Changing Your Name in California

Changing Your Name on Your Driver License or ID Card

Before you change your name on your driver license or ID card through the California DMV, you must first contact the Social Security Administration. The DMV verifies your personal information with the Social Security Administration, and if the information does not match, your California driver license or ID card will not be mailed.

To notify the DMV of your name change, you will have to make a personal appearance at your nearby branch. The whole process might be a bit less painful if you make an appointment.

Before you go to the DMV, though, be sure to change your name on your Social Security card, and give the Social Security Administration at least 48 hours to process your request. (Visit the Social Security site for information on how to change your name.)

While at the DMV you will have to:

• DL 44, (an original, no copies).

• Provide a thumb print.

• Have your picture taken.

• Pay the application fee.

• Show proof of identity, whether through an original or certified copy of birth date/legal presence document or a true full name document.

After completion of the application procedure, you will be issued a temporary license or a receipt for your ID card or driver license. This can be used for the 60 days it should take to receive your photo ID in the mail.

If you have not received the license within 60 days call (800) 777-0133 to check on its status.

Don't forget to complete the name change process by having the name on your vehicle record updated as well.

Changing Your Name on Your Vehicle Record

You need to change the name on your vehicle record if:

• Your full name does not appear on the record.

• Your name is misspelled (it is not an error when a hyphenated name appears as one word on Certification of Title, and no correction is required).

• Your name changes, whether through wedding or divorce.

• You legally changed your name.

To update your vehicle record with the correct name, simply submit your Certification of Title with the new name printed or typed in the "New Registered Owner" section, and fill out the pertinent name statement on the Statement of Facts form (REG 256). This statement will indicate your reasons for the name change. Make sure to include your signature.

If a lienholder Holds Your Title

If your financial institution holds the title to your vehicle, you only have to request that they complete the process listed above.

Ask your lender to submit the Certification of Title and completed name statement of the Statement of Facts form (REG 256) to the DMV for amendment.

Fees

There is no charge for making a name change to your vehicle record, but if you are adding or deleting another party (a transfer of ownership) fees apply.

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