MC 256M I Form: Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change PDF

MC 256M I Form – The MC 256M I Form, officially titled Statement of Facts Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change (REG 256M), is an essential California DMV document used by motor carriers to report and update a fleet name change. This form ensures the DMV’s records accurately reflect the new business name for apportioned vehicle fleets, typically under the International Registration Plan (IRP).

California motor carriers must file this form whenever the registered fleet name changes—whether due to a business rebranding, legal name update, or correction—to maintain compliance with state registration requirements. The form is provided as a free, fillable PDF directly from the official California DMV website.

Why Use the MC 256M I Form for Motor Carrier Fleet Name Changes?

Failing to update your fleet name can lead to registration delays, cab card issues, or compliance problems during IRP renewals or supplement applications. The MC 256M I Form is specifically required when a fleet’s registrant name changes during the current registration year or at renewal.

It serves as a formal Statement of Facts confirming the name change and clarifies whether the update involves any change in ownership or fleet composition. This protects both the carrier and the DMV by documenting the update under penalty of perjury.

Who Needs to File the California DMV MC-256M-I Form?

Authorized representatives of motor carrier fleets operating in California should use the MC 256M I Form. It applies primarily to:

  • IRP-registered fleets (apportioned vehicles)
  • Carriers making name corrections on existing accounts
  • Businesses filing Schedule A/B supplement applications

If your fleet operates under a Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) and only needs a simple business name/address change, you may instead use Form MC 152 M. However, for fleet registration name updates tied to vehicle titles or IRP records, the MC 256M I is the correct document.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the MC 256M I Form

Filling out the MC-256M-I Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change PDF is straightforward. Follow these official steps:

  1. Enter Fleet Identification Details at the top: Provide VIN (if applicable), make, California license plate number, account number, license year, and current carrier name.
  2. Complete Section A — Statement of Facts for Carrier Fleet:
    • List the carrier address.
    • Confirm there has been a name change for this account number.
    • Indicate whether the name change reflects a change of ownership (Yes/No).
    • Check the appropriate box regarding fleet composition or operation changes and provide an explanation if needed (include effective date: Month/Day/Year).
  3. Complete Section B:
    • Enter the company name (new or corrected).
    • Provide daytime telephone number.
    • Date the form.
    • Have an authorized company representative sign it.
  4. Review the Certification: The signer certifies the information under penalty of perjury and agrees to indemnify the DMV and subsequent purchasers for any losses.

The form explicitly states: “I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.”

How to Download the Official MC 256M I Form PDF?

Get the most current version directly from the California DMV:

Direct Download Link: MC-256M-I Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change PDF

This is the official, up-to-date PDF (uploaded May 2025) and remains the standard form as of 2026. Always download from dmv.ca.gov to ensure you have the latest version.

Where to Submit the Completed Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change Form?

Submit the signed MC 256M I Form along with any required Schedule A/B or renewal documents:

  • Mail: Department of Motor Vehicles, Registration Operations Division, PO Box 932370 – MS H875, Sacramento, CA 94232-3700
  • In-person or overnight: Follow DMV motor carrier services guidelines

For IRP-related changes, pair it with the appropriate supplement application. No filing fee is listed on the form itself, but standard IRP processing fees may apply.

Key Requirements and Important Notices on the MC 256M I Form

  • The form must be signed by an authorized representative.
  • Clearly explain any ownership or operational changes.
  • Retain a copy for your records.
  • Use this form only for fleet name changes—not for full ownership transfers or new permit applications.

The DMV’s IRP Handbook confirms that name changes require both the MC 256M I and Schedule A/B when updating carrier information.

Frequently Asked Questions About MC 256M I Form

Is the MC 256M I Form the same as REG 256M?
Yes—REG 256M is the internal form number for the Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change Statement of Facts (MC 256M I).

Can I fill it out online?
The PDF is fillable on most devices, but it must be printed and signed by hand (wet signature required).

When is this form required?
Anytime the fleet registrant name changes, including during IRP renewal or mid-year corrections.

Is it free?
Yes—the downloadable PDF is free from the official DMV site.

Official California DMV Resources for Motor Carrier Fleet Services

For the latest information, visit these trusted DMV pages:

Always verify details on the official California DMV website, as motor carrier regulations can be updated. Use the MC 256M I Form promptly to keep your fleet registration compliant and avoid unnecessary delays.

Download the form now: MC-256M-I PDF

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