Updated April 2023: In the state of California, when you buy or sell a privately owned motor vehicle, the DMV must be informed of the change of ownership by a seller within 5 days and by a buyer within 10 days of the sale. The title, or pink slip as they like to call it in the Golden State, must then be fully transferred by the buyer within 30 days or penalties could be assessed. But gone are the days of visiting a tag agency or local DMV office, today you can transfer a title, register a car, even replace a lost title or registration, all online with DMV-licensed eTags. You could even use your smartphone to do it all.
Use eTags© to Quickly Complete Your DMV Service. Renewals, Title Transfers and More, All Online!
If you’ve inherited, donated, or received a vehicle as a gift, the process of transferring the title is similar to buying and selling a vehicle but differs in certain aspects. Similarly, if you are bringing in a vehicle from out-of-state, you will find that the fees and forms needed are generally the same, still with some differences.
Transferring Ownership of a Motor Vehicle
In order to complete a California title transfer for a motor vehicle that’s being bought or sold, you will need to follow the procedures listed below and have the proper forms ready:
- Complete a Notice of Release of Liability form (REG 138). This release of liability can also be done online. The NRL will protect the existing owner of the vehicle from civil or criminal liability involving the vehicle once the new owner begins to operate it. Since the title transfer process may happen days after the car is handed over to the new owner, this is an important form for every seller to complete.
- The California Certificate of Title must be signed by the buyer, seller, and if any exist(ed), a lien holder’s signature as well. If the Certification of Title is lost, then an Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title (REG 227) will be need to be completed by the seller and the buyer.
- Smog certification (unless the vehicle is exempt). New smog inspections are not required if the seller obtained one within the last 90 days or one or more of the following applies to the vehicle:
| Diesel or gas powered vehicles from(1975 or older) | Vehicles with two-cycle engine | Off highway vehicles (OHV) and golf carts |
| Diesel or natural gas powered vehicles(more than 14,001 lbs.) | Motorcycles and mopeds | Vehicles assigned Historical Vehicle license plates |
| Hybrid or electric powered vehicles | Trailers and special equipment vehicles | Cranes, cement mixers, street-sweepers, and forklifts |
- Odometer Mileage Reading
- For vehicles under 10 years old, the odometer mileage reading must be listed on the title and signed by both the seller the buyer. If you do not have the title or the title you have does not have a place or space for it, then you must fill out a Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262). This form is only available by visiting your local California DMV office or by calling 1-800-777-0133 and having one mailed to your residence. This form will also serve as the bill of sale.
- If the vehicle is more than 10 years old, an odometer disclosure is not required but it is recommended by the state.
- A Bill of Sale form (REG 135) is required. If you were required to use REG 262 to report the odometer mileage reading, this form serves as both the bill of sale and the odometer disclosure.
- The transfer fee of $15 must be paid as well as the use tax which varies based on the county/city of residence of the new owner. Additionally, the new owner must pay to have the vehicle registered and licensed in their name. The plate the previous owner held may be transferred if the previous owner so chooses.
Inheriting, Donating, and Gifting Vehicles
The process of transferring the title for reasons other than a purchase or sale, is basically the same as what is outlined above. You will have 30 days from the date of change of ownership to pay your transfer fees and submit the necessary documentation to the California DMV.
However, smog tests and usage taxes are not required if the vehicle is being transferred between qualifying family members. In cases where the vehicle is being gifted, donated, or inherited by someone other than a qualifying family member, a smog certification could be required if a smog test has not been done within the last 90 days or one is due. Qualifying family members who would be exempt from paying the usage tax and obtaining smog certification upon transfer include:
| Parents/Children | Grandparents/Grandchildren |
| Spouses/Domestic Partners | Siblings |
The list above also includes step, half, and adopted family members. However, family members who are not included in this list will need to complete a California title transfer in accordance to the process outlined for those buying or selling a vehicle. In the case of a transfer where the owner of the vehicle is deceased, the REG 262 form is needed which must be picked up a local DMV office or a person must call 1-800-777-0133 to request that one be mailed to them. Additionally, transfers between family members will require a Statement of Facts form (REG 256) be filled out.
Remove a Vehicle Lien
Before you can transfer the title on a vehicle being sold, you need to have any liens that may exist lifted. Buyer Beware!; Any liens that exist on a vehicle once you have transferred it to your name, become your responsibility. A lien may exist on a vehicle for the following reasons:
- You financed your vehicle and still owe money to the dealer or financial institution whom you borrowed the money from. Until the debt is complete paid, this entity is the legal owner of the vehicle. Once all the payments have been made, you will receive a signed vehicle title in the mail from the lienholder. Once you receive this document, send it along with a $15 transfer fee to your local DMV within 30 days. You will then receive an updated title in the mail with your name as the owner and this type of lien removed
- If a company has repaired, towed, stored, or furnished supplies or materials for your vehicle and they have not been paid for the services and/or products provided, they may issue a lien against your vehicle. In order to remove the lien, a satisfactory financial agreement must be reached with the lien holder and they must sign the title with notarization for it to be transferred to a new owner.
Vehicles Brought Into California from another State
When you buy a vehicle from out of state or you move to California and bring your vehicle with you, you will need:
- A Title or Registration Application Form (REG 343) signed by all owners registered on the vehicle.
- If the registered owner of the vehicle is changing (in the case of buying a vehicle from out of state), you’ll need the out-of-state title
- The last issued out-of0state registration or the most recent renewal notice sent for the current year showing the vehicle owner’s names and the registration expiration date
- A completed Vehicle Verification form (REG 31) filled out band signed by a DMV employee (no charge), a law enforcement officer, or a private and licensed vehicle verifier
- A smog test and certification from an approved California smog station for gasoline powered-vehicles from 1976 or newer (excluding motorcycles), diesel powered vehicles from 1998 or newer under 14,0001 lbs., and natural gas or propane powered vehicles under 14,001 lbs
- You will be required to hand in your out-of-state license plate unless the plate is expired, the state which it is licensed in requires that you return it, or if it will be an inter-state registered vehicle
- Payment of the appropriate fees to transfer the title and license and register the vehicle will be required
If it is a trailer and in addition to what is listed above, you will need the Statement of Facts form (REG 256) and, to request a new title for the trailer, a PTI Application (REG 4017).
Do you need to transfer your vehicle title in the state of California?
California drivers can now seamlessly transfer vehicle titles online with our title transfer tool.
734 comments
Hi I have a question. So about a month ago I bought a park model travel trailer from someone on Craigslist and received the title for it but didn’t realize until after I had already bought it that the title has someone else’s name listed as the owner then who I purchased it from. It also has someone listed on the back of the title as a lienholder. How do I go about getting this title transfered into my name with these issues? I’m not sure what to do or how I can fix this problem. Please any information would be much appreciated! Thanks!
We would recommend that you obtain a bill of sale from the person that you purchased the trailer from. This would show DMV that you purchased it directly from this individual. Unfortunately we would need to see the title to see if there is anything else you would need. We could assist you with this using our transfer services through https://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blogquestion
The signed title document and any bill of sales providing a chain of ownership are required to complete the transfer. The new owner must sign the back of the title section 9a/9B and complete a Reg 101 statement to record ownership. If a lien holder is present a notarized lien satisfied will be required to remove the lien.
I want to add my wife to my car title in CA. DMV CA currently does not offer rush title processing anymore.
Please tell me how long does it take for me to get the new title if I send documents to DMV by myself?
How long does it take if I use itags service?
Thanks!
DMV is currently taking 90 days to process transfers by mail. Etags usually takes 5-7 business days depending on how quickly the title arrives through the USPS. https://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blog%20question
I am moving to Ny and hoping to bring a Leased car from Honda but my mother is the only name under the lease and registration.What do I need to do in order to bring this car to Ny with me?
You will need to request a power of attorney from Honda to complete the title transfer paperwork in CA. Honda will determine who the power of attorney will be. Please contact Honda.
I bought a car from Utah and I live in California, I understand everything I need to do to transfer the title in my name and register the vehicle. My question is how long will it take for me to get the California title. I have someone interested in buying the vehicle and I don’t want to lose out on a sale. I was considering going to one of the express DMV, or licensed DMV service centers.
DMV takes about 2 to 4 weeks typically.
Hi, im military leaving NC and moving to CA but I am buying a truck in Texas during my move. This truck will have Texas tags on it that will need to be transferred to me when I get to CA. How do I know if this is worth doing since I don’t know if it will pass the smog test? And if I want to sell an out of state vehicle in CA since I also have a NC car, can I sell it in CA with the NC tags on it or will it have to be registered in CA first?
Registering a commercial pick up truck in CA will require a smog, vin verification and a weight certificate. If a vehicle is unable to pass smog you will need to repair the vehicle so that it meets CA emissions standards. You can sell a vehicle with out of state plates to a buyer in CA as long as the buyer accepts the responsibility of completing the requirements to have it registered in CA.
I am the main lessee on my car, with my dad as a co-lessee (we are leasing from Toyota). We bought the car in CT, where the car is currently registered. The car is only registered under my dad’s name.
I just moved to CA and when I went to the DMV to register the car, they wouldn’t let me because my name was not on the original registration (even though I had the leasing documents to show I was a lessee).
What do I do?
You will need to contact the leasing company so that your name is added to the registration.
Hello. My mother passed away and I am the executor of the trust/will in CA. I am trying to sell her car to her tenants who also live in CA. What do I do? Can I do it online?
You would need the title, death certificate, and any paperwork showing you are the executor. You can transfer title at https://www.etags.com/app/ca
I am living in Kansas, I bought the car from Infinity of Marine in California, till now I have not received a title and paperwork from dealer. Dealer said they are waiting California DMV release the title. I just wonder normally how long does it take for DMV to release the paperwork? So I can register in Kansas.
eTags doesn’t operate in Kansas, but this article may help: https://www.ksrevenue.org/dovtitlenew.html
You can also contact the DMV directly for more details.
I moved to California in 2012 from Kentucky, In 2012, I registered my car in California and received CA licence plates and a CA ID. I did not have my Kentucky car title with me on the day that I registered my car in California, so I have never surrendered my Kentucky title.
I am now in the process of selling my and have a hard copy of my Kentucky car title. Can I sell my car using the Kentucky title to transfer ownership? Or sense my car is registered in California am I required to surrender my Kentucky title to the California DMV and wait until I have a California title for my car to transfer ownership to the buyer?
I have somebody who wants to buy my car now and have the Kentucky title ready for them to sign.
You can use your KY title signed by buyer and seller along with a Valid CA registration card to sell your golden rod non transferable title in CA.
I am a Colorado Dealer and as a dealer I need to be able to convey a California title to the new buyer. How do i endorse the title, or is there another form that must accompany the title
We are not licensed to process dealer transactions. Please contact DMV for support.
My California Owned Jeep is for sale, and a buyer is coming from AZ to buy. My tags are due in 3 months. Would I be required to do smog check, in order for the transfer to go through? Are there any special conditions I need to know, in order for smooth transfer of ownership?
If you sell a vehicle before the registration expiration, you are not obligated to pay the new registration. A smog is only required if a vehicle is registered in CA. The new owners need to contact AZ DMV for information on how to complete a transfer in that state. We recommend submitting a release of liability to the state of CA DMV.
I bought a travel trailer 2 months ago and then lost my part of the pink slip that I was supposed to send in to register it in my name. I have given up being able to find it. But I cannot find any info on DMV about how to procede. How do I complete a new registration without it? I know that the previous owners did their part and sent in their half with release of liability.
You will need get a Bill of sale from the seller and complete a duplicate title application reg 227. If you are unable to obtain a Bill of sale please contact DMV for transfer information.
I’m trying to understand the sales tax implications of a title transfer to my daughter who is going to school in CA but her permanent residence is in another state. If I gift her the car from this other state, and we do a title transfer, will she owe CA use tax? Is there a period of time for when I purchased it that would count towards her use tax?
In CA you will not pay taxes on a family transfer between parent and child use reg 256 statement of facts.. If you are titling the vehicle in another state you will need to contact the titling state for tax information.
My car is titled in New Jersey, I moved to Texas and never had title updated, now I’m gifting the car to my daughter in California. Which DMV do I file the NRL with and what other potential problems I should be aware of.
The release of liability should be filed in the state the vehicle is currently registered in.
Hello!
My son is purchasing a car from a private seller that was allegedly Purchased cash/paid at the dealer in July. The seller now has to sell it, because he’s moving out of state. The seller is waiting for registration and the title to come in. Our bank needs the title to complete the loan process. Would it be easier and quicker for us to process a title transfer through you guys? What should we do?
A title is required to transfer a vehicle. You will need to wait until the Dealer has completed the original transfer before another transfer can occur. We will not be able to help expedite this process.
I bought a car with duplicate title but no bill of sale what do I do if I can’t get a hold of previous owner to sign bill of sale
A bill of sale is not required if you have the title and the sale price written on the title itself. You can place an order to transfer the title by visiting http://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blogquestion
Does a DMV car inspection is required? A family member is bringing a car that was bought in Alabama. And she was told she needs to bring the car to a CA DMV to get inspected there. She already got the smog check done.
A vehicle being registered in CA from another state requires a Vin verification from a licensed verifier. The DMV is approved to do verifications.
So a family friend gifted a car to me, and I want to sell it now because I need the money. I have only transfer papers, no title or pink slip. Just so I’m clear, I need to register the car in my name first in order to receive the title, and then I can sell the car? How long does it take to get a copy of the slip?
You can sell the vehicle without first registering it, if you can find a buyer.The buyer will need the original bill of sale you received from the seller to you. You will then need to create a bill of sale from you to the new owner. This is classified as a double transfer. The new owner will also need to complete a duplicate title application form reg 227 and submit it with the 2 bill of sale documents.
Hi there,
does the release of liability name have to be the one registering car or can it be the co owner on the title? I was gifted a car but do not have a drivers license and the co owner will help me get to A and B in the meantime. Thanks in advance.
The release of liability is for the seller to submit only. It doesn’t matter to the buyer who the seller puts on the release. The Buyer is required to submit the title and post fees within 30 days of purchase. If you are over 18 it is not required to have a drivers license to own a vehicle, if you are under 18 and without a license you must have an adult as a co owner.
The T.rust is going to gift me the car or I will possible inherit the car (depending on the health of the owner).. The car is in CA and I live in AZ. The car owner is not in charge of financial decisions. What is the best way to do this and avoid the most taxes and fees? Gift or inherit?
A trust can gift you a vehicle using a statement of facts for use tax exemption. The same form can be used for an inheritance use tax exemption. The box you check on the REG 256 depends on if the owner is alive or not.
I purchased a teardrop trailer that originally was registered as a PTI by the first owner and through the dealership where they purchased it. It appears the second owner somehow changed it to a regular vehicle registration. I would like it to be registered as a PTI, since it meets all the requirements and should have stayed as such. How do I go about changing the registration back?
You will need to take the trailer to a DMV for a vin verification so that they can determine if it qualifies. You will also need your title. The title must be surrendered so that it can be reprinted to reflect the change of body type
Hello, I have sold my car to a private buyer. It was a family friend and because I trusted this, I did not file a notice of release of liability. A year later, I find out the buyer did not register the car under their name and got towed away for expired registration. Since it is still under my name the tow company came after me. They said, I should go to dmv and change the title to junk it and the tow company would charge me $1k. I went to dmv and they said to fill out the nrl. Although I told them my situation, they said by signing the nrl I will not be liable even though I am a year late in filing. So I did and now the tow company has put me into collections and I had to hire a lawyer to halt the harassment. My question is, although I filed the nrl a year late, am I still liable?
You are required by Law to notify DMV if you sell or transfer your vehicle to another party, you must submit a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form within 5 calendar days from the date you sell or transfer the title to another owner. Keep a copy for your records. So technically yes you are liable.
Why would dmv tell me to fill out the ntrl although they knew I was a year late? I even called dmv 5 more times and explained I am a year late and still told me the ntrl would protect me. I just don’t understand.
If the NTLR is the Notice of Release of Liability, you would only do that if you sold the vehicle. The purpose of completing an NTLR is to remove yourself from any liability associated with that car if the buyer/new owner fails to complete the transfer with the DMV. If you still own the vehicle and need to renew the registration, you would pay the past due registration fees and the current year’s fee. Visit
http://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blogquestion to place an order to renew the registration and, most times, you will see a loan payment option to pay the registration fees over time along with payment by any major credit card.
I have 2 questions. The first is I bought a car during March and on the day that the DMV extended the time required to transfer the car since they closed all the DMV during covid. So I did it online, payed the fees, and sent the title by regular mail as they requested. However, it’s been a month and my status on the virtual website says ‘awaiting original documents’. So first question is Do you know how long they usually take when sending by mail? I’m kinda worried the title got lost. My second question is, is it ok to drive my car while I wait for registration and the new title? I’m gonna be heading to LA for business and wanted to know if it’s ok?
Hello, Unfortunately eTags is not aware of DMV wait times as we are not affiliated with DMV. The grace period extended for COVID has expired as of 05/31/2020. If you do not have proof of registration or a sticker then you can be cited.
Is a dealer allowed to backdate registration? I purchased on June 20 2019 and the registration was effective, in my name, dated more than two months prior to actual purchase.
Also, can I retroactively ask for a safety inspection certification?
We’re not familiar with dealer capabilities. You would need to contact the dealer to ask them questions regarding your transfer. In CA safety inspections are not required. CA only requires a SMOG certification and the results are on the CA BAR website.
20 years ago I brought with me 2 incomplete motorcycles when I moved to CA from Australia; there was no US Customs paperwork. Those bikes have never been completed and never been titled in the US. I don’t have any proof of ownership, just some circumstantial evidence that I brought them from Australia. If I wanted to get titles is it going to be a nightmare?
It will be difficult to register these. Contact your local CHP office for assistance.That’s the California Highway Patrol. They’ll most likely inspect these vehicles and will provide a new VIN number.
I am purchasing an out-of-state vehicle titled to a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Beside the standard out-of-state transfer forms/title/current registration/etc, what additional forms should I obtain from the LLC to submit to the CA DMV?
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2020/06/htvr9.pdf
I bought a boat in Fl. that doesn’t meet Ca. smog requirements. I just found this out, but as I live in Ca. and now own the boat, how can I get it registered in Ca.?
Since this is an out of state boat, it’s best to contact to DMV in CA for details.
I am a private seller in California. I am selling my vehicle to a private buyer under our own contracted payment plan agreement. It is registered (in my name still), but she has taken possession of the vehicle, however I’m not planing on changing legal ownership of it until she has paid for the vehicle in full. But I also don’t want to be responsible for anything while she’s operating it. What do I need to do to legally notify Dmv that I am still the owner until she has paid in full (contracted 3 months), but release all liability of it to her in the meantime? Thank you
The DMV requires a title transfer take place within 30 days to avoid penalties. You can add yourself on as the lien holder. The title with new registered owner will be sent to the lien holder. You can also turn in a release of liability document to DMV showing you have sold the vehicle.
I just paid to have my motorhome purchase transferred to my name from a private sale. Do I now have to pay to transfer the registration to my name or is that included in a title transfer?
A title transfer is the same thing as transferring the registration. A registration card is provided upon completion of the transfer and a title arrived from DMV 2-4 weeks later.
I moved to Colorado from California during the pandemic when everything was shut down, so I couldn’t register my car in Colorado. I was going to donate the car, however a family member in NJ needs a car so I was going to give that person my car. However, how do I do this? The car is still registered in California so the title is at the CA DMV. Do I need to register the car in Colorado first and then transfer the title or can I get a duplicate title? I really don’t want to register a car I am selling.
Hey there, we don’t operate in NJ. However, we can tell you that tile transfers are about ownership changes and registration is about being able to legally drive the car on the road. It’s best to contact the NJ DMV since it’s where you or other person need to be able to drive the car. This webpage may be able to help. https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/online-services.html
I bought a truck from a guy who bought it from a tow company. Which tow co had a lien ,guy I got it from did nothing with paper work to my knowledge cause he handed it all to me with Bill of sale I have a smog an inspection how do I go about paying for all this online
An online transfer is not available for a lien sale. You will be required to submit all documents to a DMV field office to complete this transfer request.
I have been attending school in California while driving a car registered in Texas to my parents. I have since graduated and will need to become a California resident since I am no longer in school. The title of the car is not in my name so I cannot easily transfer the registration to California. Am I allowed to keep it registered in Texas since the owners are Texas residents and drive it with their permission while in California even if I’m a California resident?
we can’t legally advise you on this question Please contact your local CHP office for more information.
We moved from AZ to CA. Since living in CA, we paid of our car, and now have an AZ Title. Our CA registration says, “No Title Issued / Vehicle Not Transferable”. We are planning to sell this car (likely via dealership trade-in). Do we need to get it re-titled to CA, or are we ok as is? Thanks!
Vehicle not transferable means that an out of state title was never surrendered to CA. You are not required to obtain a CA title if you have the original out of state title. You may need to confer with the dealership, they might require you to surrender the AZ title and get a CA title.
I am transferring a CA title for a vehicle I inherited from my Dad. I live in Nevada. Do the documents for CA DMV need to be notarized in CA or can I have them notarized where I live in NV?
We don’t operate in NV, it’s best to contact the DMV there. This article may help https://dmvnv.com/title.htm
Hello- what would I need if I am a New York Resident and am purchasing a vehicle in california and plan to drive the car back? It is a private, non-dealer sale. I am not sure which state I would need to obtain a temporary “tag”/Registration/permit from? Thank you.
CA DMV offers a one way trip permit that can be purchased at a DMV office only. The permit would need to purchased in whatever state you purchase the vehicle so that you legally drive it across country.
Hello-i purchased a car from a dealer in Florida-took over a month to get it to California-we have the title and the transfer document but the car was transferred between dealers for quite some time and was last registered in Texas. We have been working on getting it pass smog but the sensors that we had replaced need to reset by being driven-so we are well over our 30 day time limit and have a party interested in purchasing the car that lives in Oregon. Is it possible to transfer title to him without it being registered to us? Appreciate any help you can give us as this has been very frustrating
You will not be able to complete a title transfer in CA without a completed smog. If the new owner lives in OR they will need to contact their local DMV and provide any paperwork you have to see if OR will allow the title transfer.
I lived in California and purchased a vehicle with an auto lender there. Tagged it, drive it. Then I moved to another state. My auto lender sold my loan to another loan company and then my tags neared expiration. I cannot get the documents needed from the new lender that I need to get tags in the state where I now reside. Actually, I cannot even get anyone to answer my calls!
I have now lost my job over being unable to drive because my tags are now expired. I’ve spent three months trying to get this sorted out and am nowhere but home..
Help!!
In this case it would be best to contact your lender or an attorney.
I would like to transfer Title from me to my son, both in California. Your link to “Transfer Now” (https://www.etags.com/app/ca/transfer/lp) does not work … The link says, “An Error Was Encountered
Unable to load the requested file: app/ca/title_transfer/lp.php”. Is eTags no longer providing Transfers of Titles?
Pls visit http://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blog%20question and choose title transfer.
