How to Change a Car Title Address

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. ^[10]

1. 1
   Contact 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. ^[11] You might also be able to find this information on their website. ^[12]

   • In 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. ^[13]
2. 2
   Visit 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. ^[14]

   • 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.
3. 3
   Transfer 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. ^[15]

   • Print your insurance card after you transfer your insurance. You'll need it to register your car.
4. 4
   Get 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. ^[16]

   • When 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.
5. 5
   Bring 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: ^[17]

   • Title from your old state
   • Driver's license from your new state
   • Insurance card
   • Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other proof of residency
6. 6
   Fill 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. ^[18]

   • 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.
7. 7
   Pay 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. ^[19]

   • You'll usually get your registration immediately. However, your title certificate will likely be mailed to you.
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