California Lienholder Change Help
Loan Paid Off
Remove a legal owner after a loan is satisfied and the required lien release is available.
Add or Change a Lienholder
Update the California title record when a new legal owner must be recorded.
Missing or Complicated Release
Review the title status and acceptable release documents before submitting the change.
Important Information
- When vehicle ownership or lienholder information changes, the California title record must be updated promptly.
- A properly endorsed title or another DMV-accepted legal-owner release is generally required.
- DMV Form REG 166 must generally be notarized; the form lists a limited exception for certain insurance-company salvage transactions.
- REG 166 cannot be used for a paperless title or a vehicle that is two model years or newer. In those cases, the title is required.
- Additional signatures, supporting documents, DMV fees, or taxes may apply depending on the record and transaction.
Review California DMV Form REG 166
Service scope: California Vehicle Plates is an authorized California DMV business partner and independent registration service. Service fees are charged in addition to applicable DMV fees.
How It Works
1
Submit the vehicle, registered-owner, lienholder, title, and payoff or release information.
2
We review the California title record, signatures, notarization, supporting documents, and fees.
3
Bring or mail required originals. We process eligible lienholder-change or release transactions.
What documents are needed to remove a lienholder?
A properly released California title or another DMV-accepted legal-owner release is generally required. The exact documents depend on the title record.
California Lienholder Change FAQs
Does DMV Form REG 166 need to be notarized?
Generally yes. The form identifies a limited insurance-company salvage exception.
Can REG 166 be used with a paperless title or a newer vehicle?
No. DMV states that REG 166 cannot be used for a paperless title or a vehicle that is two model years or newer; the title is required.
When will the updated California title arrive?
After DMV processes an eligible change, the new title is mailed to the address on record. Timing can vary.