The driver registry name-change modification is the procedure that updates your personal data in the Department of Transit (MINGOB) system after your legal name has changed. It is mandatory to keep your DPI and your drivers license consistent with each other.

Quick summary: In-person procedure at the Department of Transit (MINGOB). Variable cost (fiscal stamps + license reissue). Estimated time: 5 to 15 business days. Requires DPI already updated at RENAP as a prior step. Not available online.

What Is the Driver Registry Name Change

The MINGOB driver registry holds your personal data tied to your drivers license: full name, DPI/CUI number, date of birth, blood type, and address. When any of those change legally — especially the name — you must request a modification so the registry matches your current DPI.

The most common reasons for a legal name change in Guatemala are:

  • Marriage or divorce if you choose to change last name
  • Paternity recognition filed after birth
  • Adoption that modifies the legal name
  • Court ruling ordering a name change
  • RENAP corrections that already updated the DPI but not the transit registry

Requirements

To modify your driver registry for a name change you need:

  • Valid DPI with the new name (original and clear photocopy)
  • Current drivers license (showing the old name)
  • Document proving the name change, depending on the cause:
    • Marriage certificate (if change is due to marriage)
    • Divorce ruling (if change is due to divorce)
    • Court ruling for name change
    • RENAP certification confirming the update
  • Police record and criminal record certificates, currently valid
  • Proof of fiscal stamps payment (varies by license category)
  • Application form from the Department of Transit (provided on site)

If the license is close to expiring, you will also need a vision test and the full renewal fee.

Steps

  1. Update your DPI first: if your DPI does not yet show the new name, start with the RENAP modification. The transit office will not proceed without it.
  2. Gather the documents listed above in original and photocopy.
  3. Visit the Department of Transit office of the Ministry of Interior closest to you. The main office in Guatemala City is at 6a Avenida y 13 calle, zona 1.
  4. Request the modification form for the driver registry and complete it on site.
  5. Pay the corresponding fiscal stamps at an authorized bank or stamp vendor inside the office.
  6. Submit the full file at the counter. Staff will verify your information against the RENAP system.
  7. Receive your tracking slip with the date you can pick up the modified license (5 to 15 business days).
  8. Pick up your new license with the updated name on the indicated date.

Cost & Time

ItemDetail
CostVariable — depends on stamps and reissue (estimated Q50-Q150)
Time5 to 15 business days
Validity of modificationUntil the current license expires
Available onlineNo
DiasporaPossible via notarized power of attorney through a consulate

The exact amount is confirmed on site the day of the procedure. If your license is near expiration, the cost increases because you must also pay the full renewal.

How to Apply

This procedure is not available online. You must appear in person at a MINGOB Department of Transit office.

Main office: 6a Avenida y 13 calle, zona 1, Guatemala City (Ministry of Interior building). Departmental capitals also have offices.

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Arrive before 11:00 AM to avoid losing your turn the same day.

If you live abroad, you can authorize a relative with a special power of attorney notarized at a Guatemalan consulate. The proxy submits the documents on your behalf. Your DPI must be updated first at RENAP — that step you can also handle through a consulate.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Not updating the DPI first: the procedure stops if your DPI still shows the old name. Always start at RENAP.
  • Incomplete supporting document: marriage certificate alone, without the RENAP certification confirming the change, is often rejected.
  • Expired background certificates: police and criminal records are valid for 6 months. Do not file with stale documents.
  • Wrong fiscal stamps: confirm the exact amount at the counter before buying stamps.