I I’m getting a car as a gift from family member, I want to move car and register in different state, can I get some temporary registration or something here in CA so I can move this car out of state? How long does it take and for how long can I get it for( week or two would do it)
This CA DMV website should be able to help
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/license-plates-decals-and-placards/temporary-operating-permits/
My daughter has a vehicle financed in her name, my other daughter just received a loan to purchase the vehicle from her. Can we do the transfer as a family transfer or is it classified as a private party sale, where we need to pay the higher fees and taxes for California?
A family transfer between siblings is only valid if both siblings are under 18. You may have the option of a gift transfer if you are comfortable signing under penalty of perjury. They will exempt from a smog a siblings. Use the REG 256 statement of facts form.
Purchased a car in 2011 in California and moved to Washington state where it was re-registered in 2015. The car was paid off in 2018. That’s the data, here’s the problem. My car registration still lists the bank as the legal owner even though it was paid off. The bank sent all information to California about the car being paid off, not to Washington State. And because both states are electronic I was never sent a clean title I own the vehicle. Do I need to fly to California to clear this all up to have a lien removed from CA records and get a title in CA so that I can in turn do the same in Washington?
Yes you would need to get a Lien Satisfied from the bank, and fill out a Reg 227 form. You would need to contact the California DMV and send them the information. The California DMV will charge $22.00 for a duplicate title, plus $15.00 to take the Lien off the vehicle. Have a nice day!
A third party wants to buy out my lease. The lease is financed with US Bank. What are the steps that need to be taken?
Please consult US BANK in regards to a lease buyout. The bank will provide the title and any other documents required for your transfer.
I bought a trailer from a private party who didn’t have a copy of the title. I applied online and the DMV says there is a $7 transfer fee,$22 PTI title fee and $698 for taxes. How can the taxes be so much?
Use tax is based on the your local tax rate for the county that you live in. The Purchase price determines the use tax.
I recently moved from Oregon to California. My vehicle is still financed, through Toyota Financial Services. Since I don’t have the title what steps do I need to take to register it?
This type of transaction is referred as a Golden Rod transfer. Your vehicle will be considered non transferable until the title is surrendered. You will need the most current out of state registration and the DMV has provided a checklist for the other requirements on their website. https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/how-to-9-register-a-vehicle-from-out-of-state-nonresident-vehicle/
Hello, I gave my brother a truck December of 2019, he drove it to T.J Mex where unfortunately he past away in January the truck stayed down there ,we had to deal with bring him back to the states and then deal with the funeral by them the tags had already expire and I hadn’t chance to change the name so technically is still under my name, then COVID-19 hit everything was a panic motion everything order to be close and now I try to have the truck removed from my name , I dont have the truck the penalty im sure are adding up how can I resolved this issue with out having to pay any penalty ?
The DMV recommends you complete a release of liability document to prove you have sold or no longer own a vehicle. This form is available on CA.DMV.GOV or can be submitted digitally on that website.
Hi, DMV finally issued my Duplicate of title, but they say that it will take 21 days to get my title. The problem is I have to leave the country forever in AUG 6th and I need to export my car so I really need my title ASAP. Is there anyway that I can get my title before I leave so I can export my car?
No, once a title is issued it can’t be replaced for 30days. You will need to wait for the title to arrive.
I was gifted a car July 2019 from Oregon
Health reasons and Covid am just now trying to transfer and register here in ca, will there be penalties for not registering sooner
The DMV allows 30 days to transfer a vehicle without assessing a penalty. If the vehicle was gifted the penalty is $15 and and registration and late fees will be due upon title transfer.
I am a WA State resident currently in CA. I am looking to buy a used car either in CA or WA State for use in WA State. Assuming they are the same price/mileage/etc. would it be cheaper title/registration-wise to look for a used car in CA and drive it up, or to should i buy it in WA State? I would be needing it for use in WA 2-4 weeks from now. Many thanks
Since you’ll be using the car in WA, that’s considered your “destination”, so you’d have to find out from the WA DMV what those fees are, bc eTags doesn’t operate in WA. All states have different fees. these articles should help: https://www.dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/buyingacar.html
https://www.dol.wa.gov/vehicleregistration/feestaxes.html
I bought a camper trailer with California plates/title. I am trying to transfer the title but I have a NC dirver’s license. Is this something I can do? Also, if I’m not planning on towing it around (going to be used as a home office) do I need to register it?
NC driver license is ok to use. Camper trailers do need registration.
There are permanent trailers that have $10 fee and there are NO FEE trailers, it all depends.
I bought a stock horse trailer from offer up licensed in Arkansas I have the title…but I can’t find any informtion on how to register it in California, transfer a title for a utility trailer, can i do it on ETags?
this article may help https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/how-to-9-register-a-vehicle-from-out-of-state-nonresident-vehicle/
My father passed away and no probate. I’m inheriting 4 quads and trailer, all CA titles. But I live in Texas. So do I use form reg 5 and have CA title with my Texas address, then after receive new CA title in mail change to Texas titles.
That is correct. Transfers must be done in CA with new owner and you can have them mailed wherever you like.
I purchased a vehicle that passed smog within 90 Dayan of the sale but shortly after damaged the vehicle to the point where it did not run. Never did the title change, eventually went to do it and now it’s required to pass smog. The car has a blown motor and I have no intention of fixing it in a timely manner. Is there anyway to still get it registered in my name without having to get it to pass smog due to the damages?
Usually, the smog is good for 90 days. you can try to see if the agency will take the smog ….if the system allows it, they will issue reg card but if the DMV is asking to complete again they will have to clear the smog
Hello everyone I bought a truck from a private seller and totally forgot to ask him about the smog tried to register the truck went to a smog station and they told me I had to go to a ref station? What can I do is this a big problem never had this issues before
A smog is required to complete a title transfer. If the SMOG station is referring you to a Referee station then you will need to follow with the SMOG referee. You can contact them (800) 622-7733
I’m in California. I have a boat in my possession that I’ve stored for 11 years. It was repossessed by bank. No one has paid for the boat storage or come to claim boat from bank. How do I get title on boat so I can recover storage costs? How much storage can I receive? Do I need to sue bank for 11 years of storage charges?
It’s best for you to contact your local DMV. This FAQ might help https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/new-registration/register-your-boat-vessel/
I’m in California, I had gifted my older vehicle to my granddaughter last month, and just recently, (a couple of hours ago), completed an online, virtual application, for transfer of title along with a request for a lost, duplicate pink slip, of which I had lost several months ago. I would like to know if I can pay the current registration fees online rather than paying it by personal check, via mail, as a dmv clerk (via a phone conversation), suggested to my granddaughter, but wouldn’t that hold up the transfer of title process? Can i pay the registration today online…it is due July 14th, 2020, though I already applied for the transfer of title and duplicate pink slip by virtual application just today.
Hey there, we’re not sure if you used eTags services or with another company. Pls let us know so we can respond accordingly.
Hello, I moved to California from Georgia in 2019. My car was originally bought, registered and titled in Georgia, however, upon my arrival in California, I went to DMV, completed registration paperwork, paid enormous fees, had smog test, VIN verification and got California plates. Car is now an official California vehicle. The car was financed by a credit union; I recently paid off note to credit union and am waiting for lien release letter. When I talked to credit union employee about payoff, she mentioned that title was still with Georgia and they would have to release same, I guess to California. Does this sound correct? Why would Georgia have anything to do with this process? Car is registered and titled in California. Why wouldn’t the credit union hold title as lien holder? This is all very confusing.
If the car was financed then most likely the vehicle did not receive a CA title(it would have been mailed to you) This is considered a Non Transferable Goldenrod title. As long as the vehicle was registered in CA you can surrender the out of state title to CA once received. If the finance company only gives you a lien release you will then need to submit for a GA title and once received surrender to CA. You will then receive a CA title.
I have recently bought a car from a private owner. I paid the registration and mailed it in. I also have the car insured. Am I allowed to drive it without the actual registration papers ?
If you’ve registered with etags you can download your digital copy for temporary use until you get papers in mail.
I am selling my car, i put it on non op because i wasn’t using it at the time but somebody reached out and wants to buy it. Nothing wrong with the car just put it in non op. 1st question, the registration expires 8/10/2020, so im assuming the non op starts on 8/11/2020, because according to CA DMV it says for the registration period. 2nd question, During non op, do i need to smog it before selling it to the new owner? Thanks.
The NON OP will remain on file from the expiration date until as long as you want in NON OP. The seller is responsible for the smog. If you and the buyer make other arrangements you will need to get them in writing. The new owner may choose to keep the vehicle in NON OP and simply just change title.
How do I keep a vehicle in NonOp. I just bought a vehicle that is currently in NonOp and not running and won’t pass smog for some time while repairs are being made.
This article may help: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/vehicle-registration-renewal/file-for-planned-non-operation/
Hi! I recently brought my car down from WA and I’m trying to sell it. The title, registration, and plates are all still WA. If I sell it privately is it on the buyer to register in CA or do I need to register it before I sell? I’m a little confused on that.
It sounds like I will be responsible for the smog test but I think registering the vehicle to CA is on them? Help!
The new owner will be responsible for paying use tax and registration fees if they choose to be the owners in CA. The new owners will also handle all requirements to register in CA.
Can I fly out from Texas to California, buy a California car with a lien sale title and use that to put it in my name in Texas?
Consult with TX DMV on documentation needed to transfer an out of state lien sale
Wanting to buy Restored Salvage title from AZ and register here in CA. Would this title status of AZ Restored Salvage transfer automatically to CA Rebuilt Salvage, or even clean title ? Or would I need to do a new salvage->rebuilt inspection by CA DMV?
Hey there, etags doesnt handle salvaged titles. It’s best to contact your local DMV for answers.
I bought a motorcycle in California that had a lien on it I watched him pay it off and we did a bill of sale. He said the dmv will mail him a title in 3-6 week’s then he’ll sign it and send it to me. I have a dmv bill of sale and he has done the release of transfer on the dmv website. Is there any way I can register it with what I have? Or do I need to wait till he sends the title.
If it has been over 30 days since the title request you can now submit a duplicate title application with the Bill of Sale he provided you.
I sold a motorcycle that I just paid off a week ago. I sold it only with the bill of sale because I’m still waiting on the pink slip to come in the mail, will I still get the title sent to me if I fill out a release of liability form?
yes
Had a car then it had issues in 2002 and was sent from ca to family in wa state. Since Lost the title, The car doesn’t run and is in wa , someone is buying it up their, how do i or they go about reg/transfer ect? Is this done in wa state with the title transfer/bill of sale forms from ca so he can get it transferred or does he just use the forms up in wa at their dmv to get a title and i just let ca dmv know i sold and release title forms? I know the car its not going to be in ca anymore as it hasnt been from 2002?
Hello, the transfer would take place in WA state through their local DMV. Every State’s DMV is different in regards to what they require so I would just make the buyer has the bill of sale/transfer forms. For you I would make sure you complete a Release of Liability through the CA DMV website. It doesn’t take it out of your name, however it protects you from any liability with the vehicle until the transfer is completed.
the transfer would take place in WA state through their local DMV. Every State’s DMV is different in regards to what they require so I would just make the buyer has the bill of sale/transfer forms. For you I would make sure you complete a Release of Liability through the CA DMV website. It doesn’t take it out of your name, however it protects you from any liability with the vehicle until the transfer is completed. Have a nice day
I am buying the motorcycle which registered in Nevada,clean title. But seems like the registration tag hasn’t been paid for a while and the owner says he doesn’t know how much it would cost. So if I buy the motorcycle and transferred to California title, would I still need to pay for the penalty fee when I register it with my name?
If you want to transfer it into California, you would not need to pay penalty registration for Nevada. Unfortunately we do not offer the out of state transfer through our website for California, only regular transfers.
I’m buying a 2013 Subaru BRZ from a good friend. We agreed on the sale back in April, but now it’s June and he’s still waiting for his registration, so we can finalize the sale. He said DMV is not contacting back re: the registration he hasn’t received. Is there a way for us to proceed forward? Maybe get the registration renewal tag when I bring the pink slip to DMV? Thank you in advance for your help.
You don’t need the registration to move forward with the title transfer. We do offer transfer services through our website which would include the new registration if it is past due or coming up. The biggest thing is that you want to start the transfer process as soon as possible so you don’t accrue any late fees. You can go to etags.com/app/ca
I moved to CA from Nevada last year and changed the registration on my vehicle to CA. I did the in-person VIN check, etc. I still have a Nevada title. Was this supposed to be automatically updated, or do I need to change this? The forms linked to this article are broken; if I need forms, where do I find them?
Q1 In order to get a CA title the out of state title must be surrendered to CA DMV.
Can a tow company lein sale a vehicle without going through DMV? My husbands van was stolen, towed by a tow company, the tow company never reported the van as having been towed, they then sent a notice that it was going to be lein saled, then they sold it to someone else. All this happened while we were stuck out of the country because of corona. The insurance company agreed to pay him the full market value of the vehicle and it was looking like a done deal, but today, he got a call today from the police department one county over saying my husbands van was found and towed. He told them that vehicle was reported stolen and lein saled and that it shouldnt even be in his name anymore. They told him no, youre still the registered legal owner😐 How did the tow company lein sale this vehicle when it was never transfered into the tow companys name OR to the new buyers name? Why is it still coming back as registered to my husband?
This article may help: http://www.asapliensales.com/LS-Questions-Towing.html
Hello ive been title jumped. Im in contact with the person whos name is on the title. Whats the best way to get the titled transfers to me?
Standard transfer rules always apply. A title or bill of sale from the registered owner is required to complete a transfer. if unable to obtain refer to DMV for alternative transfer methods
I just bought a 2008 car and the seller wrote down the odo on the title but didn’t sign that odo section. Being that the car is over 10 years old and doesn’t require an odo reading, even though it was put on the title, does that section still need the seller’s signature/date? Or can i just mail to the california dmv as is with no signature in the odo section of the title? Thanks!
The odometer is not required for a 2008. No signatures are required.
Hi,
I bought a car when I lived in St. Louis, MO in 2016 and financed it, I paid it off this last year and am looking to sell the vehicle here in California, but I just now received the Lien Release form from the Financing Company. I have the Certificate of Title from Missouri with the Company as the Lien Holder, I don’t know what’s the easiest way to get my clean title now in order to sell the car. I’ve gotten the run around from a lot of different people and need to get this car sold ASAP.
We’re not sure if vehicle is registered in CA.. If not, you need to submit your out of state title and lien release back to MO to remove lien holder. Then standard Non resident transfer requirements need to be done or if you find a buyer, then they new buyer can handle the out of state requirements.
I filled out the paperwork online to transfer ownership of an in-state car from the seller to me. I emailed all that paperwork to Ca. DMV. I assume I need to send the Original title to Ca. DMV but do I pay any fees or do I pay all associated fees when I register the car after I receive the new title?
The DMV will send you a bill and instructions on what is needed to complete the transfer. They can take 4-12 weeks to respond.
I live in Arizona and have bought a truck in California 2 months ago. The owner didn’t give me the title and has stated that she will be mailing the original title to California DMV to remove the reliability and a new title will be mailed to my Arizona address afterwards. However, I still haven’t received anything. Please advise.
Try to contact the person to see if they had transferred the vehicle into your name. Just an FYI that it takes 2 to 4 weeks for the new title to come in the mail as it comes from Sacramento.
I filled out the paperwork online to transfer ownership from the seller to me. I assume I need to send the Original title to Ca. DMV but do I pay any fees or do I pay all associated fees when I register the car after I receive the new title
The DMV will send you a bill and instructions on what is needed to complete the transfer. They can take 4-12 weeks to respond.
How would you transfer ownership of a financed vehicle to a family member in another state? My dad financed the car in NY that I’m driving in CA. After I get my CA license, I’m not sure what to do about the car because the bank owns it and it’s under my dad’s name.
You can’t transfer ownership of a vehicle you do not own. You must consult with the lien holder for any changes.
I’m going to buy a car today and it was bought frm the auction. Hasn’t been registered since 2018 I wanted to no how much would the reg be
We would need a license plate to determine fees with etags. But the Dmvcagov site has a registration calculator you can use.
I just bought a truck in California and the seller name is not the same as the legal owners, The transferor/buyer portion on the title was not signed by the seller but 1a and 1b were signed by the legal owners.Is that considered title jumping? What are my options on transferring ownership. I’m worried being accused of stealing the truck. Am i stuck with this truck that i cannot transfer drive? I have the title, truck and proof of purchase by cashiers check.
This sounds like a REPO title. Please consult with DMV bc eTags doesn’t process REPO.
I had an old little camper given to me in Cali. The title was lost so we went and titled it at the DMV there but I live in Montana. Brought it home and never licensed it here because in MT you don’t have to license a trailer unless its on a city street or being used. I realized I have a big tax bill from the last 4 years now and am not sure what to do. I’ve never received a bill and the title shows my address in Montana. The people at the DMV had us fill out forms because they knew it was leaving the State. I feel worried. Ive been on hold all day long due to coronavirus. Stressed so any help will put my mind at ease. I will also send a snail mail letter in.
Generally a change of address form will do when a vehicle leaves the state. But we can’t tell them if the DMV is going to garnish wages or not. Usually you will get proof the vehicle was registered in another state but they say they do not need to register it so no proof to send DMV. you need to contact the DMV for more details.
Hello,
I’m a California resident and I’m about to purchase a car out of state and was just told by the seller that the vehicle has an open title. I have never dealt with an open titled vehicle. Would I have problems registering this vehicle in California.
Thank you.
Typically, the new owner completes and signs buyer section on the out of state title before submitted to CA DMV.
Unless you’re saying that the person you bought the vehicle from never filled out the paperwork in that case you would need a bill of sale and it would be a multi person transfer.
Hi I bought a car form a dealer in feb 2020. They took so long turning in the paperwork that now they can’t and sent me paperwork to do myself. The car has an Oregon title and many transfers Reg 262. I tried the virtual dmv but they don’t do out of states yet. What are my options my dealer license plates expired this month. I guess I have to go in. Would AAA do this?
Yes unfortunately the DMV is not doing out of state transfers as it involves a Vin verification(an employee inspects the vehicle). AAA is doing out of state transfers(however they do not complete them as they can’t do the Vin verification either) We hope to offer this service in the future.
I purchased a used vehicle from a dealership in Calif Oct 2019. We just received a renewal registration due in July 2020. It looks like the dealership sold us a car with back registration is that legal. So now our registration is due again for $500 plus dollars. Help
in this case it’s best to contact your dealership
Hi There- I purchased a vehicle from an auto auction in Washington State. The vehicle has a Bill of Sale. The car was reported to the Washington State Dept of licensing as total/wrecked. As a result of it, the certificate of title was canceled. Washington State does not issue salvage titles. vehicles totaled/wrecked in Wa are sold on an insurance or wrecker or wrecker bill of sale. I have a letter form the Dept DMV of licensing letter that states this fact and I am not sure of the next step. I live in California and i am in the process of shipping the car to California. My specific questions are: -How do i register the vehicle, and assume it’ll need a smog test, and how do i obtain a title in California? Based on my research, it seems like once i obtain the vehicle, i need to submit for a bonded title, and after 3 yrs, the vehicle can be cleared as a clean title. is this your understanding as well?
Out of States vehicles require a vin verification, which we’re not sure how the DMV is treating it right now. Your best bet is to visit the DMV website DMV.CA.GOV and try to access the virtual transfer.
Sorry KT, this is the answer to your question: unfortunately we don’t process out of states or vehicles from auctions so any we wouldn’t know what the requires are from California for the title. Try the DMV’s website
Hi I’m buying a motorcycle on letgo it’s an app on cellphone that’s you can buy and sell your used stuff anyways she said that the bike is been there since they move in the house it’s been a year or more I think so she decided to sell it is that ok if I buy what om suppose to do in this matter? Thank you
Hello there, not sure what the question is? Are you looking to register the motorcycle? When submitting your response, pls also include hte question above so eTags has all info we need to help you.
I bought an extra car in 2017 directly from a car sales man ( not from the dealer) it was stated to be out of state and did not have plates. I had informed the dealer that I was unsure of how to go about the paperwork because i had never had and he stated he would take car of it. A month later something had gone wrong and I told the dealer and he stated he would put it as Non op.
well here we are 2020, everything is fixed with the car and i want to register it but its not in the system. Im searching for the the title cert and all documents from the sale and i cant find it (ive moved 3 times by this point).
How can I check that the title was infact switched or how can I transfer title if i have non of the document? CA DMV is not accepting new appointments so im at a lost.
Out of States vehicles require a vin verification which I do know that DMV is not doing right now. Visit DMV website DMV.CA.GOV and access the virtual transfer. See what information they give you.
My dad gave me his vehicle by signing it over to me on the title while he was hospitalized. He died two weeks later. I didn’t know that he had put my name on the car or the deeds to his mobile home until about a month later when I came across the paperwork. He lived in Arizona and I live in California. Since all the DMV’s have closed I don’t know how to get any of it transferred into my name. I don’t know either if I do it as a transfer to family or as deceased but the date on the titles is before he passed away. I keep trying to find help with what to do and how, but really I am stumped due to quarantine and also because I don’t know if I am doing this as a family transfer or as an inheritance. There is no probate btw.
I don’t even know how to get it insured under my own name since it isn’t registered to me yet. I’m starting to go a bit crazy worrying about this issue. It’s insured and registered until July. Any help would be greatly appreciated!!
hey there. It would have to be done through DMV as it is an out of state transfer. Check the DMV website through DMV.CA.GOV. They are doing virtual transfers. Not sure if they are doing out of states yet.
I have been on the phone with them all day with a similar issue (not the same but similar), so Idk if this will help but if you take the titles to your local dmv in AZ they should be able to take care of it. My dmv was going to but my issue is a little different. As long as he signed off on them… and for vehicles, Ca does not require a notary so your State should honor their laws.
I went to the dealership to buy a new car. I still owned a 2014 car that I owed $5,000 on hoping I could trade my car for a new car at the dealership. The dealership ended up paying the $5,000 I still owed to get the car off my hands, and I was able to walk out with a new car. Was I supposed to file a NRL or was the dealership going to do that? I wasn’t aware if I was or not and it’s been 5 months since I bought the car. I just now thought maybe I did have to file a NRL because I keep getting emails from the dmv that my registration for my 2014 car is almost expiring. Also, will there be a penalty from my end?
I always recommend completing a Release of liability when you sale any vehicle. You are not responsible for any registration if you sell a vehicle before the renewal date.
i live in California and I am gifting my non working vehicle that has expired tags to my father in law who lives in Arizona. Do i have to renew my tags before we send it?
If you are shipping the vehicle you will need to consult with the shipping company to determine their regulations for shipping. DMV offers a one trip moving permit but I do not know criteria or costs for this item refer to DMV.
How do we contact the DMV? No phones are answered, no Email answered, no online forms to fill out. DVM closed, as are all related locations. Been at it since 9 am! I have this entire situation on my hands. Need to get an RV from CA to AZ. No way to get a temp moving permit.
Hello there, we are not the DMV. we offer title and registration services in a few states including CA.
If the vehicle is not registered in CA refer to NV DMV for this question.
Hi. I bought a car private sale from someone who bought it via lien sale. So I have the lien sale paperwork for the seller and then the request for title between he and I. I have tried to submit this paperwork to dmv virtual office and they say it is not acceptable. Please help!
