California Car Title Correction
Correcting a car title error in California requires specific forms and documentation depending on the type of error. VIN corrections are the most involved — they require a physical vehicle inspection. Name corrections are usually straightforward with ID and supporting documentation.
Never Use White-Out on a Vehicle Title
Correction fluid voids the title document entirely. If you or the previous owner used white-out, you will need to apply for a completely new title through a more involved process — not just a standard correction.
Correction Fee
$21
Standard CA DMV title fee applies to corrected title issuance.
Processing Time
4–8 weeks
CA DMV mail-in processing. Expedited service available at select DMV offices.
Form to Use
REG 227 (Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title) or REG 256 (Statement of Facts)
CA DMV uses REG 256 for correcting factual errors on a title. REG 227 is used when the physical title is missing. Both may be required together depending on the error type.
Most Common Title Errors in California
- •Misspelled owner name
- •Wrong year/make/model
- •Incorrect VIN digit
- •Wrong odometer reading
- •Lienholder not properly released
Most title corrections in California require a Statement of Facts (REG 256) explaining the error and the correct information.
How to Correct a VIN Error
Process
Submit REG 256 explaining the VIN discrepancy + a CHP inspection report confirming the correct VIN. CHP will physically verify the VIN before any correction is made.
VIN corrections require CHP field inspection. You cannot correct a VIN by mail without an in-person VIN verification.
How to Correct a Name Error
Process
Submit REG 256 with legal documentation showing the correct name (driver's license, passport, or court order). No in-person inspection needed for name corrections.
Name corrections due to marriage/divorce require the REG 256 plus supporting documentation (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
California Note
California processes hundreds of thousands of title corrections annually. VIN corrections are the most scrutinized — CHP inspections are mandatory and cannot be bypassed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What form do I use to correct a car title error in California?
In California, use REG 227 (Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title) or REG 256 (Statement of Facts). CA DMV uses REG 256 for correcting factual errors on a title. REG 227 is used when the physical title is missing. Both may be required together depending on the error type.
How much does a car title correction cost in California?
The title correction fee in California is $21. Standard CA DMV title fee applies to corrected title issuance.
How do I correct a VIN error on a car title in California?
Submit REG 256 explaining the VIN discrepancy + a CHP inspection report confirming the correct VIN. CHP will physically verify the VIN before any correction is made. VIN corrections require CHP field inspection. You cannot correct a VIN by mail without an in-person VIN verification.
How do I correct a name error on a car title in California?
Submit REG 256 with legal documentation showing the correct name (driver's license, passport, or court order). No in-person inspection needed for name corrections. Name corrections due to marriage/divorce require the REG 256 plus supporting documentation (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).