How to add someone to your car name
Auto repair

How to add someone to your car name

Proof of ownership of your vehicle, commonly referred to as a vehicle title deed or raffle, determines the legal ownership of your vehicle. This is a necessary document for the transfer of ownership to another person. If you have full ownership of your vehicle, your vehicle title will be in your name.

You may decide you want to add someone's name to your car ownership in case something happens to you, or give that person equal ownership of the car. This may be because:

  • you recently got married
  • You want to allow a family member to use your car regularly
  • You give the car to another person, but you want to keep ownership

Adding someone's name to a car's name is not a difficult process, but there are a few procedures you must follow to make sure it's done legally and with the approval of all parties involved.

Part 1 of 3: Checking Requirements and Procedures

Step 1: Decide who you want to add to the title. If you're just married, it could be a spouse, or you could add your children if they're old enough to drive a vehicle, or you want them to become owners if you should be incapacitated.

Step 2: Determine requirements. Contact your state Department of Motor Vehicles for requirements for adding someone's name to the title.

Each state has its own rules that you must follow. You can check online resources for your specific state.

Do an online search for your state name and motor vehicle department.

For example, if you're in Delaware, search for "Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles." The first result is "Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles."

Find the correct form on their website to add a name to your vehicle name. This can be the same as when applying for a car title.

Step 3: Ask the collateral holder if you have a car loan.

Some lenders won't let you add a name because it changes the terms of the loan.

Step 4: Notify the insurance company. Notify the insurance company of your intention to add a name to the title.

  • AttentionA: Some states require you to show proof of coverage for the new person you are adding before you can claim a new title.

Part 2 of 3: Apply for a new title

Step 1: Fill out the application. Complete an application for registration, which you can find online or pick up from your local DMV office.

Step 2: Fill in the Back of the Header. Fill in the information on the back of the header if you have it.

Both you and the other person will need to sign.

You also want to make sure you add your name to the requested change section to make sure you are still listed as the owner.

Step 3: Determine Signature Requirements. Find out if you must sign at a notary or DMV office before signing the back of the title and application.

Part 3 of 3: Apply for a new name

Step 1: Bring your application to the DMV office.. Bring your application, title, proof of insurance, and payment of any name change fees to your local DMV office.

You may also be able to send documents by mail.

Step 2. Wait for the new name to appear.. Expect a new title within four weeks.

Adding someone to your car is relatively easy, but it does require some research and some paperwork. Make sure you read all the rules carefully before submitting any forms to your local DMV to avoid future confusion.

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