Lien sales must be submitted to DMV in person only
I bought a Motorhome out of oregon back in july of last year. I still havent registered it in my name yet. I know, i know….the tags run out on it this sept. I have had it insured in my name the whole time i have had it.
Im going to get hit with every penalty fee thats in the book arent I?
Soon as they open back up the campgrounds i can get back to work and register the RV. I also just got done paying for a travel trailer as well that has 2018 tags….ugh. money money money lol. Thanks in advance for your reply.
eTags doesn’t operate in Oregon, but it does in California. Are you looking to register your RV in Oregon or California?
Going to register it here in California
Registration fees for nonresident vehicles must be paid to DMV within 20 days of the date they become due. The date that registration fees become due varies. For date fees due, residency, and exemption information, see the How To: Determine Residency/When Are Fees Due on an Out-of-State Vehicles (HTVR 33) brochure. you will owe tax penalties if applicable and registration penalties.
here’s a link to brochure: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr33
I’m active duty military with a residence in SC and home of record in MN. I’m looking to buy a car in CA but register it in SC. Is it possible to just transfer my SC tags from my old vehicle to the new one? Do I pay SC sales tax or CA?
Refer to SC DMV to answer these questions. If you use the CA DMV in any way they will charge you as if you are registering here IN CA. If you take all the documents to SC you will be subject to their DMV rules.
I need to purchase a car in Maryland and drive back to my home in California. I will be purchasing this vehicle through a private party. I can’t get the temp tags or registration do to the dmv being closed in Maryland and California. Any suggestions?
If DMVs are closed, maybe try looking for a local “Tag and Title” offices that maybe open in Maryland. They would be the only place to get temporary tags to transport vehicle to another state. Or maybe look into paying it to get it towed to that state and contact their DMV about getting tags once it’s there.
HELLO, I AM TRYING TO SELL A FREIGHTLINER TRUCK, 2000, THAT IS NOW NOT ALLOWED ON CALIFORNIA ROADS. THE REGISTRATION EXPIRED IN FEBRUARY 2020. WHAT AM I REQUIRED TO OBTAIN FROM THE DMV IN ORDER TO SELL THE TRUCK OUT OF STATE?
Hello there, for commercial vehicles, it’s always a good idea to refer to your local DMV.
I want to gift my car to my cousin. I live in California and he lives in Colorado. Besides signing the title over to him is there anything else I need to do?
Extended family members, such as aunts and cousins, need to have car title ownership transferred to them using the standard process used when selling cars to private buyers. Check out some of the DMV CA rules for gifting here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-registration/titles/title-transfers-and-changes/
Hello I live in Ca and a friend is giving me (or selling me a car at very low cost).They thought it was non-op for the last 4 years it has been sitting in their driveway. Apparently it was not non-op and has accumulated $700 in penalties. Do I inherit these fees when we transfer ownership? What fees are my responsibility?
yes, if you become the new owner you are responsible for all delinquent registration fees.
I bought a car in California right before the quarantine…but it has an oregon title. I do not have license places or have it registered in my name because of the dmv field offices being closed. How can I do a title transfer online? Or is the a number where someone can assist me?
You can go to etags.com/app/ca and select title transfer. it’s all done online.
I sold a scooter to a friend of a friend three years ago it wasn’t really working just wanted to get rid of it so I signed off the title but till this day he hasn’t registered it and I have no idea where the person is I got a bill charging me for the registration why should I pay it if I haven’t had the scooter for three years. What to do?
You will need to submit a release of liability with the correct sale date to avoid registration fees. This is the only form the DMV provides to show the vehicle was sold if the new owner doesn’t complete a title transfer.
12 weeks since I paid off travel trlr. Lienholder said they forwarded paperwork to Ca DMV. Still no pink slip. Is it time to visit DMV.
If your vehicle is a permanent trailer or PTI (noted by the plate on the vehicle) it is most likely a paperless title. If it is a CCH or coach trailer and you have not received a title you may want to request a duplicate title.
My registration is up to date but my car didn’t pass smog because of an engine light. I let it sit for 6 months due to travel and other issues. The battery died and now I have to drive the car long enough to trigger all the sensors needed to allow a smog test/repair which is about 200+ miles. Is there a temporary permit or something I need to drive a car with expired tags for the purpose of putting in the miles needed for a smog test?
The DMV can issue a moving permit. It costs $50 and is only good for 60 days from expiration date. It sounds you like you do not qualify for that permit. The DMV can issue single day moving permits each day necessary.
A friend of mine ask me to store a scooter in my shop for him. Its about 10 years now and I cant get a hold of him. What can I do with this scooter now?
Vehicles not registered for more than 5 yrs are removed from the DMV system and must be started as a new vehicle. Scooters must be done at DMV and require a CHP verification.
I am about to pay off my car. There is a co-signer on the loan and the car is registered to both of us with an OR between our names. How do I handle this so that the title comes in my name only when it’s transferred from the lender? Do I file papers with the loan company to send to the DMV when they request the transfer, or do I have to wait to get the title from the DMV and then pay additional transfer fees to transfer to me alone?
When you have the title, you can go to the DMV or use our services at etags.com/app/ca. You’ll sign off the front of the title since there is an or, then put your info on the back. He could also contact the Bank to see if they can switch it before they send the title to you
My son passed away recently and one of his cars was under my husbands name and my son , my husband being the 1st as register owner and my son 2nd but it has / which means “and ” not “or” so my daughter in law goes and try to transfer the car in her name but without letting my husband know therefore my husband never signed a bill of sale or transfer form nor did he submit a release of liability which she has a document that states ” Incomplete Application ” meaning my husband and son still show as being the legal register owner , but we have been to 5 DMV offices , called sacramento , and also the Investigative unit at DMV and each time we get different information as what we need to do in order to fix the problem , we even went to file a police report but was not able to file one since we did not have proof that she was forging my husbands name being that she has not submitted any documents to DMV for processing only presented according to the DMV reason why she has a incomplete application so my question is, shouldn’t it be DMV the one who resolves the issue and fix the problem and my husband be able to get a duplicate title since we don’t know where my son put the original title or what can we do so that we are not back and forth from one DMV to another and with being told something different each time.
The DMV investigates fraud claims. The information you are receiving from the DMV is the information you will need to follow. We do not get involved in legal matters.
My son will be moving from TX. to Ca. for a year. The car he will be taking is in my name ( car title). What is my best option for registering car in California? She I just transfer title to him, so that while he is in Calfornia it will be in his name?
He will not be able to complete an out of state title transfer if he is not the owner. You will either need to complete all the CA transfer documents and have the plates mailed to you or transfer the title to your son. He will then be able to complete the CA transfer himself.
Im buying a car that was last registered in Florida over 6 years ago, and I would like to register it in California. It hasn’t been registered since. Is there going to be fees for all the years it wasn’t registered? Would I need anything else besides a smog, title and bill of sale?
No it wouldn’t be a problem to register it in CA. You may have to go to the DMV for an inspection though.(We’re assuming it’s a FL title)
Hi I recently bought a car from a tow yard that was impounded and never taken out the tags are past due from 2016 do I have to pay the past due tag fees from the previous owner
Yes, you will be required to pay the past due fees unless you have documentation to prove the vehicle was not being operated in which case you will be able to reduce the fees greatly by claiming Planned Non-Operational (PNO) status.
I have recently purchased a car from a friend on the condition it passes smog without major repairs It was transferred to my name when I registered it to take off non-op. I have paid for the vehicle. well I’ve come to find out it needs TWO FRONT CATALYTIC CONVERTERS. TheyThey are $400 each and well out of my budget.
What do I need to do to get car out of my name and back to seller? He is not disagreeing that it was all based on passing smog.
Thanks
Return all title documents to previous owner and complete a bill of sale from you back to him. Submit a release of liability . The previous owner will need to deal with transfer at DMV.
Hi there. I had a question over something that happened to my father.
My dad allowed my older sister to drive his car that was under his car until one day she got the car impounded. The car storage rate reached to about 2000 dollars in less than a month. I father didn’t have the money, so based off what he told me, he signed some papers to allow the car impound to do with the car what they liked and avoid paying the storage fee charged. They (impound) never asked my dad for the pink slip and gave him the idea that they’ll take care of it. I thought it was a little iffy that they didn’t ask for a pink slip when my dad was signing over the car and even more fishy that the woman who helped him never gave him a paper copy of the signed papers or any evidence that he even signed anything.
After months later he received a letter from the same impoubd place demanding the the money that was originally demanded from them and my dad has really nothing to work with in terms of paperwork. Much of what I wrote is based off what they told me and I know I’m not good with being familiar with car paperwork, but could you give me some advice as to what to do?
We first want to recommend that you seek professional legal advice in regards to receiving a demand. Without any bill of sale or a filed Notice of Release of Liability, you will need to contact the DMV directly for assistance as well as legal professional.
My parents passed away approximately 3 years ago. I am the trustee on their estate. They used to have an old Volvo that was not working. After their dead I have been receiving the renewal letter from the DMV with the non-operational status on it. I have no ideas if the car was sold to a junkyard. I have gone to the local DMV to let them know that the car is no longer in my possession. They told me to report to the police department in the city where my parents live. Unfortunately my sister, who would know, has not spoken to me since my parents death. I live in northern CA and my parents lived in southern CA.
Our condolences for your loss. The best thing to do is what the DMV clerk suggested which is to file a report stating that the car missing. Once the investigation is complete, the police report can be taken to the DMV to ultimately get the car taken out of the estates name. Alternatively, you can file Planned Non-Operational (PNO) status with the DMV until you find the vehicle and decide what you want to do with it but keep in mind that you will be required to pay the PNO fee for all the years the car has not been registered plus a late penalty.
Two friends of mine would like to take my car, drive it across the US on a two month road trip and then sell it in Washington DC. I’m selling the car anyway, as I’m going abroad for a while. However, would it even be possible for them to sell it in another state when they don’t own the car? And would I need to keep my insurence? Thanks!
You have to first sell them the car, transferring the title to them, before they can sell it themselves. No insurance needed for you to sell.
I live in California. My brother from Maryland came & visit me in 2018. He left his car & moved. I was forced to get the insurance under my name in California with a Maryland tag. I also continued to pay for the loan of the car. When the tag expired, I just let it set in my carport. Now, the car is all paid off & my brother wants to transfer the title to me as a gift & register it in California. I never stop paying for the insurance even the tag had expired. I found out that Maryland motor vehicle had charged my brother over $2,000 for lapsed insurance. I could show documents that the car has insurance. Will I be liable to pay for that penalty before I could transfer & register from Maryland to California? Please advice.
Ca only collects CA vehicle registration fees. You are not required to pay any fees to another state in order to register in CA
Help! I bought a new car in Dec 2018. It spent 90+days in the shop in it first yr. When registration was due in Dec 2019, I forgot to pay it. I haven’t seen the car in about 2mos at that point so totally forgot and didn’t see DMV renewal in the mail. As soon as I received the car back, I asked dealer to buy it back as issues have not been fixed. Dealer bought it back in January 2020. Then I received 60% penalty from DMV in the mail in Feb2020. It’s about $900. Do I have to pay $900 since dealer bought the car back? I was the owner when registration was due. Does this go with me or is the dealer responsible now? Car was a total lemon. If I am responsible and this will follow me, I am thinking to state it was inoperable as it truly was inoperable. We used our other family car to get around. 90 days is coming up in less than a week. Today is March 4th. What’s also confusing is WHY do I need to pay 60% late fee on $687 and not the inoperable fee. Thank you for your advice.
You are Not responsible for paying the DMV fees, the dealership is since they now own it. We suggest contacting the dealership to urge them to complete the transfer so that you do not continue to receive the DMV notices for that car. In the future, we suggest that you always file Notice of Release of Liability when you sell/gift a car (https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/brochures/reg/nrl) and, when you purchase a used vehicle, always check DMV fees due because you would be responsible for unpaid registration fees just as the dealership is currently responsible for the unpaid fees on that car
Brought my son a car in CA and registered and insured it there about a year ago. He is a college student in CA and will be finishing up in another quarter so when he came home to VA at Christmas we transferred the title to his name and registered it in VA. Now my husband (car was originally in his name) has gotten a notice of intent to suspend vehicle registration in CA because we need to provide insurance verification? The car is insured. Did we need to notify CA of the something? Thinking we skipped the step of letting them know it was now gifted to my son and registered in VA.
The California DMV requires notification when a car is transferred out of state. You can find instructions on how do that on this page: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vr/vr_info#moving
My dad who lives in Oregon wants to buy me a new car as a gift. I live in California. He plans on registering it in his name until I can come up and get it. Do I have to pay sales tax on it when I register it in California?
If dad gifts to daughter then there are no taxes – if he stays as the registered owner in CA, he will owe used tax difference. IE Oregon Tax 6%, in CA tax 8% he owes 2% in CA. This is valid 365 days from date of purchase.
Hello, I bought a car in Virginia paid sales tax and lived their for 8 months. Then moved to California. When I went to register the vehicle they said I owed them money on the difference in sales tax because it was withn a year. The lady told me to not register it and just hold it out of state till I hit the 365 day mark so that’s what I did. Today I went to register it because it’s been a year now and they say I will still owed them? Was what the lady originally told me not true?
The 365 day rule is 365 days from purchase. Try to contact a DMV manager. You may be paying late reg fees for not posting fees within 10 days of entry
Hi! My cars registration is due and I’m wondering since I will not be driving it, instead I will sell it but it will be in my garage until sold. Do I need to pay full registration for this vehicle as well as keep it insured? Can I just list it as “ Inoperable“ or what’s the best route I should take for the situation? Thanks!!
You only need to pay the regular/full registration fee if you plan on driving the vehicle You can file for Planned Non-Operational (PNO) status and pay a nominal fee of $21 to $25 to do so.
purchased a brand new vehicle in 2013 was financed 15k very high interest rate and payments. 2017 fell behind. ( haven’t made a payment sense) Contacted finance co. Tried to find a resolution,said they don’t refinance. Long story short they closed account collection /CO profit/loss. Shows I made 59($370) payments and balance still remains 9k I have had the car registered and insured and is still in my possession my registration list my residence and yet they have not came to pick up the car. since they sold the car to collection agency why are they not listed on my registration as the L/O it still shows the original finance companies name. I disagreed with the amount they said I still owed. I just don’t understand why they haven’t picked up the car is there any way that I could find out without calling the finance or collection agency to see if my car is up for repo. I don’t want to start the clock over by calling them.
We definitely recommend seeking legal advice as to the amounts owed and how to proceed with clearing the issue. However, if is not unusual for companies to take months or even years to submit a transfer of lien holder to the DMV.
Hello,
I have a PA titled car and title in hand and it registered in CA. In order to sell in CA , what documents would I need?
You’ll need the Original Title from PA in order to sell – if it’s registered only in CA, you won’t be able to transfer without the PA title.
This is considered a Golden Rod – Non transferable.
Hello, have a question. My mother in-law gifted me her car, she doesn’t drive anymore, I have completed all the transfer of title stuff but they Suggested I wait until after feb 14 to smog and reg since the renewal is almost up. I’m going to smog it now. My question is, I have found someone to trade with me for an suv more suited for the family. Can I just transfer the title and not pay for registration since it’s still good through April so the new owner would have to pay the registration? Or do I have to do it before I trade him. Also, can we actually trade without me having the new title in my hands yet? I’m sure it will take a few weeks to get the title from the dmv. And last, how do we go about doing a straight trade? I’ve never done one.
Registration fees are due within 75 days of the due date, whenever the transfer occurs if it falls under this time frame renewal will be due. A title or bill of sale is required to post DMV fees for the buyer, they will not be able to complete the transfer until they have the title. The DMV requires use tax to be paid on the value of a trade.
Hi , my husband died recently and we had several vehicles, pickups, boats, trailers and such, about 13, which I am now in the process of selling. Most of them we have owned more then 20years. I am wondering if DMV California will have an issue with the quantity of vehicles I need to sell.
Sorry for your loss. No the DMV shouldn’t have an issue with the number of vehicles you have.But, if you’re just selling them and you have the titles for each one of them, then the person purchasing it from you would be the one ‘transferring the titles’ to their name. Not you. They can go to DMV or use a a service like eTags to do the transfer online.
You can go to https://www.etags.com/app/ca?utm_source=blog&utm_term=%7Bkeyword%7D
Thank you for the info
I forgot to pay registration fees last december (12/19 )for my car (currently in my name). Im going to give this to a relative who wants to take this over as a “project” . It’s driveable, barely. I havent driven the car since early december and didnt file NPO. I am going to pay for the renewal and all late fees for registration (183$ total) ONLINE. despite the plan to give this away to my relative for HIM to drive for all of 2020 and beyond , I will pay all the registration/renewal with all late fees because I am a nice relative…. can we transfer title immediately? or is there a wait time needed in order to complete transfer because of the late (by 2 months) payment for renewal?
A transfer of title will occur once all fees are paid and the appropriate documents are submitted to the DMV.
Do I have to return my old license plates for a car that was totalled? My new car has new plates.
The plates should be surrendered to a DMV or AAA if you no longer own the vehicle.
Hello, I am from California and i have a CA driver license. I just bought a 1969 VW Westfalia Bus in VA with a title from VA. I am currently college student in DC and wont be going back to California for next several months. What can I do to register the VW bus under my name? I have the title but have not go to DMV because I dont know what I can do or supposed to.
You will need to contact the VA DMV to find out what DMV criteria that states has in accordance with a title transfer. You can’t register an out of state vehicle in CA if the vehicle is not in CA.
My daughter recently gifted her car to her lowlife boyfriend. She transferred title, but he has yet to register and insure it. She has the keys. Can she go back to the DMV and transfer it back to her? Of course he won’t give her the pink slip and copy of bill of sale.
He would have to transfer back the title to her
My husband has a CA title for a 1976 corvette that he bought in Arizona. He transferred the title to CA when he bought the car. We have now moved to NC. He tried to register the car in NC but NC says the car still has an Arizona tilted in the DMV database. We called CA and they say they do t update old cars made before 1986 in their database. Now what do we do?
The California issued title for the 1976 Corvette should be all you need to title and register the car in NC. If the NC DMV has doubts about the CA title you provide due to the conflicting record of last title state, they can confirm the validity of the CA title themselves by sending a request to the CA DMV or they may ask you to have seek a third-party validation to confirm the CA title you have is real. If you do not have the CA issued title, you’ll need to order a duplicate title. This can be done with eTags by visiting https://www.etags.com/app/ca but only if the address on CA DMV records can be used to ship the title to. If you need the CA title shipped to a new address, you will first have to update your address with the CA DMV by visiting https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/faq/genfaq. Lastly if it has been more than 4 years since you last paid the registration fees in CA, you may need to complete a DMV record re-instatement in order to get the CA Duplicate title. We also wanted to add that you may be able to request a duplicate title from the Arizona DMV but, there might be issues with requesting such a record when it is known that that was not the last state the vehicle was titled in
My brother in law’s girlfriend (at the time) took out a car under her name, he finished making the payments when the car was totaled. She got the vehicle title and gave it to him but she said she can’t transfer the vehicle title to him because the car won’t turn on to have a smog check. She wants him to tow the car and give them the title and they’ll take care of it. She went to the DMV and she took off the insurance on the car. I guess it’s been months that she took off the insurance so now she’s getting penalized for not having insurance on a vehicle. Is there a way to transfer a vehicle title on a vehicle that doesn’t turn on?
A title transfer requires a smog certification if it doesn’t qualify for the DMV exemptions. If you are junking or donating a car to a junk yard you will need to bring the title to the DMV and follow the procedures associated with the type of transaction you are requesting.
I am in a confusing situation. I recently traded in my car to a dealership when I purchased my new vehicle. I explained to the dealership that I did not have my title in hand that day because I had lost it and was waiting for the replacement title to come in the mail. The dealership was fine with me mailing them the title to complete the trade in once I received the replacement in the mail. My previous car was registered in California and had California license plates but it was still a Washington state title. So my question is now that I received the WA title in the mail, do I need to transfer the WA title to a CA title before sending it to the dealer to complete the sale/trade in or can your car have a different state title than the origin of the license plates? And if I have to transfer the title to a CA title first, how do I go about doing that without the car in my possession anymore (i.e. I can’t get a verification of vehicle form filled out)?. Please help! Thank you!
The dealership should be able to accept the WA title, but you need to discuss this situation with the Dealership
We purchase a truck from a dealership in California in October 2019. We still have not received the registration. I’ve called the dealership several time and left messages. The few times I was able to reach a person they would put me on hold for a long time then tell me they will call me back but then never call back. Who is responsible for submitting the paperwork to the DMV? And what should/can I do to get my truck registered?
The dealership is responsible for doing the title transfer work unless they gave you the title at time of purchase. If dealership is not responding, perhaps visit in person.?
Hello!
I purchased a vehicle from a friend a few months ago and I haven’t been able to afford switching the title into my name. The pink slip still says his name. Is there fees for not doing it? Do I have a cut off time? Im in a hard spot and trying to make the best of it. Any advice would be awesome. Thank you
The DMV requires transfer fees to be deposited within 30 days of purchase date to avoid transfer penalties. Transfer fees, use tax and registration (if due) are required to be paid to complete a transfer of title.
Hello guys I’m going to look at a truck today and there’s a repo stamp on the bottom of the pink slip is that a problem also I live in California also the pink slip has commercial at the top left corner
All trucks in CA are considered commercial due to the open bed. We do not handle REPO so you will need to contact DMV for additional information.
I bought a car and the check engine light came on before I got it smoged.
I have a incomplete title pending smog but can’t pass smog due to check engine. I can’t afford to fix the problem.
How can I sell the car with a incomplete title?
If you can find a buyer to agree to purchase the vehicle as is, you will complete a bill of sale and give the new owner any existing documents. You will then turn in a release of liability.
Hi
I am from france. I have an RV registered in Québec. IAM going to sell it in California to a Switzerland family. Can you tell me what I have to do. Thanks
So if the title was in California, we (eTags) could have done the title transfer for you but since it’s not and you have a few variables, best to contact the California DMV. Every state has different regulations.
Hi, I recently sold my car and did not realize I had 5 days to transfer the title. It has now been 10 days and I am very worried. I am going to mail it out tomorrow morning but I just don’t want to get in trouble for a silly mistake. Could you give me any insight on this ?
The DMV allows 30 days from the purchase date to post fees without incurring late penalties.
Hi all, we recently moved to CA from WA, and both of our cars are still registered/titled in WA. Other than obtaining a smog check, is there anything needed in order to sell the vehicle to a CA buyer?
You can find answers here
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vr/checklists/outofstate
I live in california and was given a car from my father who is from texas. I completed all the transfers , got the car registered and got the car insured only to later find out that the car has a salvage title. Is there anything I need to do in california with the salvage title?
If the Texas title was branded as Salvage then CA would have used the same salvaged “brand” on your CA title. The DMV representatives that handled your CA transfer should have handled this and branded the the title at the time of your visit.
Hi
So I have A complicated situation
I’m overseas and my car is back In the state of California with expired tag and lost the title and I want to sell it to my friend who is currently the car park next to his house but with out the tittle and me not present is it possible to sell it and if so how ?
