The California DMV publishes over 40 forms, and the one you need depends on what you're doing — renewing a license, registering a vehicle, changing your address, or reporting a name change
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) makes most forms available free on its website at dmv.ca.gov. You can read and print them, fill them out at home, and bring them to a DMV office or mail them in. Some forms are also available in person at any DMV location. The form you need is determined by your specific transaction — there is no single "California DMV form" that works for everything.
This guide explains how to find the right form, what information you'll need to complete it, and what happens after you submit it. We also cover the most common forms and what each one does.
Key Takeaways
- The California DMV website has a searchable form directory organized by transaction type — use it to find the exact form you need rather than guessing.
- Most forms can be downloaded, printed, and completed at home, then brought to a DMV office or mailed with supporting documents.
- Some transactions require multiple forms — for example, a vehicle registration change may need both a form and a bill of sale.
- The DMV accepts forms by mail, in person, or through its online services portal for certain transactions like address changes and license renewals.
- Scammers sometimes create fake DMV forms and post them on unofficial websites — always read forms directly from dmv.ca.gov.
How to find the form you need on the DMV website
Go to dmv.ca.gov and look for the "Forms" section in the main navigation. The DMV organizes forms by category: Driver License, Vehicle Registration, Address Changes, Name Changes, and so on. Click the category that matches your transaction, and you'll see a list of forms with brief descriptions of what each one is used for.
Each form listing includes a link to read the PDF, the form number (like DL 44 or REG 343), and instructions. Read the instructions before you fill out the form — they tell you which sections are required, what documents to bring, and whether you can submit by mail or must appear in person. If you're unsure which form applies to your situation, the DMV website also has a "Find a Form" search tool where you can type a keyword like "address change" or "duplicate license."
Do not use forms from third-party websites, even if they look official. Scammers sometimes host fake DMV forms designed to collect your personal information or charge you a fee for something that should be free. Always read directly from dmv.ca.gov.
Common California DMV forms and what they're used for
The forms you're most likely to encounter fall into a few categories. For driver's license transactions, form DL 44 is the process for a Driver License or Identification Card — this is what you fill out when you first get a license or renew one in person. Form DL 43 is the Driver License or Identification Card Renewal process, used when you renew by mail or online.
For vehicle registration, form REG 343 is the process for Title or Registration, used when you register a new vehicle or transfer ownership. Form REG 156 is the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, which you file when you sell a vehicle to protect yourself from liability for the new owner's violations. Form REG 14 is the process for Duplicate Registration Plates or Stickers, used if your plates are lost or damaged.
For address changes, form DL 43 (the renewal form) includes an option to update your address, or you can use form DL 44 if you're making other changes at the same time. For name changes, you'll need form DL 44 or DL 43 plus a certified copy of the court order or marriage certificate proving the name change.
What documents you need to bring with each form
The documents required depend on the form and the transaction. The form instructions always list what you need, but here are the most common requirements. For any driver's license or ID card process, you'll need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or foreign ID), proof of California residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number. If you're renewing, you may only need your current license.
For vehicle registration, you'll need the vehicle's title or a bill of sale if you're buying from a private party, proof of California residency, and proof of insurance. If you're transferring a title, you'll also need the signature of the previous owner on the back of the title or on a separate form.
For address changes, you'll need proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. For name changes, you'll need the certified court order or certified marriage certificate, plus your current license or ID card.
Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies, unless the form instructions specifically say photocopies are acceptable. The DMV website lists acceptable documents for each form.
How to submit your form — by mail, in person, or online
Most California DMV forms can be submitted in person at any DMV office. You fill out the form at home, gather your documents, and bring everything to your local DMV. You'll need to make an appointment — walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. Book your appointment on dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
Some forms can be mailed to the DMV. The form instructions tell you whether mail submission is allowed and which address to use — different forms go to different DMV offices. Mail your form with copies of your supporting documents. Keep a copy for your records. Processing times for mailed forms vary but typically take two to four weeks.
Certain transactions can be completed online through the DMV's online services portal. Address changes, license renewals, and some registration renewals can often be done this way without visiting an office. You'll need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to log in. Not all forms have an online option — check the form instructions to see if yours does.
Fees and what to expect after you submit
Most DMV transactions have a fee. License renewals cost between $35 and $65 depending on the type and length of renewal. Vehicle registration renewals vary by vehicle weight and type. Address changes and name changes on an existing license usually cost $10 to $15. The form instructions list the exact fee for your transaction. You can pay by cash, check, or card at an office, or by card if you're submitting online or by mail.
After you submit your form, the DMV will process it and send you a confirmation. If you submitted in person, you may receive your new license or registration on the spot or within a few days by mail. If you mailed the form, expect two to four weeks for processing. If you submitted online, you'll receive a confirmation email and your new document by mail within the timeframe listed on the confirmation.
If the DMV needs more information or documents, they will contact you by mail or phone. Keep your confirmation number and any receipts you receive — they prove you submitted your form and when.
Scam alert: Fake forms and unofficial websites
Scammers create fake DMV forms and post them on websites that look similar to dmv.ca.gov. They may charge you a fee to read the form, or the form itself may ask for your Social Security number, bank account information, or other sensitive data that the real DMV would never ask for on a form.
The real DMV never charges a fee to read forms. All forms on dmv.ca.gov are free. If a website is asking you to pay for a DMV form, it is not the official DMV website. Check the URL — the official site is dmv.ca.gov, not dmv-california.com or similar variations.
Never fill out a DMV form you found on an unofficial website. Always go directly to dmv.ca.gov, read the form yourself, and fill it out. If you're unsure whether a form is real, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 and ask.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a form from a previous year, or do I need the current version?
You should use the current version of the form. The DMV updates forms regularly to reflect changes in law or requirements. Using an outdated form may cause your submission to be rejected or delayed. Always read the form from dmv.ca.gov to may support you have the latest version.
What if I make a mistake on the form after I've submitted it?
If you submitted in person and noticed the mistake right away, ask the DMV staff member if you can correct it before they process it. If you submitted by mail and realize there's an error, contact the DMV when ready at 1-800-777-0133 and explain the mistake. They may ask you to resubmit the form or provide a corrected version.
Do I need to notarize my DMV form?
Most California DMV forms do not require notarization. The form instructions will clearly state if notarization is required — for example, some power-of-attorney forms do require it. If the form doesn't mention notarization, you don't need it. Do not pay for notarization unless the form specifically requires it.
Can someone else submit a form on my behalf?
For some transactions, yes. If you're renewing your license or registration by mail, you can have someone else mail the form for you. For in-person transactions, you usually must appear yourself, though some forms allow a representative with a power of attorney to act on your behalf. Check the form instructions to see if a representative can submit on your behalf.
Where do I mail my form if I'm submitting by mail?
The mailing address depends on the form and the type of transaction. The form instructions always include the correct mailing address. Do not mail forms to the DMV's main office unless the instructions say to — different forms go to different processing centers. Using the wrong address will delay your submission.