“Ask George"
Expert Answers to Common DMV Questions

Do you have questions about general driving related requirements like registration or insurance? Are you unclear about laws and restrictions related to driving? The California Department of Motor Vehicles has answers. "Save Time, Go Online," at www.dmv.ca.gov . Now, readers can submit any DMV-related questions to askdmv@dmv.ca.gov !

Q: Sometimes when I'm driving at night I pass through intersections where the traffic signals are blinking yellow. What does this mean? What if a signal is blinking red?

A: You do not need to stop for a flashing yellow light; it is just warning you that you need to be careful. Slow down and be especially alert before entering the intersection. A flashing red light means stop. After stopping you may proceed when it is safe, but always observe the right of way rules. To read more about what different traffic signals mean, go to www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/pgs16thru17.htm .

Q: How do I change my last name on my car registration? Can I do this online or does it have to be done through the mail?

A: You can do both! To change or correct your name on your vehicle/vessel's DMV record you must: Submit your Certificate of Title with your correct name printed or typed in the "New Registered Owner" section. Complete the Name Statement on a Statement of Facts form (REG 256) indicating the reason for the change and sign the bottom. You can save time by filling out and printing the Statement of Facts form online at http://www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/reg/reg256.pdf . Once you have properly filled out the form, take it to your nearest DMV office in person, or mail it to: Department of Motor Vehicles, P.O. Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001. For more information on changing your name on your registration, please visit http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr17.htm .

Q: How do I reassign a license plate to another vehicle?

A: To reassign a license plate to another vehicle, complete a Special Interest License Plate Application online (REG 17) indicating that you want to reassign the plates to another vehicle. Once you have filled out the form, enclose the appropriate fees and either take them to your nearest DMV field office or mail them to: DMV, P.O. Box 932345, Sacramento, CA 94232-3450. To fill out and print out the REG 17 form online, please visit http://www.dmv.ca.gov/forms/reg/reg17.pdf.

"Save Time by Going Online" with the DMV at www.dmv.ca.gov. The DMV is a department under the Business, Transportation and Housing Agency. The DMV licenses drivers, maintains driving records, registers and tracks official ownership of vehicles and vessels, investigates auto and identity-related fraud, and licenses car dealers, driving schools, and traffic violator schools.