Thanks
You can download a Reg.227 duplicate title/transfer request document. Seller completes section 1/3 and 4. New owner completes reverse section 6. You must mail the original document to your friend in CA and he can then pay for all applicable fees /smog and complete transfer
Hi, I have an unusual situation. I recently purchased a vehicle from a company in which the vehicle had expired tags. I received a temporary transfer of title so I was waiting for the forms to come in the mail so I could register the vehicle. I was under the impression that since the company I purchased the vehicle from still holds the title as I put down $12,000 and owe $2500 that they would be responsible for updating the tags and getting a smog check? Well the vehicle got towed last night and I don’t know how I am supposed to get it out without a valid registration? The transfer of title is in my name but the tags are still not updated in the system? What do I do? Please help.
The buyer is responsible for paying any unpaid registration at the time of the transfer. The seller is responsible for the smog certification. You can post any unpaid fees and start the title transfer with a bill of sale. You will then receive an incomplete registration card in your name that you can use to get the vehicle at of tow along with a moving permit that the DMV will need to to provide you.
Travis. My son-in-law is buying a 2003 small travel trailer in Idaho from a dealer. He lives in California and would need to register in California. All paperwork and money is being done via the mail. The question is after he get title how long does he have to register and pay California tax from date of purchase? If the vin number is on title do you need to see the trailer? Weather conditions now makes towing now dangerous. Thanks
To complete a Title Transfer while avoiding late fees you have 30 days. Out of state transfer require Vin Verification in California / by we’re not sure about Idaho since eTags doesn’t operate in that state.
Kinda in a weird situation here. Bought a car with my ex last year, registered it in his name and started on a road trip. Then we broke up and I decided to keep the car. I’m on the other side of the continent (Toronto, CA actually), planning to drive back to CA when the weather warms up again, but the registration is expiring in a month and I would like to transfer the title to my name soon if possible. Is there a way to get the title transfer done with a temporary smog exemption so I can get the new sticker?
If you have your ex sign over the title to you, then you can complete the title transfer and pay fees while you wait to complete the smog. You won’t be issued stickers until you complete smog but you won’t accumulate fines. http://www.etags.com/app/ca
I sold my car but still haven’t gotten back any info from the new buyer to release the car under my name. What can I do?
If you’re asking if there is anything you need to do with the CA DMV, no. If you have a bill of sale to confirm that you sold the vehicle, that is always useful but there is nothing you can do except wait.
If i purchased a car from a dealership how long do i have to wait to be able to change the registered owner. My friend wanted a car but does not have the credit. I ended up buying the car for her which i regret and now i am trying to get my name off from being the registered owner. Purchasing the car was the worst mistake i have done this year. any advice would be great.
You don’t have to wait any period of time if it wasn’t financed. You can do it whenever you want and your friend can go thru with eTags for a convenient title transfer registration. Just got to etags.com/app/CA . If the car is financed, the whole process has to start with lienholder, from removing name and so on.
If you are gifted a car do you have to pay the past due tags of the previous owner?
Yes, you would have to pay.
I bought a used vehicle in Louisiana from a reputable dealer, shortly after it was traded by the former owner. There were two pre-existing liens on the vehicle at the time of my purchase, and the dealer was in the process of satisfying those liens. The liens have been satisfied but title has not yet been received from the lienholders. I am concerned that I will have to pay a penalty if I don’t register the vehicle within 30 days — is it possible to register the vehicle in California pending the dealer’s production of the title to me? If so, what form should I use?
Whatever is recorded as the sale date on the bill of sale or title, is used to start the count for the 30 days for penalties regardless of when dealership gives you paperwork.
I understand the timing, but what I am asking is whether there’s a way to register the vehicle before the 30 days expires (so that I don’t get fined) while I am waiting for the title to be delivered by the dealer — a sort of temporary registration that complies with the law until such time as the title is sent to me. I saw a reference on-line to a non-transferable title — is that something that would work?
The dealership should have given you a temporary paper that you place on your windshield until you notices from DMV. The dealership should’ve submitted all the paperwork. the title will remain with dealer until it’s fully paid off.
I recently sold a car through A dealership consignment and i signed a power of attorney for him to sell the car. Should i receive a copy of Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability? Do dealerships require these? How do i know I’m protected?
A notarized bill of sale or release of liability should be enough to protect you.
I have a motorcycle that my now, ex boyfriend financed for me. I made all the monthly payments as promised and paid off the bike and now he won’t give me the title to the bike. What can I do get this title!! Reside in California
It’s best to talk to a lawyer.
I gave my car that is registered in California where I reside to my niece residing in Arizona. The car is in Arizona but still under my name. To transfer the tile to her so she can register it there do I need a smog test here in California before title transfer?
You need to get in touch with the Arizona DMV to find out what their requirements are.
Im planning to sell a vehicle for parts, to various people online since I’m trying to get the most i can, and im confused as to what one does with the title? The parts would get sold to multiple people so theres not just one buyer. Sorry im very new to this whole title transfer thing when buying/selling
Affidavit of non-use is a form you can submit to DMV, so you get a non-repairable status and not get renewal notices (every year) for tags anymore.
I recently purchased a car from a private seller. He gave me the title to look over and sign plus the registration and tag. However we were supposed to meet later that afternoon so that I could take ownership of the car but he never showed up. Now I have a unsigned title and registration but no vehicle. What should I do?
If you don’t have a notarized bill of sale, and can’t connect with the seller, you may need to contact a lawyer. Right now, the seller is the oner. He can actually get a duplicate title and sell to someone else.
I have a question… if an LLC owns my vehicles in another state can I keep them and drive them in CA?
No, CA will require you to get CA plates, but you can keep them titled in that other state. Our understanding is that you want to keep them in CA.
Yes if the LLC is in Montana can the vehicles be kept and driven in CA? I was thinking not but I cant find the the law on it. can you direct me to the CVC section?
CVC won’t have the answers, you should try CHP: California highway patrol
I live in California and am considering purchasing a vehicle from a California dealership. The car has Arizona license plates. Will I need to get the car smog checked if I purchase it or should the dealership do it prior to sale? Is it the dealerships’ responsibility to handle all of the DMV registration, title transfer, etc. paperwork?
No the dealership is not required to smog the vehicle prior to the sale. The dealership’s responsibility to register/title would only be if you’re financing the car.
CA dealerships are required to smog vehicles. You should not have to worry about obtaining a smog because it will be their responsibility to register the vehicle for you.
I’m looking to purchase a car (2004 Porsche) from an auction that only comes with a Bill of Sale, no title. It was a recovered theft vehicle that is being sold by an auctioneer for the insurance company in Washington. What will I need to do to get a title for it in California?
Purchases from auctions are a tad more complex, it would be better to contact you local California DMV for details. Call 1 (800) 777-0133
i did a title transfer on a car i just bought and all paper work was done and paid for then they tell me i have to get a smog done before i can get the title, i am selling it to a person in arizona and they want to smog it in ariz. how do i do this
California will not accept a smog from another state. If you plan on not completing your original transfer in CA then you can give the CA title and a bill of sale to the new owner and they can consult the AZ DMV one what is required to do a transfer in their state.
I just moved from Washington state to California. I did not bring my car with me. It’s in Arizona stored in a garage but may be driven on a very rare occasion. Since I’m not bringing it to California and I’m no longer in Washington, which state do I register and insure the vehicle?
If the car will be driven (even on rare occasions) in Arizona, it should be registered in Arizona. If it won’t be driven at all, you can register it as non-operational with ADOT
Wouldn’t I need to have an Arizona drivers license in order to register the vehicle in Arizona? If so, how would I obtain an AZ drivers license as a resident of California?
You’d have to show residency in order to get an ID in Arizona.
I’m not a resident of AZ. I live in CA. My car just happens to be stored in AZ and driven on a very rare occasion in AZ. I’m still unclear how I register my vehicle if I live in CA and don’t plan on moving to AZ or taking my car out of storage in AZ anytime soon.
It’s best to check with the AZ DMV in regards to their rules with out of state vehicles.
I have a car registered and titled in Pennsylvania in my name. My daughter is going to sell the car in California. How do I go about the process of selling the car without physically being in California myself?
You’ll have to fill out the Assignment of Title section, and get it notarized.
do I assign the title to my daughter?
No, you’ll assign it to the person purchasing the vehicle.
Hi, I just sold an out of state car in California (the vehicle was registered in Florida). Florida DMV wants the licensed plate back as I checked their website. However, the buyer needed to drive the car home, so he took my Florida plate number. My question is, when the buyer registers the car in California, The California DMV will take Florida plate from him or not? Because the plate is under my name, and I want to make sure my Florida plate will not have stayed with the buyer. Thanks 🙂
In Florida, the license plate is associated with the person, in California the plate is associated with the vehicle which is why the buyer may have taken it with him. First, contact the FL DMV to inform them that the vehicle has been sold and you no longer have the license plate. Then try to contact the buyer to get the plate back.
Unfortunately, the buyer refuses to return the license plate! But, I am sending a letter to Florida DMV to explain the situation and inform them I am no longer in possession of the license plate.
My son purchased a car without a title in CA. He got a bill of sale. He went to register the car and that person was not the registered owner. Found out that person never registered the vehicle in their name and also bought it via bill of sale. So now it has unpaid registration fees piling up as well. We have tried contacting the person he bought it from and they are not being responsive. What can be done?
These situations unfortunately must be handled at DMV field offices. The DMV will determine what the transaction requires based on vehicle value and vehicle history.
What if last titled owner cannot be reached band said vehicle got impounded .new owner is insured on any vehicle the driver may drive .how do we get the name of the last titled owner nobody will release that information do we can get title in new owners name even thought titled owner released liability ?
If you don’t have the most current title and don’t know who the owner is, you may have to look into a bonded title so they can insure the title in California. Then, you may be able take ownership of the vehicle, but not have a clean/clear title.
Hello,
I want to get custom personalized plates. If I get custom plates will I have to pay for new registration stickers or could I use my current stickers?
Yes, with the new plate you get a new sticker.
Hello, I’m planning to buy a clean title car from another state via Copart auto auction. Again, it’s a clean title car. Is it going to be the same title when it’s transferred to California?
Hi Benjamin, if the title you are getting from the auction is clean (no liens, not salvaged, etc), you will get a clean car title when you transfer it to your name or your business’s name. Keep in mind you will likely need to complete a smog inspection before you can complete the transfer. If the title you receive from the auction is a California issued title, you can use eTags online transfer service to title the car in your name.
Thanks a lot for your response, Claudia. If you don’t mind, would you please answer one more question? So, even if a car is quite damaged and requires repair before it can be used but the title is Clean Title, the car will not be reassessed and/or reassigned the title when moved to CA? Your input appreciated.
If it’a clean title and can pass the smog inspection, you won’t have trouble titling and registering the car in California.
I bought a 5th wheeler in Oregon that had been sitting over 10 years, no yearly fees paid in that time. Its stripped inside, unusable until some work is done. What is the process I do at DMV?
Because it’s been 10 years, it would be like a first time registration with new plates. You have to have your title, insurance and other documents to be issued new plates.
Hello! I recently took a gamble on a 1990’s BMW. The car was supposed to be Non-Op and the previous owner “lost” the title. (This car was VERY cheap). After receiving the BOS, I went to the DMV to fill out a form for title transfer or lost title where I was surprised to find that the car was back-tagged 3 years. (a total cost of $832) Since I also do not have the title (and can’t get it until I pay the $832), I did some research and found out that I can register the vehicle through Vermont due to their leniency with proof of ownership. My questions are, if I were to register my vehicle through Vermont, would I still have to pay the back-tags for California’s DMV? Or if that is impossible, is there any way to avoid these fees due to the fact that I was deceived into believing that it was Non-Op? Thanks!
California will keeps car history for seven years, so yes you would still have to pa the back-tagged 3 years even if you registered it in Vermont first. The only way to avoid fees is to wait the seven years or get into litigation with person who sold you the car.
A friend car got towed and recieve a letter for collection. She makung a smart moved to go online and did a transfer release liabilty through dmv after her car got towed 9 days ago. She want to avoid getting charges for her non op vehicle. She did an online and transfer to my name without discuss it with me. Will my name be automarically assign as new onwer to the vehicle and do i get bill fir tge tow ?
If the car is transferred to your name, the title and registration will be in your name. In terms of fees, you’ll be responsible for any unpaid registration fees but not towing or ticket fees.
I SOLD A TRUCK TO A BUYER IN CANADA, he has not removed the truck within a reasonable amount of days.Its been 60 days, the truck now has expired california tags and has no insurance, parked in my driveway.Can i now place a lien on the title for storage,late fees and insurance or can i now resale the truck to another buyer for less money
For the placing a lien situation, contact an attorney for legal advice. As far as reselling the truck to another buyer, if you did not sign over the title and still have it, then you can legally resell. Keep in mind that the Canadian buyer may have a valid legal claim if he paid for the vehicle.
Hello, I bought a vehicle from a California resident in April of 2018. I am in the military and have been deployed while the car has been parked and in storage here in Texas. My title got sent to the wrong address and am currently in the process of doing a duplicate tittle with transfer. The registration expired in July of 2018 while here in Texas. Do I still have to pay extra fees? Or can I have them waived since it’s been in storage parked since I’ve been gone? As my 2 proof of identification I have my military Id included. Will that be enough proof?
A vehicle must be in a NON OP status to avoid registration and penalties. In order to request a Non operation status you must submit a request, pay the non op fee either 60 days before expiration or up to 90 days after expiration. If you request a duplicate title only the DMV will allow the request without paying registration fees. If a title transfer occurs the new owner will be responsible for any registration and late fees that are due at the time of transfer.
Hi,
I co-own a Vehicle with my son in California, he has finished paying the vehicle off and we now have the title. It is “my name” or “his name” on title. I went to DMV with title to remove my name from the title so it could be only in his now. But they told me he had to sign the title to accept sole responsibility for it. Everything I’ve read said only I needed to sign it if I wanted to remove my name. So I am confused. He’s currently away on deployment and I wanted to take care of as soon as I could. Is DMV person giving me correct information. Because I have seen DMV give misinformation before to someone regarding her new DL. Poor woman was at DMV 3 times in one day. So I found this website hoping for additional information while I wait for my son to return home.
Thank you
A new owner must sign to accept sole responsibility. And you, the mom, must sign to release responsibility. It sounds like you were advised correctly by the DMV. If your son is deployed, you’ll need to wait until he can sign it or he will need to send you a power of attorney.Hope this helps!
Hello, looking at purchasing a lien sale car In California. How do I register it in Az and get a title?
Contact the Arizona DMV to know what their specific requirements would be.
Hello,
I recently purchased a used truck with a salvage title from a private party in Ca. He had just bought it from someone else who had it registered as non-op and got the tags and everything. I purchased it from him less than 90 days from this and went to the DMV to transfer the title to my name within the 10 days. I got an incomplete title due to no smog. I didn’t get a smog certificate from the seller but I assumed since we were inside the 90 day period I wouldn’t need one. I have contacted the seller see if he can provide it for me but I am performing some repairs and it will not pass smog as it stands. How long do I have before I smog it myself if I can’t get the other smog?
Hi Gor, thanks for your question. Without full details on the vehicle, here is what we can assume: Since the vehicle was in non-op status it is not likely that it has been smogged within the last 90 days since, among other reasons, the non-op status is used to keep the vehicle registration current when it is known that smog cannot be passed and so vehicle will not be driven. Essentially, we assume that the smog needs to be completed by you once the vehicle is ready. Feel free to contact our support team directly by email if you would like to have them review the details of this vehicle’s history and what is needed to get it on the road.
Hi, and thanks for your reply. The person I bought it from had it registered under his name and tagged and was driving it. This also happened around a month ago so within the 90 days. It’s a 98 Ford Ranger if that helps.
Thanks again!
You’re correct if the last smog was done less than 90 days ago. It would be valid to use with transfer. However, if the DMV acknowledging the smog done in 90 days, there was likely an issue with that smog inspection. Go to https://www.bar.ca.gov/pubwebquery/Vehicle/PubTstQry.aspx
and enter the plate number to check the last valid smog inspection.
Sold my car last year but I forgot to transfer the car, and the new owner never did too. I dont know what he did to the car but the car is still under my name and says that I have a fee to pay how do I dilute this problem.
By showing proof of sale at the DMV, typically the top part of the title.
Hi, My car is registered in California and I live here. However, I have an out-of-state title that I need to transfer to being a California title. I am not selling my car, just want my Texas title to become a California one. I got my Texas title mailed to me. What do I need to do at the DMV to get the California title?
Please go to https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/vr/checklists/outofstate for more info.
I am buying a car from Washington state that has been Non-Op since 2003 and need to register and transfer title in California. I asked the seller if it had been registered as Non-Op and he said that Washington does not do non-ops. Will I have to pay back registration in Cali even though there is no non-op provision in Washington?
Hi Darren, California will only collect back taxes for vehicles that have previously been registered in California within the last 7 years. If it has never been registered in California or if it has been more than 7 years since it was last registered in California, there would be no back taxes due. We hope that helps.
Hi, my car’s title is in South Carolina, and I want to sell it in California. I haven’t registered in California yet. Do I need to register it first, or the “registration” and “selling” could be done in one transection by the buyer. Thanks in advance.
No you don’t have to register in California to sell it.
My sister wants to gift me a 2002 PT Cruiser, she owes a month or two of registration fees, will that be transferred to me as the new owner?
yes, because the plates go with the vehicle.
My car is registered in North Carolina and I will be gifting the car to my parents whom reside in California. My plates dont expire until Sept 2020. Will my parents need to pay sales use tax on the vehicle i send to them?
Since you’re not “selling” the car and gifting instead, there should be no extra fees. Contact your local DMV in California for more details.
Hi, me and my ex wife separated I have a car that is mine but registered under her name. I’ve tried multiple times trying to contact her and ask her to transfer the car to me but no answer. Is there a way I can have the car transferred to me by myself without legal getting involved?
Hello Glenn. If the vehicle is registered under her name, she will need to sign it over to you. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do unless you seek for legal expertise. Good luck!
my mothers boyfriend is gifting me his 2000 bmw m5 but CA has a lien on the title for him not paying something when he lived there. i live in colorado and now they live in kentucky. what needs to be done for me to get the title
Hello Daniel. From the information you have provided it appears that your mother’s boyfriend does not have the title. You will need to verify the status of the vehicle before making further assumptions. If there’s a lien on the vehicle, the owner needs to pay off lien to get the title. Please refer to the DMV in the state where the vehicle was last registered for further instructions.
I bought a motorcycle.from a dismantler in rancho cordova ca that had no paperwork. I ran a check on the vin and found that it was last registered in florida last year. I have no way of contacting the last registered owner so how can i get the bike registered here in CA
Hello Roy. The dismantler must be able to hand you the title and you will need to get a certification package to give proof the vehicle is 100% in good shape to be back on the market.
hi, I m buying a fifth wheel trailer with a salvage title, can I ask for a temporary permit at the dmv ( in california ) to haul it to my house?
Hello Florian. You will need to contact the DMV agency in your county to find out whether you qualify for temporary tags. Good luck!
Looking for some help. I have vehicle registered in California but the title issued is from Washington State. I’m looking to transfer ownership of the vehicle in California. Which procedures do i need to follow?
Hello Joshua. Here’s a checklist of items that you need to present once you visit your local DMV agency in CA.
– Certificate of title
– Signature(s) of seller(s) (And lienholder, if applicable)
– Signature(s) of buyer(s) on the Certificate of Title.
– Odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.
– Smog certification.
– Transfer fee.
– Use tax and/or various other fees.
You may find in-person appointments inconvenient. You could always use our online tool to title the vehicle into your name from the comfort of your home.
For more information about title transfers in CA or our services, feel free to contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to assist you.
I have a question about gifting/registration to a grandchild. I want to gift my 17 yr old grandson a 1991 Toyota truck he DOES posses a Ca. DL.
Can my licensed 17 yr old grandchild be the sole registered owner of said vehicle? Thank you for 4
Hi there. Each state issues different age restrictions when it comes to vehicle ownership. You will need to contact your DMV agent for further information. Remember a minor is not allowed to enter contractual agreements when it comes to purchasing but a transfer of ownership between family members may be a different story.
So what if my fiancé’s brother from North Carolina ships his car in California and still wants to be the registered owner but wants us to have his car and take care of it and drive it around sometimes while he goes on his trucking job? Would we have to be added under his insurance if he still wants his car to be under his name and still have North Carolina license plates in California? What should we do?
Hello Rodessa. In CA, you are allowed to keep a car from an out-of-state resident without having to process a new registration. Yet, he will need to contact his auto insurance policy to discuss what he’s entitled to.
I am coming from Canada to purchase a vehicle in California. I am able to arrange for a transit permit and insurance prior to me picking up the vehicle. Is it required for me to transfer the title to my name or would that only be needed if the vehicle is going to be in the US more than 10 days after I take possession of the vehicle? How would the NRL be filled out as my Canadian address does not fit in the boxes on the form? How would tax be collected on the vehicle purchase?
Hello Sandy. From the information you have provided it seems that you will need to follow certain instructions that only applies to foreign purchases. If you purchased the vehicle from a dealership, they will be able to guide you on this process accordingly. If not, you should contact the DMV in CA for further instructions.
So what if my fiancé’s brother from North Carolina ships his car in California and still wants to be the registered owner but wants us to have his car and take care of it and drive it around sometimes while he goes on his trucking job? Would we have to be added under his insurance if he still wants his car to be under his name and still have North Carolina license plates in California? What should we do?
Hello Rodessa. In CA, you are allowed to keep a car from an out-of-state resident without having to process a new registration. Yet, he will need to contact his auto insurance policy to discuss what he’s entitled to.
My father in CA shipped one of his vehicles to me in MS as a gift. I’ve registered it in MS, and mailed the completed NRL from atop the CA title to the CA DMV. When I registered the vehicle in MS, their DMV retained the CA title and will be mailing me a new one along with new MS plates. I had them photocopy the CA title for me, as at the top of the back of the title it says it needs to be given to the CA DMV within 10 days. Since I’ve mailed in the NRL and registered the vehicle in MS with a new title pending, do I need to mail my photocopy of the signed/completed CA title back to the CA DMV? Do I need to mail in anything else with it? If so, what mailing address should I send it to? Thanks!
Hello Eric. The requirements on the reverse only pertains to transfers in CA. Since you already submitted the NRL, you no longer need to submit anything else.
Hi. My aunt is gifting me a vehicle. We are going to change the title in my name and everything soon. My question is the deadline for the tags/registration just came up and she went and paid it to avoid fees. When we transfer the title does that also transfer the tags/registration or will I have to pay for that all over again?
Hello Devo. Vehicle registration stays with the person. You will need to title and register the vehicle into your name at your local DMV agency in CA.
Yet, eTags offers title transfer for CA residents online. All you need to do is visit our portal, follow our simple instructions, and complete this procedure without having to arrange in-person visits.
If you have any questions about title transfers or our services, please contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to assist you.
Hi im from ca and my half sister gave me a car that is giving me hassle but i already paid all fees but thry they wont give me a sticker cause they say i need a smog what can i do it wont pass smog
Hello Lupe. To register a vehicle in California, you’ll need to pass smog inspection, which is part of the regulations set by the DMV.
