How to Change Your Name on Your California Car Registration and Title After Marriage

If you recently got married and changed your last name, you’ll need to update your California vehicle registration and title to reflect your new legal name. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires name updates on both vehicle titles and registration documents to ensure they match your driver’s license and other legal records.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to updating your name on your California car title and registration after marriage.

Click here for our complete guide on how to change your name in California.

Why Do You Need to Update Your Car Title and Registration After a Name Change?

✔ Your registration and driver’s license must match to avoid issues with law enforcement. 

✔ If you sell or transfer your vehicle, your title must reflect your legal name. ✔ Your insurance provider may require your name change before processing claims. 

✔ Having mismatched documents can lead to delays when renewing your registration.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Name on Your Car Title and Registration in California

Step 1: Update Your Name with the California DMV

Before updating your car title or registration, your California driver’s license or ID must reflect your new name. 

Important: The DMV will not process your vehicle name change unless your driver’s license reflects your new legal name.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

When updating your name on your vehicle title and registration, bring the following to the DMV:

✅ Certified Marriage Certificate – Issued by the County Clerk’s Office. 

✅ Updated California Driver’s License or Real ID – Must show your new name. 

✅ Current Vehicle Title and Registration – Your existing documents. 

✅ Completed REG 256 Form (Statement of Facts) – Required to request a name change on DMV records. 

✅ Lienholder Authorization (if applicable) – If your car has a loan, you may need written permission from your lienholder to update your title. 

✅ Payment for Title Update Fees – Typically $15 for a title change.

Tip: Make copies of all documents for your records before submitting them to the DMV.

Step 3: Visit Your Nearest DMV Office

You must visit a California DMV office in person to process your name change on your vehicle title and registration.

📌 How to Schedule Your DMV Appointment:

• Visit the California DMV website.
• Select “Vehicle Title & Registration Name Change”.
• Choose your nearest DMV office and schedule an appointment.

Note: Some DMV locations allow walk-ins, but wait times can be long. Booking an appointment ensures a faster process.

Step 4: Submit Your Name Change Application

At the DMV, you will: 

✔ Submit your documents for verification. 

✔ Complete any additional DMV forms required for your specific case. 

✔ Pay the $15 title update fee (plus any applicable registration fees). 

✔ Receive a temporary registration document while your new title is processed.

Processing Time: Your updated vehicle title will arrive by mail in 4-6 weeks.

What If Your Car Has a Loan? (Lienholder Name Change Process)

If you are still making payments on your vehicle, your lienholder (bank or financing company) holds the title. In this case:

✔ Contact your lienholder’s customer service and inform them of your name change. 

✔ They may require a copy of your updated driver’s license and marriage certificate. 

✔ Some lenders will submit the name change to the DMV on your behalf. 

✔ If not, request a signed authorization letter from the lienholder and bring it to the DMV with your application.

Tip: If your lender handles the process, follow up to ensure the DMV receives and updates the new title.

How to Update Your Name on Your Car Insurance

Once your DMV records are updated, notify your auto insurance provider to avoid discrepancies between your policy and registration.

✔ Call your insurer and request a name update on your policy. 

✔ Provide your updated driver’s license as proof of name change. 

✔ Request a new insurance card reflecting your new name.

Tip: Some insurers may require a copy of your marriage certificate to update your name.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Update My Name on My California Car Registration Online?

No. You must visit a DMV office in person to update your vehicle title and registration.

How Long Does It Take to Receive My Updated Car Title?

Your new vehicle title will arrive in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

Do I Have to Pay a Fee for Changing My Name on My Car Title?

Yes, the California DMV charges a $15 fee to update a name on a vehicle title.

Can I Drive My Car While Waiting for the New Registration?

Yes. You will receive a temporary registration document until your updated title arrives.

What If My Car Is Leased?

For leased vehicles, your leasing company holds the title. Contact them to request a name update on the DMV records.

Final Steps: Get Your Vehicle Registration Updated Today

Updating your California car title and registration after marriage ensures your vehicle records match your new legal name. By updating your driver’s license first, gathering the necessary documents, and visiting the DMV, you can complete the process smoothly.