Adding a name to a car\u2019s certificate of title typically requires a trip to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, but the exact requirements and fees vary. Some states, such as Arizona and Florida, are implementing electronic titles, while California has a mail-in option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key takeaways:<\/span>
– Adding a name to a car title is similar to completing a title transfer wherein the \u201cseller\u201d is the current owner and the \u201cbuyers\u201d are the current owner and the person being added.
– Some states allow you to add a new owner to your vehicle registration, while other states require joint owners to file vehicle registration separately.
– You\u2019ll need to alert your auto insurance <\/a>provider of a new driver on your policy after adding a name to your car title.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/p>\n<\/div><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Step 1: Find your current title<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The name on a car title establishes proof of ownership for the vehicle. Adding another name to your car title grants joint ownership. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
State requirements for adding a name to a vehicle title may differ slightly. Typically, you need: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- The existing title.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Registration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Your driver’s license.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Personal auto insurance documents.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Step 2: Notify the lienholder, if applicable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you are still paying a car loan, your lender will be listed on your car title as a lienholder, meaning they own the car more than you do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If this applies, let the lienholder know you want to add someone to the title. As the primary owner, the lienholder needs to apply for the change by providing a letter with the car\u2019s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step 3: Sign the title with the new owner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n