Hello, I currently live in CA, I have a car I want to sell. However I have not paid my tags in 2 yrs, it’s just bee sitting in my garage. My question is who will be liable for the back pay myself or the new owner?
Please help. Thank you!
Hello David. The renewal and pending fees stays with the person and is not transferable to any other person upon transaction.
If I can get some advice I would appreciate it. My father who lives in AZ brought a car over to Ca. He left it here with me, He took the license plate and left title here with me. I turned around and sold it. As is. The lady that bought it knew beforehand that it had to be smogged, registered and insured and certified. She said that would be fine, that she would be able to do everything before driving it. Now the lady has been driving it around the city with no license plate, hasn’t registered the car at all keeps telling me the cops had pulled her over saying I sold her a car illegally. Then proceeded to tell me that DMV told her she can’t register, because the car was never registered in Ca. What did I do wrong? Any advice?
Hello Angie. From the information you have provided you should’ve titled the vehicle into your name to make the transfer smoother. Since you’ve already sold the vehicle, you are strongly advised to contact your local DMV agency and report the transaction. They might as well give you further instructions to take care of the situation promptly. Good luck.
Hi, I bought a used car from a private seller roughly around end of May 2019, I went to the dmv paid the fees but did not smog it. Tags are due in a couple of days but I am moving so was wondering if I can sell with an incomplete registration? Any tips
Hello Dominic. From the information you have provided you could sell the vehicle to any buyer. You will need to provide proof of ownership and ensure a smooth transaction though.
I moved to Oregon from California. My registration is expired and I lost the title. I don’t know what to do at this point. The CA title replacement form has to be notarized by a California notary which can’t happen. Any ideas?
Hello Pam. If you lost your title, you will need to contact your DMV in CA and request a replacement otherwise there isn’t any other way to get a new title. Good luck!
My financed car that was registered in Illinois was towed and impounded in California for 5 parking tickets. I was unable to pay the parking tickets and impound fees so the tow yard said they were gonna auction it off. I was very confused bc my auto loan company is the lien holder of the car. California reached out to Illinois to get approval and i guess they got it because they sold the car in dec of 2018. I was still confused as i Gad heard nothing from my loan company. I also stopped paying the loan as i no longer Gad possession of the car. Fast forward to yesterday i called my loan company about the reporting of my loan on my credit report they said we have the car it was picked up 5 days ago on July 5th, i was confused because i know the car was sold and informed them. They said no it’s still registered to you via the VIN number, so i explained that the tow yard had sold the car, after a 15 min hold they asked me to provide them
Proof as they were not aware. I also didn’t have any proof it was sold either. So i called the tow yard and told i could get a disposition paper, so i went the next day after they closed as i was unaware bc its a tow yard and asked if i could get since i wouldn’t be able to come any other day. The gentlemen who told me to come the day before transferred me to his supervisor. After a brief explanation the supervisor told me he would not give me the paper as it wasn’t my business to receive it and it was his choice bc that would be a receipt of sale and i didn’t buy the car. So I’m wondering if they messed up and don’t want a trail bc the car he been sold since the the person bought it at auction.
Hello Eb. From the information you have provided it makes more sense to seek for legal advice as this incident falls outside our area of expertise. You should try to resolve this matter as soon as possible though. Good luck.
My father and I are co-owners of three classic cars titled in Michigan with “full survivor benefits”. My mother and father are going to spend the rest of their retirement in Northern California and my father would like to enjoy/drive the cars while there. Since my name is also on the Michigan title and I remain in Michigan, can my father register the vehicles in CA to drive while keeping the Title with my address on it in Michigan?
Hello John. From the information you have provided you will have to consider the nature of the co-ownership, either “or” or “and” value. At some point states require drivers to turn their non-state titles into local ones. Get in touch with your local DMV clerk for more information about your request.
The co-ownership is “and”. Appreciate any more insight
Hello John. You will either need to be in CA to register the vehicle at the nearest CA DMV or hand your father a Power of Attorney to process that transaction alone.
I am 46. If my Mother buys a new car outright (cash) and then transfers the title to me are there any tax implications other than the usual taxes for title transfer? Is this considered a monetary gift via the $15K threshold?
Hello Shane. In CA, if your mother signs over the title to you as a gift, you’ll need to title the vehicle within 10 days of receiving the car. Note that title transfers between family members are exempted of paying the state’s sales taxes as long as they provide a statement of facts detailing the nature of the transfer. You will still be required to pay the title transfer fee though.
Now, did you know that eTags offers online title transfers in California? All you need to do is visit our portal and follow the instructions to get your new title within minutes.
For more information about car registrations in FL or our services, please contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to assist you.
I inherited a vehicle registered in Mississippi from my father. What do I need to do to title and register it here in California?
Hello KB. Typically, if you need to complete the transfer without probate, you will need to submit the following items:
– California Certificate of Title. The California Certificate of Title. …
– Certificate of Transfer Without Probate A Certificate of Transfer Without Probate (REG 5) completed and signed by the heir.
– Odometer Disclosure Statement Odometer Disclosure Statement.
– A Transfer Fee.
As it is an out of state vehicle, you will need to contact your local DMV agency in CA and follow the registration requirements based on the type of vehicle that you own. Remember that CA requires motorists to get a smog certification on the vehicle they need to register.
I recently purchased a used vehicle in California about a month ago and I haven’t registered it yet. I know I’ll need to pay a late fee but I’m moving to Utah in about a week (It’s getting towed out there) What will be the cheapest and easiest way to get it sorted out? Will I have to first complete all registration and title transfer work in California and then do it all over again in Utah? And the last hitch is it needs work to pass smog (needs a smog for registration) in California but at my new address in Utah it only will need an inspection. Thanks in advance.
Hello Kade. From the information you have provided you’ll be required to register your vehicle in order to drive it in CA. Vehicle registration is mandatory otherwise you’ll be facing expensive fines. Now, CA also requires motorists to pass smog inspections depending on the vehicle you are driving. Here is a link with more information about car registrations in CA.
I gifted my California car to my daughter in New York where she has reregistered it now. Do I need to return the California license plates?
Hello Darryl. You must surrender the plates either by mail or in person at your local DMV office.
I gave back my leased Mercedes Benz to the dealership when I took out a new car ( lease) from the same dealership. I now have an email from etags to renew the registration on the old vehicle.
How do I or the dealership inform that I am no longer the driver of this car?
Hello Dreena. eTags sends automated reminders about renewals and you are free unsubscribe once you are operating another vehicle.
I recently moved to California from North Carolina. Vehicle title has lien on it with Mazda Chase. Title is in both my name and my wife’s name with JTW. We are in the process of a divorce. Wife is in Virginia and obviously can’t go with me to DMV in California. How can I retitle the vehicle in California without her? Will we have to title it in California in both names first and then remove her from the title after the divorce decree is issued (assuming the car is awarded to me). Keep in mind that the NC title is with the lienholder, so we can’t just sign a transfer.
Thank you
Hello Chris. In California, you won’t be able to make changes on the title until the lien has been satisfied. You will need to contact the lien holder for more information about the status of the vehicle. You may also seek for legal advice that could help you walk through this process sagely.
I traded in 2 cars for my current car in Texas. We moved to CA a few months later. The trade in value for the 2 cars was more than the selling price of the current car so the taxable total is -$493. What amount do I put on the cost information portion of form Reg 343? Do I put the taxable total or selling price? I did not pay any sales tax in TX because the dealership owed me money after all was said and done
Hello B Bee. From the information you have provided it seems that there’s some agreement in payment between you and the dealership. You are strongly advised to contact your local DMV agency in CA for further instructions given the case.
I live in California and sold my car to Carvana LLC which is a car buying company based in Georgia. Carvana indicated that they will not accept the vehicle with the CA license plates still attached to the car, so I removed them. What do I need to do with these leftover plates? Return them to the CA DMV? Is there paperwork I need to complete?
Hello Alexa. Generally, CA license plates are not surrendered to the DMV. They stay with the vehicle when it is purchased or sold. You will need to contact your local DMV in California in case you are having a specialty license plate.
I am a California resident and in the process of selling a California registered car to *currently* a California DL/registered buyer who is in the process of moving to out of state in a week or so to New Mexico. Other than filling our the NRL and Title Transfer to DMV, are there specific steps a seller has to take when the car is being sold to a buyer who will register the car in a state other than California? I checked the CA DMV site but could not find this scenario.
Hello Sam. Here is a checklist of things you need to hand the buyer when selling a vehicle in CA:
– Title signed by you and any lien holders (if applicable) on the correct section(s).
– If the title is unavailable, you’ll need to complete:
– An Application for Duplicate or Transfer of Title (Form REG 227), that must sign by the seller and the buyer.
*A notarized Lien Satisfied/Legal Owner/Title Holder Release form to disclose any lien releases (if applicable).
– Current smog certification unless the car you’re selling is no more than 4 years old AND not powered by diesel.
– The vehicle’s odometer reading if the vehicle is less than 10 years old.
– If there’s no space for the odometer reading on the title, you will need to present a Vehicle/Vessel Title Transfer and Reassignment Form (Form REG 262) which must be signed by the seller and the buyer.
– A Bill of Sale stating the car’s change(s) in ownership if the seller’s name is not on the vehicle title.
Alternatively, you should notify the CA DMV of the transfer of vehicle ownership within 5 days after transaction.
I bought at 66 impala from a guy he is from ca car has not been registered 1993 now 2019 in az I buy car from him gone to find put je cant locate pinkslip or title same thing but he has his proof of registration and linsons plate expired bit proof he was one haw can we get title in az ca said no record and to take it to ca dmv but car dont run what can we do to get the title everyone says something different please help…
Hello David. To verify the current status of the vehicle, you will need to contact your local DMV in CA and run a VIN inspection to learn more about the status of the vehicle you are planning to register.
Hi. We paid off our vehicle two years after moving out of California. The CA DMV may have sent our title to whatever address they had on file (not our Colorado address) once the lien was removed (the lien holder did not provide our current address and we didn’t know we needed to inform the DMV of our old state that we’d moved). I started to complete the paperwork with CA DMV to get a duplicate title, but it says that if our address is different from the one they have on file, I have to go in person. That would be a long trip from Colorado! How can I get the title to our vehicle?
Hello Cheryl. You could either arrange an in-person visit to the CA DMV to update your mailing address and order a new title at once but you will still have to wait several days to receive the title. Or you could update your mailing address with the CA DMV online, then order a new title by using our online service which is easy to use and very convenient. Note that you will need to wait days or even weeks to have your details updated with the CA DMV once you change your address online. Then, you will be able to use our portal to get the new title mailed to you. If you have any questions in regards to our service, please contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to assist you on this procedure.
I bought a car from a private owner and we both sign our parts in the car title in California. I had the car smog already after I bought it and went to the DMV a week after to do all my title transfer but was denied but was told had they will sent a letter to the previous owner so I paid for registration tags but that too was sent off to the previous owner also. I been trying to at get the title to transfer into my name but got denied 3 times from a 4hr. to 6 hr waiting at dmv.
Hello Johnny. I understand you are going through an inconvenient situation. Do you know the reasons why they reject your title transfer? In the meantime, did you that eTags offers a title transfer service in California? Our user-friendly portal lets you complete this procedure without having to arrange in-person visits to the DMV. If you have any questions please contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to guide you on this procedure.
I bought my Car in CA and moved to AZ. I have registered the car in AZ and I am about to pay off the car, however, the lien holder is in CA. Is there anything I need to do in order to ensure that my title gets sent to me in AZ and not my old address in CA. Or will the DMV/ADOT system speak to each other and know that the car has moved.
Hello ANguye. Every state works differently but once the lien is satisfied the lienholder sends a release document to the state DMV, where the title is updated and then sent to you. You may also receive a copy of the lien release document from the lender as well. You will need to update your information with your local DMV agency and the lender.
I brought a car from CA that was registered there
to NC when I moved. The transmission went out and mechanics told me it’s not worth fixing. So it hasn’t run in years and has been sitting on private property. I renewed my CA plates as non operational. If I was to sell for parts or donate it what do I need to do since it is sitting out of state. I have a clear title. The car is over 20 years old.
Hello Kim. You will need to look for specific rules about selling a vehicle in TN with your local DMV agency since the car has a non-operational status.
Hi can I changed the registration name if the vehicle is being towed? Thanks
Hello Fred. From the information you have provided, you will need to contact your local DMV agency to give you further guidance on title modifications if your vehicle has been towed. You may even need to request legal advice.
I want to buy a motorhome that had a salvaged title but is currently registered in Oregon. Are there any additional steps needed because it was previously salvaged?
It has never been registered in California.
Hello Ralph. To register a salvage vehicle in CA, you will need to fill out an Application for Title or Registration Form and carry out vehicle inspections to qualify for a CA salvaged title. Here is a link with more information about salvage vehicles in CA that lists all the requirements you need before heading to the DMV.
Hello Ralph. To register a salvage vehicle in CA, you will need to fill out an Application for Title or Registration Form and carry out vehicle inspections to qualify for a CA salvaged title. Here is a link with more information about salvage vehicles in CA that lists all the requirements you need before heading to the DMV.
I just bought a used car from a private seller and the pink slip is missing a signiture. I have tried to contact the seller and no response what can i do please help?
Hello Luis. The title section must be completed by the seller and the buyer in order to consider the transaction as a valid form of transaction.
I just sold my vehicle. I live in Texas. It has a California title and is registered in Texas. Do I need to send any forms to California?
Hello Jil. Since you registered your vehicle in TX, you don’t have to report your recent transaction to the DMV in CA. What you need to do is hand the buyer a Bill of Sale to report the transaction. Here is a link with more information about title transfers in TX.
I bought a new vehicle from a dealer in Idaho but I live in California. What will I need to have when I go to dmv office to register in my name. It is a Jeep Wrangler that has a 50 state compliance equipped.
Hello Don. You will need to arrange an in-person visit to the CA DMV and submit the following items:
– The properly assigned vehicle title.
– The odometer mileage recorded if the vehicle is under 10 years old.
– Proof of smog certification.
– Payment of title transfer fees.
You should call your local CA DMV agency if you have any other specific question in regards to your new vehicle. Good luck.
I’m buying a classic car (1968) from a private seller. The car is located in Georgia and such is not required to have a title. The seller does not have a bill of sale from purchase, but does have registration. What will I need from the seller and what will I need to do to get it registered in CA upon delivery? Thank you!
Hello Mike. Classic vehicle registrations varies from state to state. In the process, you will need to prove ownership of the vehicle with your local DMV agency in California. Here is a link with further information about vintage vehicle registration in CA.
I’m buying a vehicle from California but am a resident of, and live in NJ. Does CA have temporary license plates to drive the vehicle back? Something like an out of state temporary tag? If not how do I drive the car home before I can register it in NJ?
Hello Ross. You will be able to obtain a temporary tag for a vehicle you purchase in CA through the DMV. Here is link with more information about temporary plates in CA. Once you reach your local state, you must register your vehicle.
Does the DMV cross reference and match the purchase price listed on the Title with the purchase price listed on the NRL?
Hello Jeff. The DMV will only take the price that you list on the title.
What is the appropriate way for me to gift my granddaughter my F1 50 truck, that currently has passed due tags? I’m trying not to have her incur the fees for late registration. My next question would be do I give her the truck? Or should I put down I sold it to her for $101 for example? Thank you for your help!
Hello Teri. In CA, motorists are required to pay their late registration fees prior to selling their vehicles. Unless your granddaughter will be required to cover those additional costs. At the same time, you could gift the vehicle to your granddaughter by signing over the title to her with the sections completed accordingly. Since you are gifting the vehicle to her, you will need a Bill of Sale to describe the nature of the transaction. Now, when it comes to registration renewals and title transfers in CA, you could use our online portal to take care of those procedures without having to arrange in-person appointments with the DMV. Our online service offers drivers an alternative that highlights service excellence and convenience. If you have any questions about our services or vehicle registration/title transfer rules, please contact our Customer Support or call us at 1-888-633-5332. We are glad to assist you.
. I sold a car in calif I signed over pink slip, when he left with the car I notified DMV via email. On his way home the car broke down so I am taking the car back and returning his money. How did I reregister the car?
You will need the title that you signed when selling the vehicle and get a bill of sale from the buyer back to you. Then you need to take these two documents to the DMV to perform a multiple title transfer. This will get you a new clean title.
I’m not a CA resident looking to buy a car in CA. It has an ETL that has been released. How long does it typically take to get a paper title after the ETL is released? I’ve been told it can’t be sold to out-of-state residents until a paper title exists, is this correct?
Hello Jeff. When an ELT is satisfied, a lien satisfaction will be sent electronically to the Department. There is no fixed days when it comes to this procedure but you will need to keep an eye on it. The title will either be automatically issued to the registered owner of record or to a new lienholder, if being added. If you want to sell the vehicle in another state, you will need to have a title to proof ownership of the vehicle. Every state works differently and CA uses ELT titles which may be different to other states that operate differently.
Hi ETAGS
So I sold my car last year in Feb. 2018 and lost the new owner information. I received a registration renewal letter from DVM that the car is still under my name. I went into DMV and they gave me a Notice of transfer and release of liability form to fill out but I don’t have the new owner information. What can or should I do. I don’t want to go into collection.
Hello Pang Chang. If you have a copy of the Bill of Sale, you could use it to report that you sold the vehicle, which means that the vehicle is no longer in your possession. Worst case scenario, you will need to contact your local DMV agency to work out a solution with the documents you could provide to support your case.
My tags state that my tags are due in July; CA DMV sent me a renewal notice stating that my registration is due in April. I did purchase the vehicle several months ago from a private seller
Hello Joe. You will need to contact your local DMV agency to confirm your renewal period so you don’t miss the deadline.
I bought a car in 2015 but never transferred the title into my name, the car has been sitting in my driveway and unfortunately I never registered it as PNO. So now I have years of back registration to pay as well as the title transfer. I’m not sure what to even do in this situation, because at this point I’m better off junking the car rather than fixing it up. I guess my question is, how do I go about junking this car, in regards to title transfer and registration.
Hello Kalan. Your decision whether or not to junk your vehicle depends on the value of your car. If you are concern about the total amount of money you need to pay to complete your title and registration, keep in mind that the DMV has a cap on late fees. As for car registration, you could use our online portal to verify how much you owe to the CA DMV. Our portal also offers a title transfer service for locals who purchased a CA vehicle. Back to your question, here is a checklist with the requirements you need to fulfill in order to junk your vehicle in CA. Good luck!
i sold my car in 2014, i filled out a release of liability online. in 2019 i bought the same car back, but he never registered to his name , it is still under my name he showed me the same pink slip under my name. should i get a new pink slip or just pay the fees. i have a bill of sale and the pink slip under my name. i haven’t gone to dmv.
Hello Alfonso. If the vehicle is currently under your name, it means that the DMV has no records of the transfer, keeping you as the original owner of the vehicle. Yet, you will need to double-check with the DMV before making any assumption.
I’d love some advice! I have given my car to a junkyard for scrap and am purchasing a new vehicle. I do not believe I have the title to my broken car, though it is paid off. Our registration card says a title has not been issued. I did not know to pull my license plates off the vehicle before they towed it away so I do not have that either. Is the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability Information form the correct form I need to submit to the DMV in addition to removing the car from my insurance? What do I need to do in addition to that?
Hello Dana. Since you have given your vehicle to the junkyard, you will need to report it to the DMV in your local state. Here is a link with more information on how to junk a vehicle in CA.
Hi. My daughter had bought a car in los angeles from her cousin. She drove it to Maryland where she now resides. Her cousin lives in England. Somehow she failed to get the title changed to her name. Now her cousin from England sent a form requesting a duplicate copy of the title , but the DMV is refusing to process the application and is asking my daughter to first smog the car in California. But both my daughter and the car are both in Maryland. Any help will be appreciated.
Hello Zahi. Typically, the state of CA requires vehicle owners to provide an smog certification in order to title a vehicle. Since your daughter is already living in Maryland, she may visit her local DMV agency in MD to title the vehicle by providing enough of proof of ownership such as a Bill of Sale and, most importantly, the title. Though you must contact your local DMV to ensure you are updated with all the requirements to title a vehicle in Maryland. Here is a link with more information about title transfers in Maryland.
My daughter’s registration is due June of 2019 & a smog is required. I am wanting to buy her vehicle but not if it doesn’t pass the smog as I can’t afford repairs right now & she doesn’t want to continue to pay insurance on it because she’s buying another car. I was told a smog certificate is good for 90 days so if she has it smogged 90 days before the registration is even due in June so I can be sure it will pass before transferring the title & we transfer the title within that 90 days before June, will another smog check be required when I receive the renewal in June? If so why because doesn’t her having it smogged early fulfill the smog requirement for the year it’s due? Shouldn’t it not be due again until 2021 because the registration date doesn’t change upon transfer.
Hello Mary. The seller is required to provide the buyer with a valid smog inspection certification at the time of the sale or transfer. Smog certifications are good for 90 days from the date of issuance. The inspection is not required on a transfer if a biennial smog certification was submitted to the DMV within 90 days prior to the vehicle transfer date (a vehicle inspection report may be required as a proof).
Hi there, and thanks for this post! I have a question about this section:
“In the state of California, when you buy or sell a privately owned motor vehicle, the DMV must be informed of the change of ownership by a seller within 5 days and by a buyer within 10 days of the sale. The title must then be fully transferred by the buyer within 30 days or penalties could be assessed.”
This makes it sound like there are two steps for the buyer: (1) inform the DMV about the purchase within 10 days of sale. (2) Transfer the title within 30 days.
I haven’t been able to find any information about how to perform step (1). Could you tell me how I inform the DMV about the purchase of sale?
Note that I have plans to update the title with a DMV appointment, but this will be 20 days after the sale.
Hello Jake. When you title a vehicle in California you are simultaneously reporting the transaction by presenting the title completed by the seller and you. Did you know that eTags offers online title transfers in the state of California? Our portal offers a service that is fast, easy to use, and, more importantly, convenient. You don’t need to arrange an in-person visit as you can do it from home. Note that our California service only applies to vehicles that have already been titled in California. If you have any other question about our online service, feel free to email our Customer Support or call us at 1-800-633-5332. We are glad to assist you on this process.
What happens when you sell a fifth wheel to someone and you lose the records from the sell to them and receive a renewal notice several months later for it.
Hello Mike. The new owner might not have registered the vehicle yet. You will need to contact the DMV and report the transaction so they update their information.
Do I have to pay sales tax if I want to be added to the title of a car that is owned by some one else. I am not a family member of the current car owner. I live in California.
Hello al. The CA DMV may require you to treat your request as a title transfer procedure, but you will need to contact your local CA DMV agency for more information about fees exemptions before making any assumption.
Hi there, I’m looking at purchasing an old motorcycle that has been off the road a long time as a project. The VIN for the frame and motor came up clean for salvage and theft, however the DMV has a record of it as being on Non Operational Status. There are no papers with the motorcycle, and the seller is not the registered owner for the non op. Will it be possible to title and register this vehicle with a statement of facts, or is this going to be impossible?
Hello ER. You will need to contact the DMV for more information about the status of the vehicle. They will also give you more guidance on what you need to do given the circumstances. Good luck.
