Car Title Errors in California
How to fix a title error in California — name misspellings, VIN corrections, lienholder mistakes, correction fees, and the bonded title process when the ownership chain is broken.
Title Correction Fee in California
$24 title fee for most corrections
Common Title Errors
- !Misspelled owner name
- !Incorrect VIN (transposed digits)
- !Wrong year or make on title
- !Lienholder name/address change
- !Missing odometer disclosure
- !Incorrect purchase price
How to Fix Each Error Type
Name Error
For a name spelling error on a California title, submit REG 227 with a government ID matching the correct name. DMV will issue a corrected title within 4-6 weeks or immediately at a field office.
VIN Error
VIN errors require a physical VIN verification by a DMV inspector (REG 31 form) before a corrected title is issued. Make an appointment at a DMV field office.
Lienholder Error
Lienholder name changes (lender mergers, payoffs) are processed by the lienholder directly — they submit the title with the lien release or corrected lien information.
Correction Process in California
California DMV issues a corrected title (REG 227 — Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title) for name spelling errors, VIN corrections, and lienholder updates. Submit with original title, supporting documentation, and the applicable fee.
Bonded Title in California
California offers a bonded title process for vehicles with missing or defective titles. A surety bond equal to 1.5× the vehicle value is required for 3 years before a clear title is issued.
California Note
California DMV offices are busy — for most title corrections, mailing in REG 227 with supporting documents is faster than visiting in person. Expect 4-6 weeks for mail processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I correct a name error on a car title in California?
- For a name spelling error on a California title, submit REG 227 with a government ID matching the correct name. DMV will issue a corrected title within 4-6 weeks or immediately at a field office.
- How do I fix an incorrect VIN on a car title in California?
- VIN errors require a physical VIN verification by a DMV inspector (REG 31 form) before a corrected title is issued. Make an appointment at a DMV field office.
- What does a title correction cost in California?
- California title correction fee: $24 title fee for most corrections. California DMV issues a corrected title (REG 227 — Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title) for name spelling errors, VIN corrections, and lienholder updates. Submit with original title, supporting documentation, and the applicable fee.
- What is a bonded title and when do I need one in California?
- A bonded title is used when the original title is missing or the ownership chain is broken. California offers a bonded title process for vehicles with missing or defective titles. A surety bond equal to 1.5× the vehicle value is required for 3 years before a clear title is issued.
- Can I sell a car with a title error?
- Selling a vehicle with a known title error creates legal risk for both parties. The buyer may be unable to register the vehicle, and you may face liability for the defective title. Correct the error before selling whenever possible. If time is critical, disclose the error in writing on the bill of sale and reduce the price to reflect the clearing cost.
- What are the most common car title errors?
- The most common title errors are: (1) misspelled owner name — especially after marriage/divorce name changes; (2) transposed VIN digits from data entry; (3) wrong vehicle year or model from dealer processing; (4) missing lienholder from financing; (5) odometer disclosure errors from mileage typos. California common errors: Misspelled owner name, Incorrect VIN (transposed digits), Wrong year or make on title, Lienholder name/address change, Missing odometer disclosure, Incorrect purchase price.
Title Fixed? Complete the Sale in California
A bill of sale documents the corrected title details, sale price, and transfer — protecting both buyer and seller after the title is cleared.
Generate California Bill of Sale