You'll need to: Fill out the official Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) transfer forms. Get a smog certification. Submit transfer forms. Complete the California certificate of title. Get an odometer reading. Collect any valid warranties or as-is documents. Collect all maintenance records.
The CA DMV allows you to replace your CA car title online, by mail, or in person.
Transferring a car title usually requires the vehicle title itself and a title application, the parties' addresses, signatures from the previous and new owners, and details on the vehicle and its value. These documents look different from state to state, but the information they require is generally the same.
Register your California car online- change ownership. Fill out the form below to start the process of registering and changing ownership of your recently purchased car, pick up, motorcycle, trailer or commercial vehicle from California. Start the process online and avoid going to the CA DMV offices.
You need the vehicle title, application for title or registration, bill of sale, smog check certificate, odometer disclosure statement, and identification for both the buyer and seller to complete the title transfer online.
Online: Change your address online. Expect it to take up to three days for processing. By mail: Download the DMV 14 form (or call DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to request to have the form mailed to you; note this may take up to 5 days to receive) and mail the completed form to the address listed on the form.
To transfer your vehicle title to California, you'll need the original out-of-state title, completed Application for Title or Registration (form REG 343), proof of identity, a Vehicle Verification Certificate from a licensed verifier, and a valid smog certification if applicable.
You need to complete Form REG 262 for the title transfer. If you're transferring the vehicle as a gift or inheritance, you may also need to fill out Form REG 256, the Statement of Facts, to clarify the transaction type.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring a Car Title in California Prepare the Necessary Documents. To initiate the transfer, gather these essential documents. Complete the Title. Fill Out a Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262) ... Complete a Statement of Facts (REG 256) ... Submit Fees and Required Documents.