REG 256M Form – If you operate a commercial fleet registered under California’s International Registration Plan (IRP) and need to update your business name, the REG 256M Form (also known as MC 256M I) is the required document. This official California DMV form serves as a Statement of Facts Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change. It ensures the DMV’s records accurately reflect your fleet’s new name while maintaining compliance with apportioned registration rules.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what the REG 256M form is, who needs it, how to fill it out step by step, where to download the latest official PDF, and how to submit it correctly. All information comes directly from current California DMV sources as of 2026.
What Is the REG 256M Form?
The REG 256M Form – Statement of Facts Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change is a specialized DMV document designed exclusively for motor carrier fleets. It formally notifies the California DMV of a name change for an existing fleet account number.
Key details:
- Official title: Statement of Facts Motor Carrier Fleet Name Change (REG 256M)
- Alternate ID: MC 256M I
- Revision date: NEW 9/2010 (still the current version hosted by DMV)
- Purpose: Document a fleet name change, confirm whether ownership changed, and certify no (or specified) changes in fleet composition or operation.
It is not the same as the general REG 256 Statement of Facts or the MC 152 M Notice of Change used for standard Motor Carrier Permits (MCP). The REG 256M applies specifically to IRP-apportioned fleets.
Who Needs to File REG 256M?
You must complete and submit this form if:
- Your motor carrier fleet is registered under the IRP in California.
- You are making a change or correction to the business name on Schedule A (Carrier Information).
- The name change occurs during the current registration year or at the time of IRP renewal.
Common scenarios include:
- Legal name change due to merger, acquisition, or rebranding.
- Correction of a misspelled or outdated fleet name on DMV records.
- Updating records when the name change does not affect fleet ownership or operation.
Important: If your business entity type changes (e.g., sole proprietorship to LLC), you may need a new Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) instead of—or in addition to—this form.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the REG 256M Form?
The form is straightforward and fits on a single page. Here’s exactly how to complete it (based on the official PDF layout):
- Top Section – Fleet Identification
Enter:- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Make
- California License Plate Number
- Account Number
- License Year
- Carrier Name (current name)
- Section A – Statement of Facts for Carrier Fleet
- Carrier Address: Provide the current fleet address.
- Confirm: “There has been a name change for this account number.”
- Question 1: Does the name change also reflect a change of ownership? Check Yes or No.
- Question 2: Check one box:
- No change in the composition or operation of the fleet.
- OR A change in the composition or operation of the fleet was effective on [Month/Day/Year].
- If you checked the second option, explain the changes in the space provided.
- Section B – Certification and Signature
Read the indemnity and perjury statement carefully. You agree to hold the DMV and future purchasers harmless for any losses related to the fleet registration.
Sign and provide:- Company Name
- Daytime Telephone Number
- Date
- Authorized Signature (must be signed by an authorized representative)
The form must be signed under penalty of perjury. Unsigned or incomplete forms will be rejected.
Download the Official REG 256M PDF (Free & Current)
Direct official download (hosted by California DMV):
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2020/05/mc256m-1.pdf
This is the exact PDF linked on the DMV’s current forms page. No newer revision exists as of April 2026. The file is fillable in most PDF viewers.
Pro tip: Download directly from DMV.ca.gov to ensure you have the authentic, unaltered version.
How to Submit the Completed REG 256M Form?
Submit the REG 256M along with your IRP renewal or supplement application (including updated Schedule A/B – MC 2117 I).
Typical submission methods:
- Mail with your IRP packet to the DMV Registration Operations Division (address listed in the IRP handbook or your renewal instructions).
- Include it as part of any name-change documentation for apportioned fleets.
Note: For non-IRP Motor Carrier Permit (MCP) name changes, use the separate MC 152 M form instead.
Always keep a copy for your records. Processing times follow standard DMV IRP timelines—check the current IRP handbook for exact requirements.
Related DMV Forms You May Need
| Form | Purpose | When to Use with REG 256M |
|---|---|---|
| MC 2117 I (Schedule A/B) | Carrier data for IRP | Always – for name change on renewal/supplement |
| REG 256 | General Statement of Facts | Other miscellaneous issues |
| MC 152 M | Motor Carrier Permit Notice of Change | Standard MCP (non-IRP) name/address changes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the REG 256M form free?
Yes – the official PDF is free to download and use.
Can I submit this form online?
No. It must be printed, signed, and submitted with your IRP paperwork (electronic filing options are limited for IRP name changes).
What if the name change involves ownership transfer?
Answer “Yes” to Question 1 in Section A and provide any additional required ownership documents.
Is this form only for California-plated vehicles?
It applies to fleets with California IRP registration, even if vehicles operate interstate.
How do I know if I need a new MCP instead?
If your business entity structure changes, contact DMV Motor Carrier Services or the California Highway Patrol (CHP) for a new CA number.
Why Accurate Fleet Name Documentation Matters?
Failing to report a name change promptly can lead to registration issues, penalties, or problems during audits. The REG 256M protects both your fleet and the DMV by providing a clear, sworn statement of facts.
For the most up-to-date instructions, always visit the official California DMV IRP handbook or Motor Carrier Services pages.
Ready to update your fleet?
Download the official REG 256M PDF here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2020/05/mc256m-1.pdf
Need help with IRP renewals or fleet compliance? Refer to the full California DMV IRP resources for carriers.
This guide is based solely on official California DMV publications and forms. Requirements can change—verify details directly on dmv.ca.gov before submitting.