Changing the name on a car title is necessary after a marriage, civil union or divorce. You can change the name of the owner on a car title by signing over the vehicle's original certificate of title and submitting the required paperwork to the local Department of Motor Vehicles branch office. The process may take several weeks and require an application fee.
Acquire the car's original certificate of title. Changing the owner's name on a car title will require the original title with the owner's previously-listed name. Contact the DMV to obtain a copy certificate of title if you cannot locate the original.
Sign the reverse side of the car's original certificate of title, indicating the change of name.
Obtain an Application for Certificate of Title form from the DMV or from your local municipality.
Complete and sign the Application for Certificate of Title, correctly indicating the change of owner name.
Obtain an official copy of your marriage, civil union or divorce certificate. These documents serve as verification of legal name change.
Schedule an appointment with a local DMV branch office. Be prepared to pay an application fee and submit the original title, application and certificate of legal name change.
