Adding a name to your RV’s certificate of title requires a relatively simple trip to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, though the exact requirements and fees vary from state to state. Whether you’re hitting the road with a new partner or planning for future adventures, understanding this process is crucial for RV owners.
Essential Information at a Glance
- Adding a name to an RV title is similar to completing a title transfer where the “seller” is the current owner and the “buyers” are the current owner and the person being added
- Some states allow you to add a new owner to your RV registration, while other states require joint owners to file vehicle registration separately
- You’ll need to alert your RV insurance provider of any changes to ensure proper coverage for all parties
Common Reasons for Adding Names to RV Titles
There are several common scenarios where adding a name to your RV title becomes necessary:
- Marriage or domestic partnership: Combining assets with your significant other
- Co-ownership arrangements: Sharing your RV with family members or travel partners
- Estate planning: Adding adult children to the title for inheritance purposes
- Business partnerships: Converting personal RV use to shared business use
- Full-time RV living: Adding a partner who will be living in the RV
- Financial sharing: Splitting costs and responsibilities of RV ownership
Let’s walk through the steps to make this process as smooth as your next camping trip.
Preparing Your Documentation
The name on an RV title establishes proof of ownership for the vehicle. Adding an additional name grants joint ownership of your home on wheels. To add a name to your RV title, you’ll first need to bring the original title to your local DMV office.
What to do: If you are the registered owner of the RV, locate your current title. If you can’t find it, you’ll need to contact your state DMV to request a replacement title.
Working with Lienholders
If you’re still paying off your RV loan, your lender will be listed on your title as a lienholder, meaning they have a financial stake in your RV.
To add a person to the title of a lienholder-owned RV: Contact the lienholder about your intention to add an additional person to the title.
The lienholder will need to apply for the change by providing a letter with the RV’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), stating their intent to add an additional person to the title.
Completing the Title Transfer Process
Adding a name to an RV title that you already own is similar to a title transfer. The main difference is that instead of completely transferring ownership to someone else, you’re sharing the ownership.
What to do:
- Sign your name to the back of the title on the seller line
- Add your name and the name of whoever is being added to the title to the buyer’s section
- Pay attention to “AND” vs “OR” designations:
- If the title says Person 1 AND Person 2: Both parties must sign for future title matters
- If the title says Person 1 OR Person 2: Either party can handle future title matters
In most states, you’ll need to bring your signed certificate of title to your local DMV with the following commonly required documents:
- Completed Application for Certificate of Title
- Odometer reading listed on the title or a bill of sale
- Payment for local title fees
Key Takeaway: Adding an additional name to an RV title is similar to transferring a title when selling an RV. You’re essentially “selling” the RV to yourself and that additional person, whether they’re a spouse, partner, or family member.
Updating Your RV Insurance Coverage
Adding a new name to your title means you’ll need to update your RV insurance policy. Your RV insurance cost may change when adding another driver, so it’s important to:
- Add the new driver to your RV insurance policy
- Provide the insurer with a copy of the new title for their records
- Review coverage options to ensure they meet both owners’ needs
Keep in mind: RV insurance quotes may vary after adding a new driver to your policy, depending on their driving history and other factors.
Registration Requirements
Some states allow RV owners to add an additional driver to the vehicle registration, while others require separate registrations for each driver.
What to expect: Check with your state’s DMV to understand how you and your joint RV owner should handle registration and associated fees.
Protecting Your Investment Together
Adding a name to your RV title is more than just paperwork—it’s about sharing the journey with someone special. As you embark on this new chapter of RV ownership, make sure your insurance coverage is as comprehensive as your travel plans.
Finding the best RV insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. Visit Happy Camper Insurance to explore our range of coverage options and get instant online RV insurance quotes tailored to your needs. Our team of experts specializes in RV insurance and can help you compare RV insurance costs to find the perfect coverage for both owners.
Whether you’re weekend warriors or full-time adventurers, we’ll help you secure the right protection at competitive RV insurance rates so you can focus on making memories on the open road.
Happy Camping!
