California Title Transfers | DMV.org
Complete a California vehicle title transfer with the correct forms, fees, and deadlines. This guide covers private-party sales, dealer purchases, gifts, inherited vehicles, out-of-state titles, lien releases, duplicates, and corrections—using California DMV-specific rules and amounts.
How to Transfer a California Vehicle Title:
- Get the signed California Certificate of Title from the seller and any required lien release (Form REG 166 if applicable).
- Complete required forms: REG 343 (if titling/registration), REG 262 (odometer for vehicles under 20 years, if needed), and smog documents or pay the $8 smog transfer fee if exempt.
- Submit at a DMV office and pay the $15 title transfer fee plus taxes and registration ($74 registration, $28 CHP, VLF at 0.65% of value, and any county fees).
- File seller’s Release of Liability within 5 days; buyer must transfer title within 10 days.
Eligibility
- Buyer must submit transfer within 10 days of purchase.
- Seller should file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days.
- Out-of-state vehicles must be registered in California within 20 days of establishing residency.
- Odometer disclosure is required for vehicles under 20 model years if the title lacks mileage space.
- Smog certification is required unless the vehicle is exempt; otherwise pay the $8 smog transfer fee.
- All applicable liens must be properly released (REG 166) before DMV will issue a clear title.
Documents
- California Certificate of Title (Signed by Seller and Buyer)
- Valid Identification (Ca Driver’s License/ID or Acceptable ID)
- Smog Certification or Exemption
- Odometer Disclosure (Reg 262 If Needed)
- Bill of Sale (Recommended)
- Verification of Vehicle (Reg 31) for Out-of-state Vehicles
Fees & Costs
- Fee — $15 Title transfer
- Fee — $28 Duplicate title (new title only)
- Fee — $28 New title only (no transfer)
- Fee — $8 Smog transfer fee (if smog certificate not required)
- Fee — $74 Registration (annual base)
- Fee — $28 California Highway Patrol (CHP) fee
- Fee — 0.65% of vehicle value Vehicle License Fee (VLF)
- Fee — 7.25%–10.25% of purchase price (by county) Use tax
- Fee — $1–$40 County/District add-ons
- Fee — $23 Planned Non-Operation (if choosing PNO)
FAQ
How much is a California title transfer?
The base title transfer fee is $15. You’ll also pay use tax (7.25%–10.25% depending on county), registration fees ($74 registration, $28 CHP, VLF at 0.65% of the DMV-assessed value), and any applicable county/district fees. If no smog is required under the 8-model-year exemption, you’ll pay an $8 smog transfer fee instead of submitting a certificate.
What forms do I need to transfer a car title in CA?
You need the endorsed California title. If the title is lost, use REG 227. Use REG 166 for lien releases. For most out-of-state or original titling, include REG 343 and VERIFICATION REG 31. Use REG 262 for odometer disclosure when the vehicle is under 20 model years and the title lacks mileage space.
Do I need a smog check to transfer title?
Most gasoline vehicles 4 model years and older require a smog certificate at transfer. If your recently purchased vehicle is 8 model years or fewer and not diesel-powered, you are exempt from providing a certificate and must pay the $8 smog transfer fee instead. Several vehicle classes are exempt (e.g., electric vehicles, motorcycles).
What are the deadlines for California title transfers?
The buyer must transfer the title within 10 days of purchase. The seller should file the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within 5 days. New residents must register out-of-state vehicles within 20 days of establishing residency.
How do I remove a lien from my title?
Obtain a completed Lien Satisfied/Legal Owner/Title Holder Release (REG 166) from your lienholder. If the original paper title is unavailable, apply for a duplicate using REG 227 and pay the $28 duplicate fee. Bring the properly signed replacement title and pay the $15 transfer fee to process lien removal at DMV.
Can I mail my title transfer?
Yes, many transactions can be completed by mail. Send the endorsed title (or REG 227), applicable forms (e.g., REG 166, REG 262), and a check or money order for the $15 transfer fee, taxes, and registration fees to P.O. Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94269. Allow 2–6 weeks for processing.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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