Whenever you move within the US, updating the registration and license tags for any vehicles you own is a necessary and important task. If you’ve paid off your car, you’ll also want to change the address on the car title to reflect where you currently live. Some states automatically change the address on your car title when you update your registration.X If your state doesn’t do this, though, you can still change the car title address easily. While there’s no fee to change your address if you move within the same state, you’ll have to pay regular vehicle registration fees if you move to a different state.
StepsMethod 1Method 1 of 2:In State
Use this method if you’re moving to a new address in the same state and you own your car outright. If your car is financed and you’re still making payments, the finance company will update your car title when you update your address with them.X
1Check the website of your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV). Each state has a slightly different process for changing your address if you move within the same state.XExpert SourceBryan HambyProfessional Auto BrokerExpert Interview. 11 June 2019. Typically, you have to update your address with the DMV first, which updates your license. Some states update the address on your registration and title automatically when you update the address on your license.XMost states technically require you to update your vehicle registration with your new address soon after moving. For example, in NY, you have 10 days to update your registration and title after you move.In some states, titling is handled in a separate office from the DMV. However, the DMV’s website will still tell you where you need to go and what you need to do to update the address on your title.X
2Change your address online if possible in your state. Check the website of your state’s DMV for online options. If you’ve moved within the same state, some states allow you to change your address on your title and registration online, without filling out a paper form or going to an office in person.XIf you have the option to change your registration address online, the DMV might also change the address on your title automatically. The website will let you know if you have to do anything additional to change the address on your title.
3Fill out a change of address form. Provide information about yourself and any other owners of the vehicle, including your new address.XExpert SourceBryan HambyProfessional Auto BrokerExpert Interview. 11 June 2019. Then, provide information about the vehicle that matches the information listed on the vehicle’s registration.XIf you’re changing anything other than your address, you may have to fill out a different form. For example, you might not be able to change the record owner of the vehicle using the same form you would use to change the address.
4Submit your form to the DMV. Unless you’re changing your address online, take the form to the local office in person or mail it to the address listed on the form. If you’re mailing your form, make a copy of it for your records before you mail it.XContact the office a week or so after you’ve mailed the form to confirm that your address has been changed on your title.If you want a copy of your title with your new address, order one from the same office. Don’t simply write the new address on your existing title certificate.X You may have to pay a small fee for the copy, but this usually won’t be more than a few dollars.Method 2Method 2 of 2:Out of State
Use this method if you’re moving to a different state, regardless of whether you own your car outright or are still making payments to a finance company. The state issues your new title when you register your out-of-state car.X
1Contact the finance company if you’re still making payments on your car. As long as you’re making payments on your car, the finance company has the title. They’ll need to send the title to the new state to get a title in that state. Call customer service and find out what their process is for changing the address on the title.XExpert SourceBryan HambyProfessional Auto BrokerExpert Interview. 11 June 2019. You might also be able to find this information on their website.XIn most states, you provide the name of the finance company to the DMV and they’ll request the title for you so they can issue a new one.In some states, such as Connecticut, you have to request that the finance company send your title to your new state.X
2Visit the nearest DMV office to get a new license. Check the DMV website to find out what you need to bring with you when you come to apply for a new license. Typically, you’ll need to make an appointment. As long as you have a valid license from another state, you usually won’t have to take any tests to get your new license.XExpert SourceBryan HambyProfessional Auto BrokerExpert Interview. 11 June 2019.If you’re under 21 or haven’t had your license for very long, you might be required to take a written test. The DMV website will have more information about this.
3Transfer your auto insurance to your new state. After you move, call your car insurance company and change your address with them. They’ll quote you a new premium for your auto policy based on your new address and the minimum insurance requirements in your new state.XPrint your insurance card after you transfer your insurance. You’ll need it to register your car.
4Get any required inspections or emissions tests in your new state. Contact your local office of motor vehicles to find out what tests or inspections are required for a new registration. You can also find this information online, typically with locations that are approved for testing.XWhen your inspection or testing is complete, an officer will give you a certificate showing that you passed. Keep this certificate—you’ll need it to register your vehicle and transfer your title to your new state.
5Bring documents to prove ownership, residency, and identity to the DMV. When you register your car for the first time, the state requires you to provide documents that prove who you are and that you own the car you’re trying to register. While specific documents required vary among states, typical documents you’ll need include:XTitle from your old stateDriver’s license from your new stateInsurance cardUtility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other proof of residency
6Fill out the title and registration application at your local DMV. Provide your name and address, driver’s license information, and information about the vehicle you want to register. Print your information neatly to avoid any mistakes or delays in processing your application.XExpert SourceBryan HambyProfessional Auto BrokerExpert Interview. 11 June 2019.You typically can’t register a car in a state for the first time online. However, you might be able to download the registration application online so you can go ahead and fill it out.
7Pay your registration fee to the DMV clerk. Registration fees vary widely among states, and even among cities and counties within the same state. If you’re concerned about the cost, contact the DMV ahead of time. You can also usually find this information online. The clerk issues your registration and new state car title when you pay our fees.XYou’ll usually get your registration immediately. However, your title certificate will likely be mailed to you.
