About Changing Your Name on Your New York Registration

You must remember to change your name on your car registration in New York if your legal name changes. This is common after you marry, divorce or file an adoption request. 

To change your car registration information, you must visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to submit your request in person. 

Currently, you cannot change the name on your registration materials online or by mail. If you only need to perform a change of mailing or residential address, however, you may submit your request online. 

To learn more about performing a name change on car registration materials, review the information below.

Documents Needed When Changing the Name on a Car Registration in New York

When submitting your NY DMV name change request, you must submit a completed application, proof of automobile ownership and a valid photo ID. 

Download our free guide for a list of acceptable documents you can bring to the DMV office. 

During your visit, you may choose to update the name on your New York driver’s license as well.

As part of your name change checklist, you may need to submit additional documents depending on your situation.

For instance, if you wish to update your gender designation on your New York driver’s license, you must present proof of the change, such as a written statement from a licensed physician or psychiatrist.

Changing the Name on Your Car Registration in New York

To change your vehicle registration information, you must submit your request in person. During your visit, you must present proof of your legal change of name, such as an official court document. 

Unless you wish to obtain a replacement registration credential after submitting your request, however, there is no fee to update your name or address on your vehicle registration materials. 

Note: Before applying for a name change on vehicle registration credentials, you can reserve an appointment online before heading into your local DMV office, especially if you reside in New York City. 

Ordering a Duplicate Registration Following a New York DMV Name Change 

After submitting a New York DMV name change request, you have the option of purchasing duplicate documents before leaving your local branch. 

If you do not do so before leaving the office, you can order duplicate registration materials online or by mail after the DMV processes your name change request. 

Still have questions? Find your answers in our free guide.