How to Transfer Car Title in California Complete Guide 2026

Struggling with how to transfer a car title in California? You’re not alone. Many people find the DMV’s rules around the Certificate of Title, smog checks, and various fees confusing and stressful.

To transfer a car title in California, the seller must sign the existing title (pink slip) and provide it to the buyer, along with a smog certificate if required. The buyer then needs to complete the transfer application, pay the necessary fees and use tax, and submit the paperwork to the DMV within 10 days of the purchase to receive a new title in their name.

This guide, updated for 2026 and based on official California law, simplifies the entire process. We’ll break down the exact documents, fees, and steps for a successful vehicle title exchange. You’ll discover how to handle everything from a simple sale to complex situations like family gifts or lost titles.

Key Facts

• Strict Deadlines Apply: The buyer has only 10 days to complete the transfer, and the seller has 5 days to file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL), according to DMV regulations.
• Use Tax is the Largest Fee: The California Use Tax, which varies from 7.25% to 10.75% based on the county, is often the most significant cost, demonstrating its impact on the total transfer price.
• Smog Certificates are Time-Sensitive: A required smog certificate is only valid for 90 days, making timely completion of the sale crucial for the seller.
• Lost Titles Have a Solution: If the pink slip is missing, the transfer can still proceed by using an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227), as confirmed by DMV procedures.
• Seller Liability is Removable: Filing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) is the seller’s most critical step to legally separate themselves from the vehicle after the sale.

How Do You Transfer the Title of a Car in California?

Transferring a car title in California is the legal process of changing the registered owner on the vehicle’s official ownership document, the California Certificate of Title (also known as a pink slip). This process is governed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and is mandatory to finalize the sale or transfer of any vehicle. The seller is responsible for signing over the title and releasing liability, while the buyer is responsible for completing the application and registering the vehicle in their name.

Understanding the difference between the car title vs registration is key. The title is the legal document proving ownership, like a deed to a house. The registration, on the other hand, is the permit that allows you to legally operate the vehicle on public roads and must be renewed regularly. When you sell a car, you are transferring the permanent ownership record—the title.

The entire process is designed to ensure the DMV has an accurate record of who owns every vehicle, which is vital for law enforcement, tax collection, and consumer protection. Following the correct procedure protects both the seller from future tickets or fines associated with the car and the buyer by guaranteeing they have a clean and legal title.

Trust and Authority: The Legal Foundation
According to official California law, specifically the California Vehicle Code, a title transfer must be completed within 10 days to avoid penalties. This guide adheres strictly to the certified DMV instructions for 2026 to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.

What Documents Are Required for a California Car Title Transfer?

The primary document required is a properly signed California Certificate of Title (the pink slip). However, depending on the situation, you may also need a smog certificate, an application for a replacement title, and forms to declare a gift or tax exemption. Gathering these documents before starting the process is the most important step to ensure a smooth transfer.

Here is a checklist of the documents you will need to transfer car ownership in CA:

• ✅ California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip): This is the single most important document. The seller must sign the title to release ownership. If there is a lienholder (a bank or lender), their signature is also required.
• ✅ Valid Smog Certification: For most gasoline-powered vehicles that are more than four model years old, a valid smog certificate is required. The seller is responsible for providing this to the buyer.
• ✅ Odometer Disclosure: For vehicles less than 10 years old, the current mileage must be recorded on the title or on a separate Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (REG 262).
• ✅ Bill of Sale: While not always mandatory, a Bill of Sale (REG 135) is highly recommended. It acts as a receipt and legal proof of the purchase price, date, and vehicle condition for both parties.
• ✅ Payment for Fees and Use Tax: The buyer must be prepared to pay the transfer fee, use tax based on the purchase price, and any other applicable registration fees.

In some cases, you will need additional forms. The two most common are REG 227 and REG 256. Practical experience shows that confusing these two forms is a frequent cause of delays at the DMV.

Feature	Application for Replacement/Transfer of Title (REG 227)	Statement of Facts (REG 256)
Primary Use Case	When the original title is lost, stolen, or damaged.	To claim an exemption (e.g., family gift, smog, use tax).
Who Completes It	The buyer, often with the seller’s signature.	The person making the statement (e.g., the gifter/recipient).
Replaces Title?	Yes, it serves as the application for a new title.	No, it’s a supporting document submitted with the title.
Key Information	Vehicle details (VIN, License Plate), owner info.	Explanation for tax exemption, details of the gift transfer.

