How to Get My Ex-Wife's Name off the Car Title

Check your local Department of Motor Vehicles website to find out what legal documents are required to remove your ex-wife's name from your car title. Most states require that you bring your divorce decree papers evidencing the transfer of title to your name, the certificate of title and proof of insurance with you to the local department. Your ex-wife will need to sign the certificate of title transferring title to you. The signature of any lien holder is required as well. You will be required to pay a fee for the title transfer and new registration.

Things You'll Need

• Certificate of title
• Divorce decree
• Lien holder signature
• Proof of liability insurance
• Transfer and registration fee

Instructions

Transferring Title

1. 

   Check with your attorney about the procedure to remove your ex-wife's name from your car title prior to your divorce decree. Visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles website to determine what documents you must bring with you to obtain the new title and registration.

2. 

   Bring your certificate of title or pink slip, your divorce decree, certificate of insurance and any other legal documents your state requires to your Department of Motor Vehicles to request the title transfer and new registration.

3. After presenting the documentation to the Department of Motor Vehicles and paying the fees, you must wait for the department to update its computer records. The time limit varies from state to state. Expect that you will receive the new title and registration form in the mail within 60 days or sooner. Inform your ex-wife that she should file "notice of transfer" and "release of liability" forms with the local department, releasing her from any liability.

Tips & Warnings

• First check your state laws about how to transfer ownership and change your car's registration before making a trip to your local Department of Motor Vehicles. By bringing the proper legal documents, you will save time and avoid inconvenience. You should also check with your divorce attorney prior to finalizing your divorce about the legal procedures required by your state to remove your wife's name from your car title.

• To avoid delays and legal problems with your local Department of Motor Vehicles, be sure to request in your divorce settlement that your divorce decree includes language that transfers the vehicle's ownership to you and that the decree includes the vehicle description and identification number. Modifying a court order is much more difficult after the decree has been finalized, and it will cost you additional fees. Transfer the ownership into your name immediately after your divorce so that your ex-wife not incur any legal liability.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles:How to Change Vehicle Ownership
• Nevada DMV:Vehicle Registration:add or drop name

Resources

• California Department of Motor Vehicles:How to Change Vehicle Ownership