California Driver Handbook
VEHICLE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
This is a brief summary of California’s vehicle registration requirements. Visit the Department of Motor Vehicles’ (DMV) web site for detailed information.
CALIFORNIA VEHICLES
When you purchase a new or used vehicle from a licensed California dealer, the dealer collects use tax and fees to register and title the vehicle.
The dealer submits the fees and documents to DMV and gives you temporary operating authority. Usually within six to eight weeks after your purchase date, you will receive a registration card, license plates, stickers, and a Certificate of Title, if appropriate.
If you obtain or purchase a vehicle from a private party, you must transfer the ownership within 10 days. Submit the following to DMV:
- A properly endorsed and completed Certificate of Title or Application for Duplicate Title (REG 227).
- Smog certification provided by the seller, if required.
- Use tax payment, if required.
- Odometer Mileage Disclosure statement, if applicable.
- Appropriate DMV fees. When you sell or transfer a vehicle, report it to DMV within 5 days. You can complete the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form online Notice of Release of Liability, download the Notice of Release of Liability form and mail it, or call DMV if you need a form to be mailed to you.
OUT-OF-STATE VEHICLES
Vehicles registered in another state or foreign country must be registered in California within 20 days after you become a resident or get a job. (See page 1.)
Nonresident military personnel and their spouses may operate their vehicles in California with valid home state license plates or until the plates issued from their last duty station expire. They may renew the registration in their home state before it expires or register the vehicle in California.
The items needed to register any out-of-state vehicle are:
- Completed and signed Application for Title or Registration (REG 343).
- Verification of the vehicle completed by DMV or an auto club employee.
- Out-of-state title and/or last issued out-of-state registration card, if the title is not submitted.
- Smog certification (1976 and newer motor vehicles only).
- Weight certificate for commercial vehicles only.
- Appropriate DMV fees and use tax, if applicable.
- Completed Odometer Mileage Disclosure statement, if applicable.