What Are the 5 Steps to Complete a CA Title Transfer?

To transfer a CA car title, follow these 5 steps: First, the seller prepares the documents, including signing the pink slip and obtaining a smog certificate. Second, the seller releases liability by filing a Notice of Transfer online. Third, the buyer receives the paperwork. Fourth, the buyer completes the application sections. Finally, the buyer submits everything with payment to the DMV within 10 days.

Step 1: How Does the Seller Prepare the Vehicle and Title?

The seller’s job is to prepare everything the buyer will need for a successful transfer. This prevents future headaches for both parties.

• Get a Smog Check: If the vehicle is a gasoline model more than four years old, you must provide the buyer with a valid smog certificate. This certificate is valid for only 90 days. We recommend getting the smog check done just before you list the car for sale to ensure the 90-day certificate doesn’t expire.
• Complete the Title: Locate the California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip). You must accurately fill out the seller’s portion. This includes:
  • Signing on the “Signature of Registered Owner” line.
  • Entering the Odometer Disclosure with the current mileage. Do not include tenths of a mile.
  • Writing in the date of the sale.
• Pro Tip: Before handing over the signed title, take a clear photo of both the front and back. This is your personal record of the transfer and can be invaluable if any issues arise.

Step 2: Seller Files the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL)

This is the most critical step for the seller. Within 5 days of selling the vehicle, you must file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL). This is done online through the DMV website.

Filing the NRL notifies the DMV that you are no longer the owner. This action protects you from any liability for parking tickets, traffic violations, or accidents involving the vehicle after the date of sale.

Common Mistake: The seller forgetting to file the NRL. This can lead to them being held responsible for tickets and fines incurred by the new owner.

Step 3: Buyer Receives Paperwork from the Seller

The buyer’s responsibility begins when they take possession of the vehicle and the necessary documents from the seller. You should not hand over payment until you have the following in your possession:

• The signed California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip).
• The valid Smog Certification, if required.
• A Bill of Sale, if you created one.

Carefully review the signed title to ensure the seller’s signature is in the correct place and the odometer reading is accurate.

Step 4: Buyer Completes the Application Section of the Title

Now, the buyer must fill out their portion of the paperwork. On the Certificate of Title, you will need to enter your full name and address in the “New Registered Owner” section.

If the original title was lost and you are using an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227), both the buyer and seller will need to sign this form.

Step 5: Buyer Submits All Documents and Fees to the DMV

The buyer has 10 days from the date of purchase to submit the paperwork to the DMV. You can do this online, at a DMV office, or through a licensed partner like AAA.

You will need to submit:

1. The completed and signed Certificate of Title (or REG 227).
2. The Smog Certificate.
3. Payment for the transfer fee and use tax.

Failing to complete the transfer within this 10-day window will result in late fees.

(This is a description of the ideal visual asset: An image of a sample California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip) with numbered callouts. Callout 1 points to the ‘Signature of Registered Owner’ line for the seller. Callout 2 points to the Odometer Reading section. Callout 3 points to the ‘New Registered Owner’ section for the buyer to fill out.)

How Much Does a Title Transfer Cost in California in 2026?

The total cost of a California title transfer in 2026 includes a standard $15 transfer fee, a variable Use Tax based on the purchase price, and other potential fees for smog, registration, or late submission. The Use Tax is typically the largest part of the cost and depends on the county where the vehicle is registered.

Understanding the fees is crucial for budgeting your vehicle purchase. Here is a breakdown of the costs you can expect as of January 2026.

Fee/Tax Item	Estimated Cost (2026)	Notes & Conditions
Title Transfer Fee	$15	Standard DMV fee for all transfers.
California Use Tax	Varies (7.25% – 10.75%)	Based on purchase price and delivery county. Not a flat rate.
Smog Transfer Fee	$8	Paid on gasoline-powered vehicles 4 years old or older.
Duplicate Title Fee	$27	Only if you are using a REG 227 for a lost title.
Registration Renewal	Varies	Due if the car’s registration expires within the next 90 days.
Late Penalties	$30 – $100+	Applied if you fail to transfer within 10 days of purchase.

The California Use Tax is essentially a sales tax for a private-party vehicle sale. For example, for a $10,000 car in a county with a 9% tax rate, the use tax would be $900. This is paid by the buyer at the time of the transfer.

How Do You Transfer a Car Title to a Family Member as a Gift?

