is crucial as it’s a legal document. Whether your original title is lost, damaged, or requires updates due to a name change or error, this guide provides clear steps on how to change your car title.
Ordering a Replacement California Certificate of Title
If your California Certificate of Title has been lost, stolen, damaged, become illegible, or you never received it, you’ll need to order a replacement.
To request a replacement title, you will need to submit the following:
- A completed Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) (PDF).
- The original title, if you still have it.
- A valid California photo driver license (required for in-person submissions).
- Payment for the replacement title fee.
- If you’ve had another replacement title issued within the last 90 days and your registered owner information doesn’t match DMV records*, you’ll also need a Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) (PDF) certified by the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
You can submit your application through these methods:
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In-person*: Visit a DMV office. It’s recommended to schedule an appointment to avoid potential wait times.
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By mail: Send your application to:
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 of application submission.
*If your name or address on the application doesn’t match the DMV records (excluding obvious typos), you must apply in person. Bring proof of ownership, such as your vehicle registration card, and an acceptable photo ID like a driver’s license.
Requesting a Replacement Title Online
For added convenience, the DMV offers an online service to request a replacement title through their Virtual Office.
This online option streamlines the process, allowing you to apply for a replacement title from anywhere.
Changing or Correcting Your Name on the Title
Your California Certificate of Title and vehicle registration card must display your accurate full legal name. If your name is misspelled, has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you’ll need to correct it on your title.
To change or correct your name, submit the following:
- Your current California Certificate of Title. In the “New Registered Owner” section, clearly print or type your correct name.
- A completed Name Statement in Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) (PDF).
You can submit these documents to any DMV office or by mail to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Registration Operations
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Removing Information Entered by Mistake
If incorrect information, such as a name, was mistakenly entered on your title, you’ll need to complete a Statement to Record Ownership (REG 101).
This form helps rectify errors and ensures your title accurately reflects vehicle ownership details.
Changing your car title, whether it’s for a replacement, name correction, or error removal, is a straightforward process when you follow these guidelines. Ensuring your vehicle title is accurate protects your legal rights as a vehicle owner.
