Transferring a car title in California is a required step when ownership of a vehicle changes. A title—also called a pink slip—serves as the legal document that proves who owns the vehicle. Without completing a proper title transfer, the new owner cannot register the vehicle in their name, and the seller may still be held liable for violations, tolls, or accidents tied to that car.
Under California law, title transfers must be completed within 10 days of the sale, gift, or transfer. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) manages all title transactions and provides both in-person and online tools to help residents complete the process.
Failure to complete a vehicle title transfer properly or on time can lead to late fees, penalties, and even delays in registration. This guide breaks down each step of the process and includes special cases like inherited vehicles, out-of-state titles, and lien releases.
When Is a Title Transfer Required?
A title transfer is required anytime legal ownership of a vehicle changes. California DMV regulations make it clear that this includes a variety of situations, not just private sales.
- Private Party Sales: A vehicle title transfer must occur if you buy or sell a vehicle directly to another individual. The buyer must transfer the title into their name, and the seller must notify the DMV using a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days.
- Gifting a Vehicle: Giving a vehicle to a family member or someone else still counts as a change of ownership. The DMV treats gifts similarly to sales, but in many cases, the new owner is exempt from use tax.
- Inheritance: If a vehicle is inherited after someone’s death, the title must be transferred to the heir or beneficiary. This may involve special DMV forms such as the Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5).
- Out-of-State Vehicles: When you move to California with a vehicle titled in another state, you must transfer the title to California within 20 days of establishing residency.
- Lien Payoffs: If you paid off your car loan and the lender releases their interest in the vehicle, you’ll need to update the title to reflect your sole ownership.
- Adding or Removing a Co-Owner: Any change in ownership details, even between spouses or family members, requires a title transfer.
Failing to recognize when a title transfer is needed can lead to fines or complications with future registration.
Required Documents for Title Transfer
Before starting a title transfer in California, gather all required documents to avoid delays. Requirements may vary slightly based on the type of transfer, but most situations involve the same core forms and proofs.
Where possible, the name of the form that you’ll need to fill out has been listed, and links have been provided in the resources section at the end of this article, but always consult the DMV if you’re unsure.
- California Certificate of Title: This is the current title document. The seller must sign the title in the appropriate section to release ownership. If the title is lost or damaged, use the REG 227 form.
- Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227): Use this when the original title is missing. It acts as both an application for a duplicate and for ownership transfer.
- Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262): Required when there’s no room on the title to record the odometer reading or when dealing with dealers. This form must be ordered from the DMV; it is unavailable online.
- Statement of Facts (REG 256): Used to explain special circumstances (e.g., exemption from use tax for family transfers).
- Smog Certification: This document is needed if the vehicle is more than four model years old and not exempt from California regulations. Smog checks are usually required for most vehicles unless the vehicle is diesel-powered, electric, hybrid, or newer than four years.
- Odometer Disclosure: Required for vehicles less than 10 years old. The odometer reading must be entered on the title or REG 262.
- Bill of Sale (REG 135): This documentation and form are optional, but they are useful as a sales record. Although the document may look different from person to person, it usually confirms the sale price and date.
- Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (REG 166): This form confirms the lienholder has released their interest if a loan has been paid off.
Having original copies of all the correct documents in order before going to the DMV helps ensure the DMV can process the California DMV title transfer without delay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring a Title
Whether you’re buying or selling a vehicle in California, both parties must complete specific steps to ensure the title transfer is valid and processed by the DMV.
Failing to follow these steps correctly can lead to delays, penalties, or legal issues down the line.
For Sellers
Before handing over the keys, sellers must complete these essential steps to protect themselves and ensure the transfer is valid.
1. Complete the Title
Sign the title in the designated section to release ownership. Include the odometer reading if the vehicle is less than 10 years old. If the title is missing, complete and sign the Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227).
2. Provide Supporting Documents
If required, include a completed Bill of Sale (REG 135) and Smog Certification. A smog certificate is usually required unless the vehicle is exempt or the buyer is a family member.
3. Submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL)
Within 5 days of the sale, submit the NRL form to the DMV online or by mail. This notifies the state that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle and protects you from future penalties related to the car.
4. Remove License Plates (if applicable)
For most private sales in California, license plates stay with the vehicle. However, if the plates are personalized, remove them before the sale.
For Buyers
Buyers are responsible for completing the title transfer promptly to avoid late fees and registration issues.
1. Obtain All Required Documents from the Seller
Make sure the seller provides the signed title, smog certification (if applicable), odometer disclosure, and any other necessary forms (REG 262, REG 135).
2. Visit the DMV or Use the Online Portal
Bring the completed title and all supporting documents to a DMV office, or complete the process using the DMV Virtual Office. You must transfer ownership within 10 days of the purchase to avoid penalties.
3. Pay Transfer Fees and Taxes
Fees include a title transfer fee, use tax based on purchase price, and possibly a smog transfer fee. The exact amount depends on your location and vehicle type.
4. Receive New Title and Registration
After submitting all forms and payments, the DMV will immediately issue a new registration card and mail the new title within several weeks.
Special Circumstances
Not every title transfer follows a standard sale. The California DMV recognizes several special scenarios that require specific steps, forms, or exemptions. Here’s how to handle them.
Inherited Vehicles
The title must be transferred to a beneficiary or heir when a vehicle owner dies. If the estate is not going through probate and the total value is under a certain threshold, you can use the Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5).
Required documents include:
- A completed REG 5 form
- The original title
- A death certificate
- Odometer disclosure, if required
- Any fees due for transfer and registration
If the estate is in probate, you’ll need court documents showing authority to transfer the vehicle.
Gifting a Vehicle
When giving a car to a relative, the DMV still requires a title transfer, but the process may be exempt from use tax.
Steps include:
- Completing the title and listing $0 or “gift” as the purchase price
- Submitting a Statement of Facts (REG 256) indicating the vehicle was a gift
- Including a smog certification, unless the recipient is a family member and the vehicle is less than four years old
- Gifts between parents, children, spouses, grandparents, or domestic partners generally qualify for the tax exemption.
Vehicles with Liens
If a lienholder (such as a bank) has released its interest in a vehicle, you’ll need a Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (REG 166) form.
There are two types of titles in these cases:
- Paper title: The lienholder signs and releases the title, and you submit it to the DMV.
- Electronic title: Once the loan is paid off, the DMV is notified electronically. You’ll need to request a paper title showing your name as the sole owner.
You cannot transfer the title until the lienholder officially releases the lien.
Out-of-State Transfers
Bringing a vehicle into California? You must transfer the title within 20 days of establishing residency.
Steps include:
- A completed Application for Title or Registration (REG 343)
- The out-of-state title
- Vehicle verification by the DMV or authorized agent (REG 31)
- Smog certification, if applicable
- Use tax and title transfer fees
Delays in out-of-state transfers can lead to penalties, so act promptly.
Fees and Taxes
Every title transfer in California comes with required fees and, in many cases, use tax based on the vehicle’s value and location. Knowing what to expect helps avoid surprises at the DMV.
Title Transfer Fees
As of 2024, California’s standard title transfer fee is $15. If you’re transferring ownership and registering the vehicle, additional fees apply for registration and related services.
Use Tax
California collects use tax on most vehicle transfers unless the transaction qualifies for an exemption (such as a gift to a close family member). The tax rate depends on your county and can range from 7.25% to over 10% of the vehicle’s sale price or fair market value.
Exemptions include:
- Gifts between qualifying family members
- Inheritance transfers
- Court-ordered transfers (e.g., divorce settlements)
You’ll need to complete a Statement of Facts (REG 256) to claim an exemption.
Other Possible Fees
- Smog Certification Fee (if applicable): varies by provider
- Penalty Fees: Transfer not completed within 10 days may result in late penalties
- Replacement Title Fee: Fee varies if the original is lost or damaged
Use the DMV fee calculator to get an exact estimate for your situation.