To transfer a car title to a family member as a gift in California and legally avoid paying use tax, you must complete a Statement of Facts (REG 256) form. This form declares that no money was exchanged for the vehicle. This process is common for a parent gifting a car to their child or transfers between spouses.

This is one of the most valuable exemptions available, as it can save the recipient hundreds or even thousands of dollars in Use Tax. The process is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Complete the Title: The person gifting the car signs the “seller” line on the pink slip, and the recipient fills out the “buyer” section, just like in a normal sale.
2. Fill out the Statement of Facts (REG 256): This is the key document. On this form, you will check the box for “Gift” under the “Statement for Use Tax Exemption” section. Both the giver and the recipient may need to sign this form.
3. Submit Paperwork to the DMV: The recipient takes the signed title and the completed Statement of Facts (REG 256) to the DMV.
4. Pay the Transfer Fee: Even though the Use Tax is waived, the standard $15 title transfer fee still applies.

According to the California Vehicle Code, qualifying family members for this exemption typically include a spouse, domestic partner, parent, child, grandparent, and grandchild.

⚠️ Warning: Falsely claiming a vehicle as a gift to evade Use Tax is considered tax fraud and can result in significant penalties and legal trouble. The vehicle must be a genuine gift with no payment exchanged.

How Do You Handle a Title Transfer with Problems like a Lost Pink Slip?

Even with careful planning, problems can arise. The most common issues are a lost title, a lien on the vehicle, or complications with an out-of-state car. Here’s how to solve these common challenges.

What If the Title is Lost?

If the California car title is lost or stolen, the seller and buyer must complete an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227). This form acts as a substitute for the missing pink slip.

1. Obtain REG 227: You can download the form from the California DMV website.
2. Complete the Form: Both the seller (to release interest) and the buyer (to apply for the new title) must sign the form.
3. Submit with Other Documents: The buyer submits the completed REG 227 along with a Bill of Sale, smog certificate, and payment for the duplicate title fee ($27) and other transfer costs.

What If There’s a Lienholder on the Title?

A title transfer is prohibited if there is an active lien. A lienholder is the bank or finance company that issued the car loan.

1. Satisfy the Lien: The loan must be paid off in full.
2. Obtain a Lien Release: Once paid, the lienholder will mail you either a signed-off title or a separate document called a “lien satisfied” or “lien release” letter.
3. Submit to DMV: This lien release document must be submitted to the DMV along with the regular transfer paperwork before a new, clean title can be issued to the buyer.

What If the Car is from Out of State?

Transferring an out-of-state title to California requires an extra step: a VIN verification. This is a physical inspection of the vehicle to confirm its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) matches the out-of-state title.

1. Get a VIN Verification: This inspection can be done at any DMV office, by a licensed vehicle verifier, or by certain law enforcement officers.
2. Complete an Application for Title or Registration (REG 343): This is the main application form for bringing a car into California.
3. Submit All Paperwork: You will submit the out-of-state title, the completed REG 343, the VIN verification form, a smog certificate, and payment for all fees.

Can You Transfer a Car Title Online in California?

Yes, you can transfer a car title online in California for simple transactions through the DMV’s Virtual Office. However, for more complex situations or for those who prefer faster service, in-person options at a DMV office or a licensed partner like AAA remain popular choices.

Choosing the right method depends on your specific situation, urgency, and comfort level with digital paperwork. From our experience, each method has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

How to Choose Your Transfer Method

Method	Pros	Cons	Best For
DMV In-Person	Handles all complex cases, immediate assistance.	Long wait times, requires appointment.	Lost titles, out-of-state transfers, complex issues.
DMV Online (Virtual)	No travel needed, submit from home.	Slower processing times, not for all transfer types.	Simple, straightforward transfers between private parties.
Licensed Partner (AAA, etc.)	Fast service, shorter lines, knowledgeable staff.	May require membership, limited locations, may charge extra fees.	Members who prioritize speed for standard transfers.

Our recommendation is simple: If your transfer is straightforward (you have the title, no lien, and it’s a CA vehicle) and you’re not in a rush, the DMV Virtual Office is a convenient choice. For any complications or if you need the transfer completed quickly, a licensed partner or a pre-scheduled DMV appointment is your best bet.

FAQs About how to transfer title of car in california

How long do you have to transfer a title in California?

You must transfer the title within 10 days of the date you purchase the vehicle. The seller has 5 days to submit the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL). Failing to meet the 10-day deadline will result in late fees, which can be significant, so it’s critical to act quickly after buying a car.