I purchased a vehicle from a personal seller that was ‘helping’ sell the vehicle for the original owners. I’m not sure of their relationship but the title, registration, and smog all matched up, the local police was called to check if the vehicle was stolen, and everything was in the clear. I went to the California DMV a couple days later and was denied transfer of title because I was missing the Reg 262 form, which I was unaware of. I also made the mistake of not getting a bill of sale from either the owners on the title and even the personal seller. Well I tried reaching out to the personal seller in which he ignored my phone calls and text messages, I tried reaching out to the owners on the title through Facebook, I mailed the Reg 262 forms to the original owners on the title, and the forms were returned. The owners must have moved… so I don’t know what my next step would be, it had been about 2-3 weeks since purchasing the vehicle.
Hello Joey. If you have any other proof that you purchased the vehicle it would make it easier for you. Otherwise you will need to contact your local CA DMV agency to find out what steps you need to take to complete this procedure given the circumstances.
i am moving out of california 4months after my registration with smog is due. can i avoid the smog for a temporary registration?
Hello Nathan. Smog inspections are mandatory in California, and they are required to be updated in order to process a registration renewal. Please contact your local DMV for more information about temporary registration.
My ex gave me 1992 fifth wheel for a gift.well I went a head and sold it for a dollar because I can’t keep it.it has a salvage title on it I haven’t had time to put it in my name what do I do
Hello Susan. When it comes to salvage titles, you will need to contact the CA DMV for more information about the status of your vehicle and how to handle salvage titles in your county.
Hello,
So I just bought a car off my cousin, and when I went to do the transfer and pay the fees they asked me for a smog inspection, she had it smogged back in Oct. 2017 when she payed the registration renewal, can I present that certificate or do I have to get a new inspection myself?
Hello Magdalena. Check the smog certification (document given by the seller) as it should indicate whether you need to go through another inspection. Otherwise, you are advised to contact your local DMV for more information.
Hi, I bought a car 16 days ago, and yet to transfer the title. I.e. I have crossed ten days limit. What do I need to do now? Do I need to get Buyer to change date of sale and sign at the place of change? Or is there anything else?
Also, the Seller and I signed on the front and back of the title, and we entered date, amount and other details there. Do I still need a bill of sale?
Hello Rajul. You have 10 days to report the change of ownership for a vehicle you bought with the DMV. Here are the basic items you need to provide depending on the vehicle you bought:
Filled certificate of title
Smog Certification
Odometer mileage reading
Bill of Sale (If you were required to use REG 262 to report the odometer mileage reading)
Title transfer fees
By the way, did you know that eTags offers online title transfers for drivers in California? All you need to do is visit our portal and follow the easy steps to complete this procedure within minutes. Yet this service applies to cars that were bought in California and doesn’t apply to out-of-state vehicles.
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Support or call us at at 1-800-633-5332.
hi etags,
My vehicle was totaled and I released the vehicle to my insurance company for a sum of money and sent them a release of title.
In the mail I have received 1. Notice of Intent to Suspend and 2. DMV Renewal form.
In response to the Intent to Suspend, I filed a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form. Will this satisfy the State even though my car apparently wasn’t registered with an insurance co. (it actually was, my former insurance never notified the state).
Also, is it necessary to file $21 towards a Planned Nonoperational status for the DMV Renewal letter if I have already filed the Transfer/Release of liability form?
Thanks!
Hello Matt. The DMV only requires that a release of liability be submitted using the date of transfer. No fees or PNO designation is required on your part.
hello etag!
My car was totaled, and I transferred the title to the instance company for the value of the car. I have since recieved 2 DMV letters: one for a renewal of the title, and another Notice of Intent to Suspend.
I know that I need to submit a Notice of Transfer to take care of the Intent to Suspend letter. In terms of title renewal, one of the options is to submit $21 for a Planned Non Operation (PNO) designation. I am wondering if the PNO is necessary if I already submit the Notice of Transfer?
Thanks!
Hello Matt. The DMV only requires that a release of liability be submitted using the date of transfer. No fees or PNO designation is required on your part.
I bought a 2001 Tahoe from a private seller in Arkansas, who claimed to have bought and driven vehicle from California. Seller is not listed on title, but was able to provide Title and registration paperwork. All paperwork has original owners name and information, but ownership has gone thru 2 different entities without a title transfer (dealership to dealership sale).
I live in Texas. Seller is not being helpful. What do I do??
Hello Brandon. You need to title the vehicle before selling it to another buyer. If you don’t title the vehicle, then the vehicle is not legally yours.
I’m moving from Oregon to California in a few months. I currently have a car registered in my business name in Oregon. When I get to California with car will I have to pay any tax on the car when I register it in California?
You will need to visit your local DMV in California and submit proof of ownership, smog inspection certificate, proof of valid auto insurance, completed form REG 343 (Application for title or registration), and pay registration, title, and fees and taxes depending on your vehicle. Here’s a link with more information about vehicle registration in CA.
So I purchased a vehicle that does not run. They want a smog certificate to get the title in my name. How can i do that if its not operational. Is there another way to get the title in my name without a sog certificate since it doesnt run?
Hello Daniel. You are required to title, but not registered, a vehicle that is not operational in California. Yet, California requires residents to pass an smog inspection in order to complete the title procedure. Contact your local DMV for more information about Smog Inspections services in your area.
Hi. Recently I bought a lien car from a private owner without smog. The previous owner told me that he did not have smog after signing the documentation.
The car does not pass the smog test and to be able to pass it it is necessary to repair some defect.
Can I claim some kind of responsibility for the previous owner?
Is it legal for a private owner to sell the car without going through the smog?
Thank you very much!!
Hello Manu. The seller is free to sell the vehicle but it’s up to you to ask the seller to pass the smog test on the vehicle they try to sell or getting that responsibility on your own and purchase the car. Either way, whatever happens to the car stays with the owner of the vehicle so it is imperative that you decide whether the seller should get the smog certification before selling it to you or not.
Hi!
I’m selling my car in California, but have moved back to England. I have a buyer, but have now realised that I incorrectly dated my title transfer documents when I left, not realising the buyer would have 10 days to register the car. I am selling the car now (August 2018), but I dated the form when I left for May 2018. What shall I do? Can I get someone to amend the document or do I need a new one? And if I need a new one how will I do that from England?
Please help!
Hello Mary. You don’t need to make more amendments nor arrange a visit to the DMV, especially when you are in England. Regardless of your mistake, you can always use our portal to complete the title transfer online. We offer an online service that helps you complete a transfer of ownership in a fast and simple way.
Decided to buy out my leased vehicle to sell it privately. Paid off the lease and what was owed on the car and was mailed the signed title by the lien holder (Audi) six days ago. Did not submit to CA DMV. I have a deal in place for a private sale. How do I best proceed in transferring to new owner using REG 227?
Hello Mike. First, you are advised to title the vehicle before selling it to a third party. Is the lien holder (Audi) located in the State of California? If so, we invite you to use our online portal to transfer the title into your name without having to make a trip to the CA DMV.
I bought a car and a friend wanted to buy it. Before that I tried to smog it and it wouldn’t pass the smog. I paid the registration fees but didn’t have the sticker cus it wasn’t able to pass smog. My ex friend took it to Nevada and hasn’t paid me a cent for the car. Can they register it if it has an incomplete registration? Also can I put a lein on it so they can’t sell it? Until I take them to court to get the car back
You need to contact the DMV for more information.
I live in Oregon. I am buying a fire engine from a very small volunteer fire department in California. I can’t find anything on the California DMV website about how I can get a trip permit to drive it to Oregon. What should I do? I will be grateful for any advice,
Hello Tom! Here’s a link with more information about out-of-state trips to Oregon. Oregon allow drivers to use a valid trip permit from other state to drive into Oregon. Just be sure you keep a proof of valid insurance handy.
I sold a vehicle last year and signed the title over as well as completed the release of liability through the dmv. The new owner never registered the vehicle under his name and I found out he recently re registered the vehicle under my name through AAA. Is that illegal? If so, how can I go about the legal process to have the current owner get charged?
Hello B. It could be that he renew the registration that was already under your name, which means that he hasn’t registered yet. What you need to do is cancel the registration and provide the necessary paperwork to let the DMV know that you actually sold the vehicle to the other person.
Hi I currently live In California, my grandmother passed away but she left me the car and pink slip but I have no idea how to go about registering it, or transferring the title theirs no liens or anything but what’s the process of you inherited the vehicle from the deceased
Once you inherited a vehicle in California, you’ll need to transfer the title of the vehicle into your name within 10 days of receiving the car. You are required to provide the pink slip, an odometer reading disclosure, smog certification if required, Affidavit for Transfer without Probate, and pay your title transfer fees in person. However, eTags offers an online service that helps you take care of your title transfer fast and easy. If you have any other question in regard to our service please call us at 1-800-633-5332 or send us an email at support@eTags.com. We are here to help you complete this mandatory procedure.
My daughter is in the military – her unit has moved to California temporarily- about 8-9 months ; but her car was bought and registered in Washington and she has 11 mos left on the registration there. Does she have to transfer over to California?
Hello Katty. Since your daughter has been stationed out of state, and assuming that she is a WA resident, you might be eligible for a vehicle license fee exemption. You are strongly advised to contact your local CA DMV agency for more information about motorists with military status.
My nephew was visiting California from Colorado when his car broke down. He had purchased the vehicle from someone in Colorado, had a written bill of sale from the seller and the pink slip. However, he had never fully registered the vehicle in his name. He got the car running and intended to go back to Colorado, when it broke down again. Having no money, he was doing his best to make repairs, but it was taking time, he was apparently in the state too long and was confronted by the police. He had his car impounded with most of his possessions in it. He came to me and I agreed to get his car out of impound and he could pay me back. Unfortunately, he could not get the car out of impound without being the registered owner. We had to go to the DMV and get the paperwork to transfer the car to my name so I could get it out of impound. Then we were told the car couldn’t be fully registered to me until it had a smog test and was verified by a DMV employee or a police officer. Long story, short, the car is not yet running and I need to get it out of my name and no longer my responsibility, so my nephew can take it wherever and get it running, registered in his name etc. How can I do that when the vehicle cannot be fully registered to me yet? I have the “incomplete application,” the pink slip signed by the original owner and then signed by my nephew and the vehicle transfer form. Please help. I really need to get this done soon. Thank you.
Hello Cindy. Since your nephew is the original owner of the vehicle and he has the pink slip signed by him and the previous owner, it would be much easier to let your nephew title the vehicle himself. He seems to have the right documentation to complete the transfer. He is responsible for registering and title the vehicle alone. All he needs to do is visit the DMV in CO and complete the registration and title transfer. The car is not register in your name as you haven’t provided the required documentation anyway.
Hello, kind of a complex question, or hopefully not. A company purchased a vintage Vespa in September of 2017, but did not complete the transfer of ownership. They have the scooter in their possession, and I want to purchase the scooter from the company. What I have for documentation:
Typed bill of sale, signed and dated September 2017
CA title, signed and dated September 2017 to release vehicle (the odometer reading is filled in, but the seller did not sign the mileage section of the title)
Questions:
Do I have to submit the bill of sale? The price on it is a lot higher than what I’ve agreed to pay, and want to pay sales taxes only on my purchase amount.
Can I transfer title if the seller did not sign the mileage statement?
I assume there will be back registration fees, as the title shows the scooter has a registration expiration date of 2010, but an issue date from 2015. Any idea what that may add up to?
Thanks for any help,
Patrick
Hello Patrick. Considering that the company did not complete the title transfer, you should submit a bill of sale that proves the transfer of ownership from the first seller to the company, and from the company to you. Of course, both you and the seller must sign the odometer mileage to complete the transfer. Did you know that eTags offer title transfer services online? It’s fast and easy to navigate so don’t hesitate to contact at 1-800-633-5332 or send us an email at support@eTags.com. We are here to help you complete this procedure without any complications.
Hi I bought a car a few months ago and i went on vacation for a few months after I forgot to transfer the title to my name before I left. I live in California, is there gonna be additonal fee’s when i try and register it, and is there gonna be any problems registering it?
Hello Simon. It all depends on how long you’ve been out on vacation. The CA DMV requires residents to title and register their vehicles within 10 days after purchase to avoid penalties. It also depends on whether your bought your car from a dealership or private party. As you need to complete your title transfer before hitting the road, feel free to contact us at 1-800-633-5332 or send us an email at support@eTags.com to guide through this process without any complications. We also invite you to try our online vehicle title transfer tool, which is an easier and hassle-free way of titling your vehicle in California.
I bought a scooter from a guy who said he “lost the title” and didn’t have it. He had all of his information filled in for the bill of sale and on the form 227 for the Duplicate of title and transfer for California. He also have plates and they were registered until August of 2019. Then when I went to the DMV in California they said I owed $455???? And that it had not been registered since August of 2016??? I only paid $800 for the scooter and now I have to pay 50% of the value of the scooter to register it? It seems the guy was shady on the registration but somehow got this August 2019 sticker. What should I do???? Thanks.
John
Hello John. It seems that you were involved in a situation that needs to be examined with more information in hand. You should contact your DMV to ask more information about your case since they hold all the records. In fact, that amount is the common registration fee people pay to register their vehicle.
Hello a friend from california brought her car to ohio. When she decided to go back she let me purchase the car from her. When she got back to california she sent the title however i messed up on a part of it. The BMV wont accept the title and said i need a new one. Since she signed it over bit i couldnt complete the transfer…who is owner of the car. Also how do i get a new copy of the title so i can properly file. Also she no longer lives in California so we are not sure what to do. Thanks.
Hello Tiffany. You are required to contact your local DMV for the specific requirements since you haven’t transfer the title into your name. Normally, the seller needs to submit a certificate of title notify the DMV about the change of ownership. You need to submit a certificate of title as a strict part of the procedure. If you can reach out to her, let her now about your case so she could request a new certificate of title so you could complete this procedure asap.
Hi, I recently buy a car but the owner just signed the certificate of title once, on the signature of the registered owner, is that enough to change the title to my name or do I need to go to the seller so he signs everything
Hello Mel. Buyers need to make sure the Certificate of Title is completed and signed by both, the seller and the owner. At the same time you need to provide smog certification (unless your vehicle is exempt), and provide the odometer mileage reading which must be signed by you and the seller as well. For more information about this procedure, contact us at 1-800-633-5332 or send us an email at support@eTags.com. We are to help you complete your title transfer.
I’m a California resident who purchased a vehicle with a PA state title yet it had CA tags, I went in today to do a title transfer, they took the old title and gave me new registration in my name. My question is when and if I will I receive my title?
Hi Joe. Who did you complete the title transfer with? Your best option would be to contact them regarding when you might receive it. We also have numerous resources available to help you navigate the CA title transfer process which can be viewed here.
I completed it with the dmv in San Marcos. If the car is registered in my name then the title should be in my name by this point correct?.. the Dmv was not very informative. Thank you
Hello Jose. Registration and titling are both different processes. It depends on what documents you submitted to the CA DMV. It may be that you registered your car but you still haven’t transferred title documentation into your name. For more information about this procedure, contact us at 1-800-633-5332 or send us an email at support@eTags.com. We are here to help.
I sold a vehicle to out of state colorado, signed the title over, did the release of liability (twice as I didn’t receive an email first time) and the new owner called and said he messed up title and needs another one. He is saying I have to go to california dmv and ask for one etc. is that right or should he be able to now get since I signed the title over and I did release of liability? The title is fine with the exception he whited out his name he wrote in because he decided not to have in a trust. Colorado wouldn’t take the white out and says they need a new title.
This is Julie, I live in California.
Hey Julie. Sounds like his fault. Assuming the transaction was completed and the car is fully in his name, this doesn’t seem like your problem. For peace of mind, it is recommended to contact the California DMV directly just to be sure.
My Mother would like to gift me a one year old Toyota truck that is current on registration, smog and insurance in her name in the state of CA. I live in Nevada. I am currently injured and cannot drive. Can my Son pick up the vehicle & title to bring back to Nevada so I can register, transfer title & insure?
My son will be relocating to California from Pennsylvania. I will be gifting him one of our cars that is paid in full. It is currently in my name, insured on my policy. Registered in PA with a current inspection. Would it be better to transfer the ownership to him here in PA before he relocates to CA? What are the steps we should take for title transfer, insurance, registration, inspections (required in PA), plates, etc. What do we need to do, if anything, for the CA smog requirements (totally unfamiliar with this…)??
My question above assumes my son will keep the car when he relocates to CA. However, if we/he decided to sell the car instead – would we be better off:
a.) Selling it in PA without even transferring to him and gift him the proceeds towards a new car when he gets to CA
b.) Gift it to him in PA and let him sell it in PA (we would have to pay for all the transfer costs?)
c.) Gift it to him in PA, and transfer everything over from me in PA to him in CA and then he would sell it in CA (he thinks he can get more for his car in CA)
d.) Gift it to him once he gets to CA (is this even an option?)
Is there any financial dis/advantage to a vs b vs c vs d?
Thank you!
Hello Sue. Whether your son is located in PA or CA, the procedure is almost the same as long as he provides the right documentation. You need to contact your local DMV to stay current with the local registration and title
transfer requirements that the new owner of the vehicle (son) needs to comply with.
For example, click here for more information about vehicle registrations in California.
At the same time, the purpose of the Smog Check inspection is designed to identify cars that are producing excess emissions so they can be repaired to meet statewide standards.
For more information about gifting a vehicle in California, click here to learn more about the requirements.
If you son decides to transfer the title in California, know that eTags offers California vehicle title transfers online. It’s fast, easy, and hassle free.
Hello, I live in California and would like to go up to Washington state and purchase a vehicle from a dealership up there on a loan. Is this a pretty simple process? Not really sure how it works with the loan company.
Hello Dustin. You could get approved but it all depends on your lenders and the vehicle you want to buy. Contact your dealership to find out more about getting a car through a loan.
Hi There,
I recently moved to Los Angeles from NYC. I brought my 1972 Honda CB350 with me. It’s still registered in the state of NY and I still have the NY plates however it’s not being driven here. I’ve cancelled the insurance as it’s parked in a private garage. I tried to get an affidavit of non use however was unable to complete this action on the CA DMV site.
I’m guessing because the bike is registered in NY and not CA. I want to sell the bike in the coming couple of months and am wondering what the appropriate course of action is here. Do I need to register the bike in CA first? What will that cost me and what is the process? If I’m not planning on using the bike before selling it, do I even need to register it in CA to be able to sell it here? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Hello Mei-Ling. In California, there are strict rules about vehicle registration and that also applies to buying vehicles from other states. The car needs to meet the minimum smog and other requirements under registration. Since you are a resident of California you need to register your vehicle before selling it. It’s a process that could be complicated so contact your local DMV for information about your vehicle requirements.
My son is serving in active military in North Carolina (while retaining his California residency/hometown). He brought his car registered in California to North Carolina while serving there. He will be done with the service soon. Can he sell his car to another fellow serviceman; who also happens to be a California resident too; and transfer the title of the car under California DMV rule and regulations ? The car has been under temporary exempt from smog check certificate for the last two years due to its being out of state while serving in military. I would like to know how to sell transfer the title/ownership to another Californian while they are both and the car is physically out of state like this. Can he uses ETags.com on line service to do this. Any detail instructions, forms to be filled out for this matter is very much appreciated.
Thank you.
A decent car that broke down is at a repair shop because the motor died completely. It cannot be repair and may have pieces missing. The owner wants to sell it as-is to a non-family member who will tow it from the shop to the new location. The vehicle obviously cannot be operated and no smog test is possible though it appears to be required somehow by the DMV (towards what paper??). Assume the old smog test is over 60-90 days. The vehicle is still registered with CA DMV as it was and has the registered plates.
It’s not clear the process to sell the vehicle. Would a Certificate of Non Operation allow the “move” of the auto?? Is a Planned Non Operation PNO required?? If a PNO required first, but then that means it can’t be moved at all?? Is a smog test really required in any situation and what to do with no engine?? Smog is required for a PNO. or is there some way around it (like not towing but putting it on a flatbed “towing” truck. Does the tower/towing vehicle need papers or can a private person move it on a flatbed?? Would a one-time use permit work and what is required to get that besides DMV fees.??
Hello MB. Whether the vehicle cannot be operated, the owner could technically sell it. The owner should contact the California DMV to find out about the steps he/she should take to register a vehicle that cannot be operated. Moving on, note that smog test is a strict procedure in California.
Good morning, I was given a vehicle, I guess you can say as a gift. During the transfer process I decided not to go through with completing the forms and claiming the vehicle due to too many complications with the car so I never signed anything or paid fees to the DMV. Although I do believe the person who gave me the car signed her proportion and turned it in. The car was towed a few months back and now I’m being harassed by a collection agency. So my question is am I liable for the car and payments? Would there be anyway out of this mess? Please help and Thank you
Hello Kyle. It depends on the procedures that you both made. You mentioned that you did not complete the transfer but the person who gifted you the car did it. He probably notified the DMV about the transfer and has filed proving documents. You are advised to contact your local DMV about your case.
My son is serving in active military duty in North Carolina. He brought his California registered car there to use while on duty there. Can he sell his car to a fellow serviceman who is also a Californian who happens to serve in North Carolina too. They are both considered as California hometown and have California driver license. The issue here is how to transfer the title of the car while it is physically out of state and smog check was temporarily exempt. The car tag and registration is current. Please help explain what paperwork needs to be done, or can it be done on line thru Etags.com ? Thank you much
Hi Joe. Yes, your son can complete this transaction through our California Title Transfer tool since the car will remain registered in the state of California.
However, it is important to note, if he begins the title transfer and were find that they are not exempt either because the exemption expired or is disqualified, they will not be able to complete the transfer. If this were the case, he could not be refunded unless he were to visit a CA DMV location in person and also would not be able to complete the transfer without also going to a CA smog check location in person for inspection.
Assuming the exemption is still valid and the aforementioned scenario is not the case, have your son select the “Purchase/Sale” option, enter the vehicle information, and our easy-to-use form will help you navigate the process to complete the transaction.
Hello! I have such a weird situation
My husband and I purchased a car in 2014. We have the transfer signed and everything. I went to the DMV, notified them. They stated they couldn’t complete the transfer until I get the smog from the previous owner. So they gave me back the forms and I didn’t pay the transfer fee or tax due. I contacted the previous owner and he said the smog certificate expired the day before! (Which I believe was a lie). I ended up smogging the car myself a couple months later and sent to the DMV. My husband said he would take care of the rest but apparently he never did. I have a DMV appointment, and am expecting to pay the transfer fee, tax, penalty, and registration fees. Also I need to point out the engine light has been on for two years. We did drive the car but stopped as of last year because we can’t get it to pass smog. So it’s no longer insured either but we had it insured the whole time we drove it. Will we get in trouble for having driven it even though the transfer was never processed? Also will I run into problems trying to register it at the DMV if I can’t get it to pass smog again and it’s no longer insured?
Also if I plan on selling the car to a junk place for parts after I transfer it, do I need to still continue getting it registered or non-operationable?
You will need to register your vehicle even if you decide not to use it.
Hello Jennifer. Apart from not transferring the title on your vehicle, note that your car is no longer registered, nor insured. If you get caught driving a car without those requirements, expect to be liable for fines and other penalties. Know that getting a vehicle title serves as a protection for you too. If you would like to title transfer your vehicle online, click here. It’s fast, easy, and hassle free.