Smog Certification Requirements
In most title transfers, the buyer must provide a valid smog certification. California law requires a smog check for vehicles more than four model years old. The certification must be issued within 90 days of the title transfer.
Smog checks are performed at STAR-certified stations. Results are sent electronically to the DMV, but it’s a good idea to keep a copy of the certificate.
Exemptions:
- Gasoline-powered vehicles 4 model years old or newer
- Diesel vehicles 1997 or older or with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) over 14,000 lbs
- Electric vehicles
- Motorcycles and trailers
- Transfers between close family members (e.g., parent to child)
The title transfer will not be processed if a smog certification is required and not submitted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small errors can delay a title transfer or cause penalties. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: Always double-check that all required sections are filled out, including signatures and odometer readings if applicable.
- Missing Signatures: Both the seller and buyer must sign the title. If co-owners are listed, both must sign as well.
- Skipping the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL): Sellers must file the NRL within 5 days to avoid future responsibility for the vehicle.
- Not Meeting the 10-Day Deadline: Buyers must complete the transfer within 10 days of the sale to avoid late fees and penalties.
- Forgetting to Bring the Right Documents: Missing the original title, smog certificate, or ID can cause you to make multiple trips to the DMV.
Preparing ahead and reviewing all requirements will help make the process smooth.
Online Title Transfer Process
The California DMV offers an online option to complete many title transfers through its Virtual Office. This service allows buyers and sellers to upload required documents, pay transfer fees, and track the process without visiting a DMV field office.
Who Can Use It
The online title transfer system is available for private party vehicle sales, transfers between family members, and gifts. You must have access to:
- A scanned copy or photo of the signed title
- Any required forms (e.g., REG 227, REG 262, REG 256)
- A smog certification, if required
- Payment method for fees and taxes
Steps to Complete the Online Transfer
- Visit the DMV Virtual Office and select “Title Transfers.”
- Upload your completed documents and input vehicle details.
- Pay the required fees using a credit/debit card.
- Monitor your email for updates or additional document requests.
Limitations
There are some limitations you need to observe when requesting an online transfer. You cannot use the online system for:
- Transfers involving leased vehicles
- Vehicles with active liens
- Inherited vehicles processed through probate
- Out-of-state vehicles entering California
If your situation doesn’t qualify, you must visit a DMV field office or process the transfer by mail.
Rush Title Processing
Sometimes, you may need a title processed faster than standard DMV timelines. While California does not offer same-day issuance for new titles, you can request rush title processing through the DMV’s Special Processing Unit.
When to Request Rush Service
- Selling your vehicle out of state
- Replacing a lost title for urgent sale
- Meeting financing or legal deadlines
How to Request It
Submit your completed title application with a Rush Title Processing Request to:
DMV – Special Processing Unit
P.O. Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Include:
- A written request stating why rush processing is needed
- A check or money order for the $15 rush processing fee, in addition to all standard title fees
- Any required documents and forms
Rush titles are typically processed and mailed within 7–10 business days, faster than the standard 15–30 day window.
Resources and Contact Information
To complete your title transfer accurately and on time, use the following DMV resources:
- Title Transfers and Changes – Online at the California DMV
- DMV Virtual Office – Title Transfers
- DMV Customer Service: 1-800-777-0133 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m)
These official links and contacts will help ensure your transfer is processed correctly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Completing a title transfer in California is a legal requirement that protects both the buyer and the seller. Whether purchasing from a private party or being given a vehicle through inheritance or as a gift from a relative, knowing what to do can help you avoid penalties, delays, and future liability.
California’s DMV makes it easy, providing multiple tools to simplify the process, including online services and downloadable forms. From submitting the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability to paying the correct fees and providing a smog certificate, accuracy matters at every step.
Plan ahead, gather your documents, and use the official DMV resources to keep the process smooth. If your transfer involves special circumstances like liens, out-of-state titles, or inheritance, take extra time to follow the specific requirements that apply.
Completing the title transfer promptly helps ensure you stay in compliance and gives you peace of mind about your vehicle ownership.