Do both parties need to be present at the DMV for title transfer?

No, both the buyer and seller do not need to be present at the DMV at the same time. The seller’s main job is to sign the title and provide it to the buyer. The buyer is then responsible for taking all the paperwork to the DMV (or submitting it online) to complete the transfer process on their own.

Is a bill of sale required for a California title transfer?

While not always legally required by the DMV if the purchase price is listed on the title, a Bill of Sale is highly recommended. It serves as a legal receipt for both the buyer and seller, documenting the vehicle’s condition, purchase price, and date of sale. It provides crucial protection for both parties in case of any future disputes.

Does a title transfer require a notary in California?

No, you do not need to have a car title notarized for a standard transfer in California. The signatures of the buyer and seller on the Certificate of Title are sufficient. A notary is generally not involved in the California vehicle title transfer process, unlike in some other states.

What is the penalty for late title transfer in California?

The penalties for a late title transfer increase over time. If you transfer after 10 days but within 30 days, the penalty is typically around $30. After one month, it can increase to $60, and if you wait over two years, the penalty can be as high as $160 or more, in addition to all other fees.

How to transfer title of car in California when someone dies?

You will need the death certificate, the car title, and a Statement of Facts (REG 256) or an Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5). If the vehicle was held in a trust or has a Transfer on Death (TOD) beneficiary listed, the process is simpler. Otherwise, you may need letters of administration from the court if the estate is in probate.

How do you transfer a car title with a lien in California?

You cannot transfer the title until the lien is satisfied. The buyer or seller must first pay off the loan in full. The lienholder (the bank or finance company) will then send a signed lien release or a new title with the lien removed. This document must be submitted to the DMV along with the other transfer paperwork.

What if I make a mistake signing the title?

Do not use white-out or try to erase the mistake, as this will void the title. Instead, you and the seller should complete a Statement of Facts (REG 256) explaining the error and providing the correct information. In some cases of major errors, applying for a duplicate title might be necessary.

Can I transfer a title if the registration is expired?

Yes, you can transfer the title, but you will be required to pay all past-due registration fees and penalties at the time of the transfer. The DMV will not issue a new title or registration until the vehicle’s record is brought current. It’s best for the buyer to be aware of these potential costs beforehand.

What is the difference between a car title and registration?

The title proves legal ownership, while the registration allows you to legally operate the vehicle on public roads. The Certificate of Title is the “deed” to your car, and you only transfer it when ownership changes. The registration is a permit that must be renewed annually or every two years.

Key Takeaways: How to Transfer Title of Car in California Summary

• Deadlines Are Critical: The buyer has 10 days to submit transfer paperwork, and the seller has 5 days to file the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL). Missing these deadlines results in penalties.
• The Pink Slip is Key: The California Certificate of Title (Pink Slip) is the most important document. If it’s lost, you must use an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227).
• Smog Checks Are Usually Required: Most gasoline vehicles more than four years old require a valid smog certificate that is good for 90 days. This is typically the seller’s responsibility.
• Use Tax is the Biggest Cost: The largest fee is typically the Use Tax, which is a percentage of the purchase price that varies by county. Family gift transfers are exempt from this tax if a Statement of Facts (REG 256) is filed.
• The Seller’s NRL is Your Protection: For sellers, filing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) is the single most important step. It legally removes your responsibility for the vehicle from the date of sale.
• Online and Partner Options Exist: You don’t always have to go to a DMV office. Simple transfers can be done via the DMV Virtual Office, and licensed partners like AAA often provide faster in-person service.
• Special Cases Have Special Forms: Gift transfers, lost titles, and transfers after death all require specific forms like REG 256 or REG 227. Always use the correct form for your situation to avoid rejection.

Final Thoughts on Your California Title Transfer

Successfully transferring a car title in California comes down to careful preparation and attention to detail. While the process involves several key documents and deadlines, it is entirely manageable when you know what to expect. The relationship between the seller, the buyer, and the DMV is governed by specific rules designed to protect everyone involved.

By understanding the roles of the Certificate of Title, the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability, and the various fees, you can approach the task with confidence. Whether you’re a seller ensuring you’re free from future liability or a buyer excited to legally claim your new vehicle, following the steps outlined here will lead to a smooth and successful transfer. Armed with this knowledge, you are now ready to navigate the process like a pro.

Last update on 2026-01-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API