My daughter recently moved to California from Ohio. The car she is driving is still titled in Ohio under her father’s name. What do we need to do to transfer title to her and what fees would we be looking at for her to get the car registered in California. Her father owns the car outright. Also what fees are associated with the smog test. Similar test in Ohio is free. Thank you!
Hello Amy! Title transfers between family members need to fill the following documents: Notice Release of Liability, Certificate of Title, odometer disclosure, statement of facts, and $15 transfer fees. Title transfers between family members do not need to obtain smog test nor pay usage taxes. California drivers can now seamlessly transfer vehicle titles online with our title transfer tool.
The title transfer tool only seems to apply if you have a CA title. We are trying to transfer an Ohio titled car to our daughter who now lives in CA. The car is still titled and registered in Ohio. How do we go about this transfer?
Hello Annie. Our portal offers title transfers to users whose vehicles are currently titled in California. Your daughter must visit her local CA DMV to title the vehicle on her name.
I am planning to buy a car from a friend. The registration for the car is valid till July 2018. What are the charges I would have to buy when transferring it to my name?
It all depends on the type of vehicle you are buying. Typically, they charge a $15 fee for title transfer but you also have to pay tax fees. Contact your local DMV to find out more about your specific vehicle.
Hi I bought a car from a tow yard and the man did not let me test drive it. I drove it home and every light turned on. It’s a Lein sale. I cannot afford to fix this car. How do I sell it to a mechanic as is?? I cannot afford to lift the Lein.
Hello Heaven. a good tip for the future is to always test drive a vehicle before you purchase. Now if you want to sell your car, contact the lienholder to see whether you can sell your vehicle.
Hello,
My step brother who has since disappeared and I cannot reach, owes me money. He was given a car as payment for a job he did last year for one of his customers (I have no idea what his customers name is.) My step brother has the title and bill of sale for the vehicle, but he never got around to transferring it into his name before gifting it to me. At the time, he thought it would just be easier to transfer it directly into my name and skip him as owner completely. So my question is, how do I transfer this vehicle into my name without having the current legal owners contact information? It’s a piece of crap older vehicle that is just taking up space in my driveway, the tags are expired & I just want to sell it to try and recoup a small portion of what my step brother owes me.
Hello Jennifer. If you receive incomplete or incorrect evidence of ownership on your gifted vehicle, you need to contact your local DMV to explain your case and try to have as much documentation as possible. There are some transfer fees and documents that you need to complete before selling your car. Try to be informed about your particular situation before making any decision.
How do you trade straight across pink slips? Do you have to pay sales tax? In California
Hello Ed. When you trade vehicles with a non-family member in California, you pay sales taxes on the net amount of your vehicle. Contact your local DMV for information about your vehicle and trading requirements.
Hello there,
I recently relocated to Ca from NY and am looking to register my vehicle. My husband and my name are both on the car. Do we both need to be present to register the vehicle? It’s unlikely that we can work this with our schedules, and I’d like to register it myself.
Hello Em. You can always print out your application for registration and fill the section where owners are added with your name and signature. One of you could take care of it and it should be no problem. All other documents to proof your validation and identity should be included as well. Please contact CA DMV for further information about multiple owners beforehand.
Hey there ive been quite irresponsible, i bought a car in June of 2015 and haven’t transferred the title to my name or registered the vehicle it still has 2016 tags i know i owe some fees but what do you think im facing exactly and what steps should i take im very clueless
Hello Richard. You are advised to contact your local DMV ASAP and find out more about your outstanding fees. Proceed to register your vehicle because driving an unregistered vehicle is against the law and it could be even more expensive for you.
My mom just gifted me her car and sent it from CA to NY before transferring the title to my name. Now I’m trying to get it registered in NY, but I need to get the title transferred. I’ve filled out the NRL, what else do I need to do to get a copy of the title with my name on it so I can register the car here?
Hello Max. In California, when someone gifts you a vehicle, the person who is gifting the vehicle must sign over the title to you apart from other documents. Please, check on your local (NY) DMV about vehicle registration as different rules applies form state to state.
My younger brother purchased a car from a private seller but did not get the titled sign by the seller. The seller is not cooperating. The car sold has many issues that he was not aware of and he payed cash for it. what can we do ? We live in California. PLEASE HELP ?
DMV advices people not to purchase a vehicle from an individual unless he or she can hand you the title right then. California rules are specific and you may need some legal advice on this particular matter. Click here for more information.
I just got a car in a trade but the title has already been filled out and the seller is in jail, how am I suppose to change the ownership of the car
Hi Jacob! If the title has been filled out and signed by both parties then you should notify the change of ownership to your local DMV. it is important that you contact your local DMV for legal cases like yours.
Hi there, I recently moved to Illinois, and I want to sell my 1992 toyota paseo California regestered car.
What do I need to do to sell to an Illinois resident? Thank you.
Hey Jason. First step would be to list the car for sale. Once you are ready to transact, we recommend contacting your local DMV for policies and procedures specific to Illinois.
I sold my car the end of September 2017. Since its my first time ever selling a car, I didnt know I had to do NRL, or anything else. But I received a parking ticket, then later was advised of steps to do after selling the vehicle. So I submitted an NRL in Dec. with the new buyers information unknown. How do I Know if the NRL was submitted properly? Or if the title for ownership has changed, I handed over my title with signature on it. Is there a way to search for this information?
Hey Cory. The DMV does not provide public records for release of liabilities. You will need to contact DMV directly to ask if the document is on file with the motor vehicle department. In the future, it is always recommended to keep a copy of the NRL for your records.
Hi! I have purchased a vehicle in VA, and recently moved to California.
I obtained my CA license, but I still have my vehicle registered and titled in VA. I wouod like to sell this out of state registered vehicle for privately (with title in my name from VA) to a friend.
I just passed the smog check for CA as well.
I would like to avoid the hassle (solely because of this sale) obtaining a new CA title in my name and then transfer this title to my friend when I sell it to him.
Can I complete the sale with my VA title and VA registration to my friend that would then register and title it here in California? Car has passed CA smog check.
How is the procedure in this case? Do I need to notify VA dmv? Send them back my plates? Thank you!
Hey Grega. You can sell your out of state vehicle without titling it in California. The new owner will have the burden of titling and registering it in CA. You will need to contact VA to find out if they need to be notified of the sale and have the plates returned as it varies state to state.
I am wondering if anyone knows if there is a way to lookup online to find out if a vehicle has been transferred out of a previous owners name for Ca? I sold my vehicle and mailed in notice NRL but I just received a citation in the mail well after the fact the person should have transferred the vehicle into their name. Thanks for any help!
There is no public data base that you can look up to see if your notice of release ability has been filed. You can contact the DMV directly and they can answer yes or no questions as to if the vehicle is still currently in your name, or if the release has been recorded. It is always recommended to keep copies of the release of liability in case you receive tickets. You can always mail your proof to the tag agency.
Hello there! My dad recently gifted my husband and I his car back in July and gave us his pink slip with everything signed. He did the release of liability form and then my husband said he would take care of our part by going to the dmv with the pink slip to transfer ownership. Well my husband evidently never did that and forgot about it, now it’s december and I want to get it taken care of. Since it’s been way more than 10 days what kind of penalties do you think I’ll be facing? Also when I go do I need to submit a statement of facts form as well since it was a gift from a family member? Thanks!
Hey Cathryn. The state of CA allows 30 days from the day the vehicle was gifted to you to post transfer fees without penalty. After the 30 days there is a $15 transfer penalty. You will need a completed statement of facts signed by either the old owner or new owner for the use tax exemption and smog exemptions that are allotted to family transfers.
Someone is selling their RV and have the title, which was signed by the seller who they bought it from, but they never transferred the title to their name. They do not have a bill of sale. Can they sell it to me?
Hey Tim. If they can provide a signed pink slip for you, you will need a bill of sale from the people you are purchasing it from. This is considered a multiple transfer and costs a $15 transfer fee at the time of the transfer.
I have a question. I paid off my friends Jeep, it’s been a few years now I’m trying to get a hold of him to transfer the car over to my name and I can’t find him. Can I request the title? Or what can I do? I’ve tried calling emailing and texting him with no result. It’s been about 3 yrs. What’s my best option? Thanks.
Also on the above question he said he had an electronic title. Thanks.
Hey Juan. Only the registered vehicle owner can request a certificate of title. If you are unable to obtain any releasing signatures or certificate of title you will need to consult with a DMV representative as to what your options might be.
hello, i recently moved out of California to new jersey. i traded my California car in and purchased a new car. the dealer allowed me to take my California plates with me. I’ve searched google on what to do next in regards to the license plates. i have them in my trunk and wanted to know would there be a penalty if i kept them or where do i surrender them back to. any help would be greatly appreciated.
Hey John. There is no penalty for not surrendering license plates to the CA DMV. You can destroy them or surrender them to your local DMV office.
Hello, eTags – I have a question. I recently sold an old car (that still operates) to an auto recycling yard, which they came and picked up. The guy gave me a few forms to sign on a clipboard, including a Bill of Sale form, which I signed of course; but the form was placed on top of a Statement of Facts form, and the way the forms were placed, I inadvertently signed the SOF as well, without anything else on that form filled in, and I didn’t realize what it was until afterwards. Why would they have that form there, since they’re a junk yard anyway, and can anything negative come from this for me? Thank you
Hey Jackie. If the junkyard’s policy requires you to sign a statement of facts then it’s mostly likely required by the DMV for the car junking process. The form is a multi-purpose form with numerous applications, for example certain smog and tax exemptions.
Good day, I will be purchasing a used vehicle privately today. I am in the military and will be registering in my home of record NY. My question is can I drive this vehicle with no plates back to my home?
The CA DMV offers a one way trip permit. Contact the DMV at 800-777-0133 for more information.
Can I drive a vehicle home with no plates on it?
The CA DMV offers a one way trip permit. Contact the DMV at 800-777-0133 for more information.
E tags.
18 years ago my ex bro in law took a pop up trailer to his property as a favor to me. He used it on his property whicheck is good.
When I asked him to either take ownership and sign the pink slip, he took the release of liability and never turned it in. Being he was my bro in law I trusted him. A few years later I asked him if he mailed in the release form and now he has no recollection that we signed the release.
I believe he used the chassis and built a hauling trailer without telling me.
So. What are my options if he won’t sign the release?
The release of liability is strictly for the seller. You can download and complete one with the original date of sale and submit to the DMV at anytime.
I moved to California earlier this year from Maryland and did not transfer my vehicle title to California, because I was not sure I would become a permanent resident of California or move back to Maryland. I bought a new car and put the old car up for sale. I recently sold the old car, which is titled and registered in Maryland, to a CA resident. I’m wondering what I need to do to be clear with both the MVA and DMV as far as transferring and releasing liability, and reporting the sale. Thanks in advance.
Hey Danna. We may only offer insight to CA DMV regulations.
You will need to (1) sign the Maryland title’s release of interest section (2) include the mileage if within 10 model years and (3) sign for the odometer reading. You then may submit a CA release of liability to the DMV. The new owner will need a smog and vehicle verification (done at the DMV) to complete the transfer to CA.
So I am trying to sell a car that my dad gave to me. I have not yet transferred the title into my name. I do have the title with his signature on it. What are the other documents I need to complete this transaction? Thanks in advance.
Hey Chad. You will need the original signed title along with a bill of sale reg 262. The bill of sale will be signed by you and the new owner and is considered a multiple transfer.
I’m selling my company truck which is under my companies name on the title (pink slip) do I sign my personal name or company name?
The proper way to sign on behalf of a company is by printing the company’s name. Write the “by” and sign your name and print your title under the signature.
We have an old car we are trying to either donate or scrap and we have found out that although it is registered to us, the title was not changed over. We have the pink slip detailing the transfer from the previous owner, to the auction house, to the dealership, however we are not the title holders. What should we do? We need that car out ASAP!
In order to be considered a registered owner the title transfer would have to have been completed. Any titling documents in your possession will need to be handed over to the new owner along with a bill of sale from you to them. Be sure to submit a release of liability once the vehicle is no longer in your possession.
Bought a car from a private seller, was suppose to have it smogged but never did. Was recently involved in a car accident. What will happen next?
If the vehicle sustained enough damage to be considered “salvaged” by your insurance company, they should provide you with instructions. Any vehicles that are deemed junked or salvage must handled at your local DMV field office.
I purchased a 55 Chevy pickup in 1990 for parts, it was just a shell, for $350. I have a title signed off on the front by the registered owner and a person on the back that bought it and never processed the transfer. I also have a hand written bill of sale from this person on the back but I never processed the transfer either. I never did anything with the truck until now, I’d like to start the project.
How do I go about getting a title for this vehicle after all of these years?
Hey Rod. This transaction is considered to be an “unavailable record”. The DMV will require all titling documents and bill of sale to determine the chain of ownership. The additional steps to register are as follows:
– Reg 227 application for duplicate title completed by the new owner
– Reg 343 application for title
– VIN verification
– Commercial vehicles (trucks) require a weight certificate
The other documents necessary will be given to you to complete at your local DMV.
I understand that if parents gift/transfer a car to their child that a form 256 Statement of Facts has to be filled out. But who signs the bottom of 256 – the parent or the child?
Hey Mark. The buyer or seller is able to sign the Reg 256 statement of facts. It’s a true statement regardless of who signs the document.
So I bought a car from somebody 8 months ago. I still have not went to the DMV and registered my name. I am now trying to sell my car, but I want to know how does it work if I try to sell a car that’s not registered in my name, or if I can even sell it? I don’t want to sell it to somebody and they get all these charges and fees, can you please tell me what would have to happen for me to be able to sell this car
Dylan – You are allowed to sell a vehicle without first transferring title. This kind of transaction is referred to as a multiple transfer. You will need to provide the new owner with any documents you previously received; e.g. certificate of title or bill of sale from original owner to you. You will then need to create a bill of sale from yourself to the new buyer. The DMV may contact you pay use tax on your purchase price but that is up to the discretion of the DMV.
My son bought a car from a used car dealership here in CA in June. Its now October and he hasnt received any registration or plates for the car yet. After going to the dealership last month to find out about this they told us that they were on the plates should be on their way. No plates still. We went to the DMV thinking maybe they got lost in the mail. After talking to DMV they stated that the fees had been paid but the transfer had not been complete. This car is financed trough a local credit union so I didnt ask for title just plates. The DMV suggested going back to dealer because the car was legally not in dealer, credit union, or my sons name it was still in a previous owners name. The dealership informed me that they have not gotten the title from the auction they bought it from so they could not finish registration yet. My question is…can they sell a car without possessing a title to it? Now the bank and DMV are hounding for registration and title. What should I do?
Hey Cynthia. We can only refer you to speak with the dealership where you purchased the vehicle. We are unable to offer legal advice in regard to what dealerships are allowed to do.
My husband bought an old 1964 car from someone that is not on the title. It’s inoperable and has been since 1995, which is the last registration date. The seller was given the car (legit) but doesn’t have contact with the name on the title anymore. How do we get it transferred to our name legally without the current seller being on the title and the carbwing inoperable?
Hey Molly. If the vehicle hasn’t been registered since 1995 it is no longer on the DMV records. You will need to provide any available documentation along with a bill of sale from the person from whom you are purchasing the vehicle. The DMV will require you to complete a statement of facts about the vehicle outlining who you obtained the vehicle from, where the vehicle has been, what period of time it has been inoperable and it’s current value. Hope that helps!
I just bought a 2003 BMW. But I don’t have money right now for smog. What happens if I can’t transfer my name on the title within 10 days?
Hey Jonathan. Although the title states a transfer must occur within 10 days, the DMV allows 30 days from the day of transfer. If you do not post title transfer fees within that 10-day window, you will be subject to a 10% use tax penalty and $15 transfer penalty.
I just purchased a vehicle with two people listed as the owners. Being a novice with title paperwork the seller only signed their name releasing the title.The second owner hadn’t signed the release signature section for them.Subsequently;I have tried to reach the seller to obtain the second signature but they will not respond to me.What do I do
Hi Kimberlin. If you cannot obtain the second signature, you will need to go to your local DMV with a bill of sale and any other documents verifying the transfer of ownership, along with a completed REG 227 form. More information on what is required can be found through the official California state website here.
My husband and I bought a car 3 years ago and the title says: his name “AND” my name. He passed away a few months back. I would like to sell the car. I looked into the DMV website and it is not clear what is next for me to do. Can you please advice? Thanks!
Hi Susana. Our condolences on your loss. The DMV should be able to better assist in this case. This article from the California DMV website should provide the information you seek.
I have my boyfriend going to possibly buy a car from this person off Craigslist for me as I will be at work can he fill out everything in my name , full name , address , etc. and put his signature for the title? Would DMV find it as a problem and won’t accept it ?
The registered owner must sign the title to obtain ownership. You can have more than one owner of the vehicle separated by the word “or” so you can remove your boyfriend at a later date but you must sign the title yourself.
Someone bought a car from a lien sale and now wants to sell the car. However they never got the title transferred and all they have to work with is the lien sale packet they received when they bought it. How would I go about buying that car from them safely?
Hey John. Unfortunately we’re unable to provide information regarding lien sales. Your best bet would be to consult your local DMV.
Hi, you previously reviewed and replied to the question set forth below.I have one follow-up question. I’m dealing with the same set of facts for a vehicle last registered in Colorado, but the estate did not go through probate and the title can not be found. Here’s the issue, Colorado will not allow a non-resident (that’s me) to register a vehicle in Colorado. So California says and you agreed, title must be changed in Colorado and then title comes to CA where it can be transferred to person who inherited (me). But Colorado says we will only title a vehicle to a Colorado resident. If non-resident, they tell me I must go to California to change title. I have no idea what to do….Help,
Thanks in advance for any advise,
Josh
JUSTIN SAYS: Hi my father passed away in NE. He willed his estate to my sister and I and it has gone through probate. My sister and I are both PR’s for the estate as well. I live in CA and have already brought the car here. I talked to the CA DMV and they insist I fly back (not comfortable sending the signed title via usps) to NE, switch the title into my name and then switch it to a CA title. Does this sound right? I can’t find any good info on the Internet and the person who helped me at the DMV seemed less than interested in helping me out. Any help would be appreciated.
July 20, 2016 at 7:36 pm Reply
ETAGS SAYS: Hi Justin, We are sorry for your loss and are happy to help with guidance on this topic. In order to do a transfer for a vehicle titled out of state, the title being transferred does have to be in a living person’s name so the advise provided by the CA DMV rep is correct. The only known way to get around this is to obtain a letter of testamentary or a letter of administration from a local court in CA. Unfortunately, these may take a while to obtain if you do not have one already. If you find that it would be easier to do the name transfer in NE first, I would contact the NE DMV to see what other title transfer recording methods they offer other than doing so in person or by mail (such as by fax or email although this may require an electronic title be recorded if allowed). You can reach the NE DMV to inquire about this here: (402) 471-3918 or http://www.dmv.nebraska.gov/dvr/email
Unfortunately, CA DMV and transfer without probate regulations must be adhered to. An out of state of title is required for a non-resident transfer. It may be possible to order a duplicate title from CO and obtain letters of testamentary or letters of administration to avoid transferring the title in CO. CA will accept these 2 documents in lieu of transferring the title into someone who’s living name accompanied by the out of state title.
I just bought a car from a private party that didn’t have the certificate of title. He never got the car transferred to his name but has a signed reg 227 (application for a duplicate title)from the owner from 2 years ago. The buyer information is blank. Will this be enough to transfer ownership to me? If not, what can I do to have the title transferred? I have no idea how to get hold of the original owner. I did a VIN check and the vehicle has not been reported lost or stolen.
Also, the reg 227 is not notarized which I forgot to mention and I think this will be the difficult part. I do have a number for the owner on a signed vehicle transfer and assignment form (reg 262 I think).
Hey Frank. You will need a bill of sale from the person you are buying it from along with all the supporting documents from the previous transfer to complete the title transfer. Also CA doesn’t require registered owner signatures to be notarized only legal owners such as banks or lien holders.
I want to sell my truck to a 16 year old , who has a valid ca. drivers license. can he hold title in his name alone.
Yes, he can hold the title in his name but it is nonetheless illegal to make a contract with a minor. Furthermore, (Vehicle Code §15500) states: “…any minor who does not possess a valid driver’s license cannot order, purchase, lease, accept, or otherwise obtain any vehicle subject to registration.”
what about buying a vehicle in california for someone that lives in michigan?
Hi Stephen. Please refer to DMV.gov under the Nonresident Transfer section here: http://www.bit.ly/NonresidentTransfers
I have 1972 GMC that I bought in texas , with title and bill of sale title was not signed by the seller and now im moving to california what would be the easiest way to get the title transferred in my name
You will need to attempt to get a bill of sale signed by the seller to accompany the title. If you are unsuccessful you can complete a statement of facts to accompany your documents and follow the nonresident transfer process.
What if i bought a car from somebody that didn’t register the car themself but sold it to me & i never registered it & now i have sold it.But now the guy who bought car from me wants the pink slip that i can’t find. How does the new owner get car registered?
Multiple owner transfer requires any documentation or bill of sales from all prior owners. The most current owner will need to submit a reg 227 application for duplicate title at the time of his title transfer. Once the transfer is completed the DMV will ship them a new CA title.
I just sold my car on 7/8/17 but on the pink slip I only signed the front ..and the buyer didn’t put his info nor did he sign it will that be a problem at the DMV to get the car out of my name? He only text me an address and name & I live in California
Hi Tiara. You only need to sign the front as the seller to release interest in the vehicle. You will need to submit a release of liability REG 138 form to protect yourself in the case her doesn’t transfer the vehicle
I traded in my vehicle last year, this tax season i received a notice that $400 was kept due to expired tags and a notice from the DMV that I need to register. But this was the same car I traded and the dealership is not returning my calls. What can I do at this point. Im in California
You will need to complete a release of liability showing the date you traded in the vehicle. You will then need to submit a copy of the release of liability along with a ADM 399 DMV application for refund. Complete and send to the PO BX provided on the form.
I am currently living in Virginia and have a car that is registered in CA (I am here due to my husband being in the military and receiving orders here). But next month, we will be transferring to Hawaii for his next orders. The thing is that the car is under my father’s name, and the Navy will not ship our car if it is not under our name. So far, we have paid off the car loan and are waiting to receive the title, in my fathers name of course. We would like to do a family transfer and keep my fathers name on the registration, but add mine and my husbands name to it as well so that we are able to get it shipped to Hawaii by the Navy. I spoke to CA DMV and was told we could do it online? What steps and process do I need in order to do that? Can you give me the link of where to go to get that done. I am trying to avoid having to go to the DMV because we are leaving in a few weeks and need this done ASAP so that our car can get shipped before we fly out. Thank you! hope to hear from you soon
Hey Karina. You cannot perform a transfer of title online. You will need to wait for the title to arrive from the DMV. Once the title is received your father will need to release interest on the front of the title and input the correct odometer reading and sign for that also. On the reverse of the title you can fit 3 new registered owners. Enter everyone’s information and all 3 must sign the reverse of the title.
