How To Register A Car Purchased Out Of State In California

To register a new car in california fill out a title app with the seller if you re buying from a dealership which will take care of the registration process.

How to register a car purchased out of state in california. To take over ownership of a vehicle you will need. If you need to register a vehicle for use on california roadways waterways or trailways you ve come to the right place. How to register your vehicle in california visit a local ca dmv office. Cross state title transfer forms application for title or registration. The vehicle s title sometimes referred to as a pink slip signed by the person selling the car.

Step 4 wait for the clerk to look over your documents to make sure everything is in order. Present your title bill of sale and photo id to the clerk at the dmv or county clerk office to get your new title and registration. You must register your vehicle from out of state with the california dmv within 20 days after you brought it into the state and remain as the owner of the vehicle or within 20 days after purchasing an out of state or non resident vehicle in california to avoid penalties. Tell the clerk that you purchased the vehicle out of state and need to title and register it in your name. This is the same fee charged for obtaining a new certificate.

Make sure to bring confirmation that you own the car your driver s license and proof of insurance to your appointment. Next drive the car to your nearest smog station to make sure it passes california s emission regulations. If the vehicle has less than 7 500 miles click here. Present proof of ownership and a smog certificate. Dealership purchase if you bought from a licensed dealer certain registration tasks may be taken care of for you.

New vehicles can not be registered in california unless they are 50 state emissions certified. Any type of smog station can inspect and certify your out of state vehicle smog check repair center smog test only center or any star certified smog station so long as it s a used vehicle with at least 7 500 miles. After your vehicle has been inspected visit the dmv with the inspection certification your sales paperwork photo identification and proof of address. Alternatively make an appointment at your local dmv field office. To register your out of state car in california start by locating your current title or registration and bill of sale to prove that you own your car.

These documents will allow you to register.