New York Car Title Correction
Correcting a car title error in New York 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
$50
Standard NY DMV title fee applies to corrected titles.
Processing Time
3–6 weeks
NY DMV mail-in processing. Regional office in-person visits may be faster for minor corrections.
Form to Use
MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application) with "Corrected" notation
New York uses MV-82 for corrected title applications. Submit with a cover letter explaining the specific error and the correct information, along with supporting documentation.
Most Common Title Errors in New York
- •Misspelled name
- •Wrong year or body style
- •Incorrect VIN digit
- •Odometer error
- •Wrong county of residence
NY DMV reviews title corrections carefully. Minor typos may be corrected with a simple affidavit. Major errors (wrong VIN) require investigation.
How to Correct a VIN Error
Process
Contact the NY DMV regional office. A DMV investigator may need to physically inspect the vehicle. Submit Form MV-78B (Odometer Disclosure Statement) if the odometer reading was also wrong.
NY DMV takes VIN integrity seriously — VIN corrections may trigger a title fraud investigation. Be prepared to provide full documentation of the vehicle's history.
How to Correct a Name Error
Process
Submit MV-82 with supporting documentation (driver's license, marriage certificate, or court order) showing the correct name. Can be done at a NY DMV office.
Name corrections due to marriage or legal name change in NY are routine and can typically be processed in 30–60 minutes at a DMV office.
New York Note
NY DMV requires all parties listed on the original title to sign the correction application. If both buyer and seller names are on the title, both must be involved in the correction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What form do I use to correct a car title error in New York?
In New York, use MV-82 (Vehicle Registration/Title Application) with "Corrected" notation. New York uses MV-82 for corrected title applications. Submit with a cover letter explaining the specific error and the correct information, along with supporting documentation.
How much does a car title correction cost in New York?
The title correction fee in New York is $50. Standard NY DMV title fee applies to corrected titles.
How do I correct a VIN error on a car title in New York?
Contact the NY DMV regional office. A DMV investigator may need to physically inspect the vehicle. Submit Form MV-78B (Odometer Disclosure Statement) if the odometer reading was also wrong. NY DMV takes VIN integrity seriously — VIN corrections may trigger a title fraud investigation. Be prepared to provide full documentation of the vehicle's history.
How do I correct a name error on a car title in New York?
Submit MV-82 with supporting documentation (driver's license, marriage certificate, or court order) showing the correct name. Can be done at a NY DMV office. Name corrections due to marriage or legal name change in NY are routine and can typically be processed in 30–60 minutes at a DMV office.