Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual

Driver Education illustration

Section 13 of 38

Chapter 12: Nonresident Vehicles

12.085 Military Personnel–Discharged (VC §6703)

Any person who enters California after being discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces is exempt from California registration for passenger vehicles, trailer coaches, and utility trailers provided the vehicle has valid out-of-state plates and registration.

Registration fees become due when the person accepts gainful employment in California or becomes a California resident and must be paid within 20 days following that date to avoid penalties (CVC §4152.5).