My fiancés mother is lending us a car for several months and we intend to drive it from OK to CA and live there. We will likely drive the car back at the end of the year or start of next year where we will leave it with her and fly home to CA. What would be needed in this scenario?
Hi Ann. You will need valid registration and valid insurance.
My ex an I currently bought a truck from private owner and on the bill of sale we both signed it since we were putting it in my name since he doesn’t have a license, the title is also being sent to me but he was listed as the buyer. He currently has the truck an there’s no way he’s going to give it to me and it’s just gonna and up impounded like every other vehicle. So my question is when I receive the title can I get it in my name an claim it as stolen or what would be the way to go about getting it or should I even bother?
Hi Kay. If the vehicle is listed as you or him. You can sign the title over to yourself without him signing. How you get the vehicle back is not something I can answer.
Hi I was given a car from a family member of a deceased friend. Come to find out registration fees for past due has accumulated to $500+. The family is no longer reachable as they were already astranged to begin with. I’m trying to sale the vehicle and I haven’t even put it in my name. What are my options I can’t afford to fix it let alone pay the fees. I have no title other then a note from the family giving me car and I do know everything there is to know of my friend who passed away. What do I do?
Hi Maya. Sorry for your loss. You will need to put the vehicle in your name in order to sell it. Please refer to the California DMV website HTRV 2, Handle the Matters of a Deceased Person: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1dmy&urile=wcm:path:/dmv_content_en/dmv/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr2
Dealer located in Oakland, CA is selling a vehicle I’m interested in. However, CA title is still in the name of the previous owner; in the name of the person the dealer acquired it from. What do I have to do to protect myself? How do I register this car with the DMV if the person whose title the name is in is not signing the transfer papers? Thank you.
You will need to contact your local CA DMV office regarding dealer transactions. In general if a registered owner doesn’t sign the title depending on the value over $5,000 you will need to obtain a vehicle bond and mail a certified letter to the last known address to attempt to retrieve signature.
My mom got me a car as a gift. She lives in Florida and the car is under her name. She has not finished paying for the car yet.
I moved to California for a job and brought the car with me. I am in the insurance as well, but I don’t know if I need to transfer the title to my name or maybe include my name in the title so I can get a California license plate? Or is it okay to keep the FL plate until she is done paying for the car and can fully transfer the car to me?
Hey Cristina. The DMV requires that if you are resident of CA that you need to register the car in CA. You will either need to be added to the title or you will need to have your mom complete the reg 343 mail it to you along with the FL reg card. The vehicle will need a smog and a vin verification to be done at the DMV.
Purchasing a vehicle from out of state, have the title, and out of state registration. The DMV website says a form 343 signed by all registered owners shown on the out-of-state registration or title is required. Looking at the form, I’m confused as to which section(s) the out of state previous owner needs to fill out and sign. Can you please confirm?
The REG 343 is only for the new owner/applicants to complete. The Seller only needs to sign the out of state title to release ownership.
hello,
I have a situation. My friend was given a vehicle about 10 years ago but original owner or him never changed ownership.
I’m trying to buy the car but the title is lost and my friend said last he heard the original owner left the country and hasn’t heard anything from him in over 7 years. The car hasn’t been driven for the past 4 years.
What would be my options/ steps to buy and transfer the ownership to me?
thnx for the info
** update: Original owner passed away
Hey Frank. The California DMV Registration Manual will have all the answers you seek under Chapter 7.025 – “Unavailable Records”: http://www.bit.ly/CADMVregistrationprocedures
Hello,
The small trailer I want to by from an individual has a perm license. The seller told me that he is selling the trailer, but that at one point, he was going to the trailer to his dad, and the title now has his dad’s information on the back of the title as well as his Dad’s signature. He says his dad never did take the trailer, Does the son have to get a replacement title? Or can we go to the DMV together and with a bill of sale, can we get the transfer taken care of without getting a replacement title?
The owner can make a statement of facts that the person on the reverse of the title never took position of the vehicle. That statement accompanied by a Bill of Sale from you him to you should be acceptable for the transfer.
Good Morning. We have just moved from California to Washington State. My [California] vehicle registration was set to expire at the end of this month [May 2017]. I just registered the vehicle in Washington State. How do I notify California DMV that the vehicle is now permanently removed from California and registered in another state? Thank you!
The state of WA will notify CA once the vehicle has been registered out of state. You can still submit a REG change of address form to CA to ensure the information is updated.
I sold my car and both parties completed bill of sale. I mailed in the bill of sale. 20 days later i recieved a ticket. How do i know dmv recieved it and completed the transaction
What exactly was your ticket for?
I live in.California & just bought a vehicle out of Nevada. It has been sitting at someones house for YEARS where it had been abandoned. The person whose house it was at was moving & wanted it gone. Thats where i came in. It has absolutely no paperwork. No one can even remember the persons name who left it. And it has no plates on it. Which i guess is pretty common in NV due to they turn in their plates to dmv everytime a vehicle is sold. My question is how do i go about registering this vehicle in California????
Hi Nicol. All the information you need can be found at CAdmv.gov in the Registration Manual Chapter 7.025 under “Unavailable Records”: bit.ly/CADMVregistrationprocedures
My name is Jack. I was given a 2003 Suziki SV650S Motorcycle. I have no title, no sales receipt, and I found out that there is a lien from E-Loan. I contacted them and they said that the only way that they would release the lien was to talk to the registered owner over the phone. This is in California. The registered owner moved to New York and does not want anything to do with the motorcycle. Also the vehicle has not been registered since 2008 and there is $727.00 owed in past reg fees. What exactly should I do? There must be a way to do this. I do not believe that any money is owed to the loan company, they just have not been removed from the title. When I spoke to them on the phone they had no interest in repossession of this vehicle or payment of any loan. Please help! Thank You!! Jack
The DMV requires a notarized lien satisfied to complete a transfer when a legal owner is shown. If no money is owed they shouldn’t have an issue providing this. You, as the new owner will be responsible for all late fees associated with registering the vehicle.
Hi, my wife just got a title for her new car and the Registered Owner name is shown with her double-barrelled last name together with no space when there should be a space i.e. smithjohns tara jean (as an example). Does this matter or should we get the space inserted between her last names? Please let me know the route to take, if any. Thanks!
The DMV system does not allow for hyphens. If a last name is hyphened the DMV will put it together as one name.
I lost title but am registered owner.. have a buyer whom wants to buy and take care of all fees…
Can I do that ?
Hey Lorie. You will still need to get a new copy of the title in your name to complete the sale. If the buyer wants to take care of those fees, that would be a personal arrangement between you and them.
My mother who lives in Pennsylvania bought a van on Ebay in California.
The ebay seller gave her a title from New York that he never transferred into his name. (The title is signed by the original owner and the automotive sales company name who bought it from her.) We do have the sales receipt from the dealer to the guy who sold it to us, but he refuses to get a title and sign it over to my mom.
My questions are:
1. Can my mom get this transferred to her without a signed title, but only a bill of sale?
2. If not, are we able to get a “bonded” title?
3. Since she has a PA Driver’s license, should I get it put into my name as a CA driver?
4. Do you have any other suggestions of what we should do? (She has to drive it back to Pennsylvania this month.)
Thank you
Hi Karen. Answers to your questions below:
1. You will need a bill of sale from the person you bought the vehicle from as well as all supporting titling documents received from seller.
2. Titling bonds are only for vehicles valued over $5,000 with liens on them.
3. Any adult can be an owner of a vehicle in CA, regardless of residency.
4. These answers only pertain to registering the vehicle in California. If it’s to be registered in CA, a smog check will need to be completed (1976 newer) as well as VIN verification.
I had returned my lease on 12/22/16 at the dealer. On 1/28/17, someone using the car went through a toll in San Francisco without paying. I was sent the citation. I called the dealer, the parent car company and the car leasing department and nobody have paperwork for transfer of ownership from my name back to the company. The only thing i know is it was auctioned off on 12/31/16 then it ended up at a dealer in Fremont on 1/9/17 and sold. How is it after the exchange of so many hands the car is still under my name? Shouldn’t it have been transferred before it was sold?
If nobody transfers the vehicle legally then you would show as the last registered owner. The DMV has a form REG 138 Release of Liability for these situations. You will need to mail a copy of this form to DMV to show the date you returned the vehicle. You will need to keep multiple copies, so you can send them to the toll roads to exonerate you from any citations.
Hello. I purchased an older SUV from a private party, was told he paid the registration as it was due, but did not smog it as he knew he was going to sell it. I find out now its missing catalytic converters (dual exhaust). I have tried contacting the seller but I am being ignored. My understanding is a seller in CA is responsible for that car passing smog. Now, I have a vehicle that will not pass smog as it is missing smog equipment. I like the vehicle but not the prospects of spending hundreds to make it smog compliant. What recourse do I have?
I buy a car from a gentleman that told me that there was no paperwork on the vehicle the previous owner is in Iraq I went to go try to get the vehicle transferred in my name and there is back taxes owed on it to the IRS I already gave him the money but I can’t register it
Hi Heather. Unfortunately title fraud is a prevalent issue when purchasing your car. We hope you were able to get this situation resolved. Should you need anymore information or be curious of the signs, the DMV website outlines steps that can be taken to prevent fraud here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/about/fraudprevention
Hello, If I am selling a vehicle as a private party in California and they are registering in California. Does my signature have to be exactly the same as the name on the title or if I usually sign with a first initial and full last name, will DMV accept it?
Hey Debra. Per Signatures and Endorsements (CVC §§ 17, 19, 5751) DMV Policy on Signatures, the DMV will accept the usual signature of the registered or legal owner with omissions or additions to the printed name. More info can be found here: bit.ly/CADMVsignatures
My mom bought a dirtbike back in 2010 and we haven’t registered it in our name and she lost the pink slip, how do we get a new one or register it?
Hey Brittany. You will need to go to through the California DMV, first proving ownership before you are able to register an off-highway vehicle (OHV). The California DMV website has helpful information and forms that can be found here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1dmy&urile=wcm:path:/dmv_content_en/dmv/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr19
Hello,
My mom bought my car for me 10 years ago, paying cash. The car has always been registered in her name. The car isn’t really running anymore so I need to sell/donate the car but I need to transfer the title to my name. I just registered it PNO. We live 8 hours apart so her coming to me or the car going to here is not an option. What is the difference between Sec. 4 Register Owner & Sec. 5 Legal Owner? Do I need to complete section 5 and notarize Reg 227?
For the Statement of Facts I need to complete, what box do I check: Title Only or Title Only?
Thank you in advanced for your help! These forms are difficult to understand and the people at the DMV weren’t too helpful.
I live out of state and want to buy a car in California and I’m familiar with the process I have to do in my end and the vehicle I’m thinking of purchasing has back fees due in California, will they still be owed in another state?
Hi Johnny, only the state the vehicle is currently registered can charge past registration fees. So, while the vehicle has back-taxes in California, this is not something that a different state can collect. There may be other recourses that the California DMV, in this case, might execute to try and collect those back taxes such as putting a lien on the title. This, however, is unlikely. While we recommend that you check with the state you plan to register the vehicle in, it is not likely that you will be charged for unpaid registration fees accumulated in California. Best of luck with this.
I was inquiring about a car listed with a private party here in CA. The owner said they hold an electronic title for the car. I had not heard of that… I thought electronic titles are held by larger banks not private parties here in CA.
Hi Dave, thanks for visiting our blog. You are correct that only certain financial institutions and dealers can hold electronic titles. However, once a lien has been paid off, these entities are required to mail the paper title to the owner. In this case, the private seller can request a paper copy of the title to provide to you before the sale/transfer. It is important that you make sure that you research any liens on the title (such as those associated with a financed vehicle) and any backed up registration fees. You become responsible for these liens and costs once you take ownership. Also, you are not required to be provided the paper title by the seller. You can use this application to transfer the title and obtain your paper copy at the same time: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/wcm/connect/7885d40d-4d2e-4fc0-b100-3ef8fe562bd7/reg227.pdf?MOD=AJPERES We hope this information helps. Best of luck with your search for vehicle and please drive safely.
I have had a title returned for a vehicle purchased and the enclosed document states “COUNTER SIGNATURE 9A BACK OF TITLE”. I have completed 9A already prior to this being returned and have already had the title returned once for a seller signature to be completed (which has been done). The vehicle was purchased back in September so this is getting ridiculous. What am I missing?
Hi Russ, we are sorry to hear that you are (were) having so much trouble with this. If you are still in need of assistance with this, the only information we could find that would justify the return of your application is that they are requesting a counter signature becuase the vehicle is in a business or other entities name. The proper way to sign a counter signature in this scenario is as follows: “John Doe INC” BY “Signature of new owner” followed by title. The word “by” is vital for the signature to be considered complete in this case. But if this does not represent your situation, we highly recommend calling the DMV Customer Service Department at (800) 777-0133. Best of luck with this and drive safely.
Hi my name is lonnie and i received a suv from my second cousin he moved to ca from Tennessee but in the process he lost the title but car is registered to him in his name is there any way we can transfer it in my name and get a ca title without having the pink slip from Tennessee
Hi Lonnie, unfortunately, the DMV requires the out of state title to complete the transfer. You will need to obtain a copy of the title from Tennessee in order to change the title over either to have it your name or to ever sell the vehicle in California. You can look into get the duplicate title here: https://www.tn.gov/revenue/article/duplicate-title If you aren’t able to transfer the title right away, you will still be able to register the vehicle in order to get plates and stickers so it can be driven in the state. However, since the title is in your cousins name, the registration would also have to be in his name and you can be added as a second registered owner.
i recently purchased a vehicle from a friends son. later on found out the license plate on car do not match vin number. when i just did a vin number check a different license plate number came back. the seller is not answering my calls or texts now. what can i do?
i did not receive any paperwork from seller. a transfer form was in car, but just with the 2 signatures. no other info. i can i tell the vin number is to the actual car?
Hello, I purchased OHV quad in 2013 and never transferred ownership. I still have the pink slip, can I still transfer the ownership and will I be penalized? thanks,
Hi Garit, Thanks for visiting our site and we apologize for the delayed reply. The DMV allows 30 days for you to transfer title. After 30 days has passed from the official date you acquired the vehicle, they assess a $15 late fee and a 10% use tax penalty fee. As long you have the title, you can complete the transfer at any time. If you have not done so already, we recommend calling the DMV customer service line at (800) 777-0133 to inquire about any accumulated fees to complete the transfer.
Hello. I just moved to CA from out of state. I have misplaced my title from the other state. Can I bring in my last registration as proof of ownership and then title the car in CA. There is no transfer of ownership from previous state.
Hi Amanda,
Yes, you can register an out-of-state vehicle in CA with the most current out-of-state registration as long as the name(s) that will be placed on the new registration is/are the same as what exists on the out-of-state registration. Without turning in the title though, your new California registration card will read that it is a non-transferable vehicle. If you plan on selling the vehicle in California one day, you will need to obtain a copy of the out-of-state title and then transfer the title so that you can be issued a California title. Hope that helps. Please let us know if you have any other questions.
hi. i bought a used car from a private party. did not receive pink slip or a bill of sale from him. he already released liability and put only my first name. i know that because i got stopped, expired registration, and that is what officer told me. i cant register because i have no bill of sale. what can i do??
Hi Lisa,
You have a few different options when you purchase a car without receiving a bill of sale or title from the seller. The exact steps you will need to take depend on the model year of the car and the value of the car. We recommend taking any documentation you have for the vehicle to a DMV office. You may want to call the DMV customer service line ahead of your visit so they can go over the appropriate paperwork required to complete your transaction. Their phone number is (800) 777-0133.
hi,
im looking into purchasing a used motorcycle and it has statement of facts paperwork only since it was bought from an auction. what is my next step? does this sound right? I don’t want to get in over my head..thx
Hi, vehicles purchased from Auctions have many variables so it would be difficult to advise on what needs to be done since we don’t know the vehicle history. However, you can contact the DMV customer service department at (800)777-0133 to get next steps. Hope that helps and thanks for visiting the eTags blog.
Hi – I am buying a car from a private party in Ohio. The party had sent me the title which is signed but not notarized.
I see that its mentioned below the signature that it needs to be notarized. Do I need to send it back to them to get it notarized ? Also, the title says that its replacement title at the top. The party told me that they got the replacement title after lien release. Will I face any problem when I go for transfer of title.
Hi RK, The DMV doesn’t require the releasing signature on an out-of-state title to be notarized. Just be sure it is properly signed and contains an accurate odometer reading (also signed for) if the vehicle is less than 10 years old. Additionally, it is not an issue that the title says replacement on it. As long as you have the most recently printed title in your possession, you can start the transfer process at the DMV. Congrats on your new vehicle and thanks for visiting our blog.
how can i sell a car without transferring the title in my name from the previous owner. its having issues and i dont have money for it, so im selling but never registered it in my name thanks
Hi Allison, You will need to do what is commonly referred to as a multi-transfer. You will need to provide the new buyer with all the original transfer paperwork you received from the party that you originally purchased the vehicle from. You will also need a completed bill of sale to provide the buyer and protect you from future liability. With these two documents and an up to date smog, the buyer should be able to pay the transfer fees to put the vehicle in their name. We do recommend calling the DMV ahead to make sure they will not require additional proof of ownership before the transfer. You can reach the DMV customer service department at (800) 777-0133.
Would you give the new buyer the pink slip that you signed when you bought the vechile?
Hello John. You both need to sign the pink slip and the new buyer needs to take that document to the local CA DMV as it is part of the requirements for vehicle title transfers.
Another question is do you need to do a release of liability along with the bill of sale ?
You are advised to submit a release of liability since it will serve to notify the DMV about the vehicle has a new owner. eTags offers Californians a vehicle title transfer service online. It’s faster and easier than heading to the local DMV.
Hi – My wife and I shortened our last name several years ago, and pretty much everything updated we could think of – bank accounts, drivers licenses, insurance, social security cards, utilities, etc.
3 years later I’m looking to sell my car and noticed both the title and registration are still printed with my longer last name. I guess I incorrectly assumed the DMV would update everything with my new shortened last name. Registration is current – I just never noticed that they didn’t update my last name on it since my Driver’s License is correct.
Can I sell the car and transfer the title as things are now, or do I need to go to the DMV to have both the registration and pink slip officially updated?
Hi Eric, Thank you for visiting our blog. You can go ahead and sell the car and transfer the title as things are now. Since you have changed your name though, you will just need to have a Statement of Facts form (https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/wcm/connect/5a40cbcc-a9a9-4a42-ac43-a8564fa552c0/reg256.pdf?MOD=AJPERES) along with the other forms as outlined in the first section of this article titled “Transferring Ownership of a Motor Vehicle”. On the Statement of Facts form, you will fill out the section marked “Name Statement”. If both you and your wife are listed on the title and registration, both will need to complete and sign all forms accompanying the title. Hope that helps and best of luck with the upcoming sale of your car.
Hi my father passed away in NE. He willed his estate to my sister and I and it has gone through probate. My sister and I are both PR’s for the estate as well. I live in CA and have already brought the car here. I talked to the CA DMV and they insist I fly back (not comfortable sending the signed title via usps) to NE, switch the title into my name and then switch it to a CA title. Does this sound right? I can’t find any good info on the Internet and the person who helped me at the DMV seemed less than interested in helping me out. Any help would be appreciated.
Hi Justin, We are sorry for your loss and are happy to help with guidance on this topic. In order to do a transfer for a vehicle titled out of state, the title being transferred does have to be in a living person’s name so the advise provided by the CA DMV rep is correct. The only known way to get around this is to obtain a letter of testamentary or a letter of administration from a local court in CA. Unfortunately, these may take a while to obtain if you do not have one already. If you find that it would be easier to do the name transfer in NE first, I would contact the NE DMV to see what other title transfer recording methods they offer other than doing so in person or by mail (such as by fax or email although this may require an electronic title be recorded if allowed). You can reach the NE DMV to inquire about this here: (402) 471-3918 or http://www.dmv.nebraska.gov/dvr/email
I just purchased a motorcycle from a dealers/shop. The motorcycle is a 2016 Honda originally from TN. It was last registered in TN back in 2017. Someone attempted to steal it awhile back.. but whoever owned it last, dropped it off at the shop to get it fixed and never picked it up… so the shop got a lien on the bike because it was considered abandoned.. I purchased it… problem is, there’s only 40 miles on it.. I need to register it here in CA. Any thoughts?
If the vehicle has under 7500 miles and does not meet CA emissions standards, the bike is not allowed to be registered or title in CA
Hi. Grandmother is gifting CA registered vehicle to grandson. Vehicle is then shipped to Minnesota where grandson is residing.
What needs to be done for CA DMV purposes? Signing of pink slip, anything else?
Thanks
Hi Grisel, if the title is remaining as a California title while the vehicle is registered and operated in Minnesota, the process to transfer a title to a family member is the same as when you buy/sell (please view the bullet points under the section “Transferring Ownership of a Motor Vehicle”) with the exception that a smog test is not required and no usage taxes need to be paid. These exemptions require that you fill out form 256 (https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/wcm/connect/5a40cbcc-a9a9-4a42-ac43-a8564fa552c0/reg256.pdf?MOD=AJPERES) in addition to the other transfer forms listed in the first section of this article. However, if you want the title to be recorded in Minnesota, you will need to contact the Minnesota DMV to see what they require: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/dvs/Pages/vehicle-title-transfer.aspx Hope that helps.
I just bought a car out of state, and was wondering what needed to be done to have it in California. Do you need to get a new title if you change states? I was unclear on that step. How do you go about getting a vehicle verification form signed by a law enforcement officer? Thanks for the information!
Hi April, You can choose to keep the title of the state from which it was issued but you will not be able to sell the vehicle in California until you transfer the title. However, you will be able to obtain a registration to drive the vehicle with the proper documentation of ownership. If you choose to transfer the title to California, you will be able to sell the vehicle within the state. In regards to the vehicle verification form, it can be authorized by a DMV employee, law enforcement officer, or licensed vehicle verifier.
Can you transfer a lost car title? I just want to know what goes on or what you have to do to make sure that the car title doesn’t get into the hands of a stranger. I am guessing there are ways to make sure that you can get a duplicate or something so that the car isn’t marked as stolen.
Hi Charles, You can transfer the title even if it is lost by either obtaining the duplicate before the transfer or at the time the transfer is done at the DMV office. When you fill out the duplicate title form, there is a section that requires you specify the reason for obtaining the duplicate which is recorded and can be viewed by any DMV employee in case anyone who has the original title can’t try and transfer it. Additionally, other proof is required like photo ID and registration documents to verify the owner information. If you haven’t applied for a duplicate yet, we recommend that you do as soon as possible (guide here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/?1dmy&urile=wcm:path:/dmv_content_en/dmv/pubs/brochures/howto/htvr10) but once that is done, you don’t have anything to worry about.
My brother passed away in Oregon last year he gave me his 1974 Corvette that hadn’t been out of the garage in 35 years, so I got the Oregon title changed in my name , it has my California address on it and is non op, would like to get California non op on it before I start working on it, how difficult is this going to be ?
An out of state transfer requires a vin verification by a DMV employee or CHP. The vehicle can remain in a NON Op status as long as the transfer paperwork is completed at the DMV.