What you need to do to transfer a California vehicle title
To transfer a vehicle title in California, you fill out a form called the process for Title or Registration (Form REG 343), gather documents proving ownership and identity, and submit them to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) along with the transfer fee. The process differs slightly depending on whether you're buying a used car from a private seller, inheriting a vehicle, receiving one as a gift, or buying from a dealer — dealers handle most of the paperwork for you, but private sales require you to do the work yourself.
The timeline varies. If you submit everything in person at a DMV office, you may leave with a temporary registration that day, though the permanent title arrives by mail in two to four weeks. If you mail your documents, expect four to six weeks total. The fee is currently $15 for a title transfer, though this can change and may be higher if you're also registering the vehicle for the first time in California.
Key Takeaways
- You must submit Form REG 343 (process for Title or Registration), the signed title from the previous owner, and proof of your identity to the California DMV.
- Private sales require you to get the seller's signature on the title in the correct boxes before you submit anything to the DMV.
- If you buy from a dealer, the dealer typically handles the title transfer for you as part of the sale, though you still pay the DMV fee.
- Submitting documents in person at a DMV office is faster than mailing them, and you can get a temporary registration the same day.
- California requires a smog check certificate for most used vehicles before you can transfer the title, unless the car is brand new or exempt.
What documents the seller must provide
The previous owner must sign the title in the correct transfer boxes. On a California title, there are specific lines for the seller's signature, printed name, and date. If the title has multiple owners listed, all of them must sign unless the title shows "or" between names (which means either one can sign). If it shows "and," all owners must sign.
The seller should also provide you with the original title document itself — not a copy. If the title is lost or damaged, the seller can request a duplicate from the DMV before the sale, but this adds time. You also need the seller's printed name and address, which should match what's on the title. Ask the seller for any service records or maintenance history they have, though these aren't required by the DMV.
Your documents and what to gather
You need proof of identity, such as a California driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You also need proof of California residency — this can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and address. If your address on your ID doesn't match your current address, bring both the ID and the residency proof.
If you're financing the vehicle, bring the loan agreement or a letter from your lender showing the vehicle identification number (VIN) and loan details. If someone else is co-titling the vehicle with you, that person must also be present with their own ID and residency proof, or you must have their signed consent on the process form.
You'll also need the smog check certificate, which is a separate document issued by a certified smog technician. Most used vehicles in California require a smog check before title transfer. New vehicles and vehicles over 1975 are exempt, as are some other categories. The smog check must be done within 30 days before you submit your title transfer documents.
How to complete the process form
The form you need is Form REG 343, available on the California DMV website or at any DMV office. Print it and fill it out by hand in black or blue ink — do not use pencil. The form asks for the vehicle's VIN, license plate number (if it has one), the current owner's name and address, the new owner's name and address, and the odometer reading.
In the "Previous Owner" section, enter the seller's name and address exactly as it appears on the title. In the "New Owner" section, enter your information. If you're buying the vehicle with someone else and both names will appear on the new title, list both names and addresses. Sign and date the form yourself — the seller does not sign this form, only the title document itself.
If you're unsure about any field, leave it blank rather than guessing. The DMV will contact you if information is missing, which delays processing. You can also call the California DMV at 1-800-777-0133 or visit a local office to ask questions before submitting.
Where and how to submit your documents
You can submit your documents in three ways: in person at a California DMV office, by mail to the DMV, or through an authorized third party such as a vehicle registration service or some auto dealerships. Submitting in person is fastest — you can often get a temporary registration the same day and leave knowing your process was received correctly.
To submit by mail, send your completed Form REG 343, the signed title, your proof of identity, proof of residency, the smog check certificate, and the $15 fee (check or money order made out to "Department of Motor Vehicles") to the DMV address listed on the form. Keep copies of everything for your records. Mail delivery takes time, so allow extra weeks for processing.
If you use a third-party service, that business will collect your documents and submit them on your behalf, usually for an additional fee. This is convenient if you don't have time to visit a DMV office, but it costs more and takes longer than submitting in person.
What happens after you submit
If you submitted in person, you'll receive a temporary registration document (usually printed on the spot) that's valid for up to 30 days. This allows you to drive the vehicle legally while the DMV processes your title transfer. Keep this temporary registration in your vehicle.
The permanent title arrives by mail at the address you listed on the process, typically within two to four weeks. Your new registration card and license plates (if you requested new plates) also arrive by mail. If you submitted by mail, the entire process takes four to six weeks before you receive anything.
If the DMV finds an error or missing information, they'll send you a notice asking you to correct it. Respond promptly to avoid further delays. If you don't hear from the DMV within the expected timeframe, you can check the status of your process on the California DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
Special situations: gifts, inheritance, and dealer purchases
If someone is giving you the vehicle as a gift, the process is the same as a private sale — the giver signs the title over to you, and you submit the same documents. However, the DMV may ask for proof that it was a gift and not a sale. A signed letter from the giver stating the vehicle is a gift, or a bill of sale marked "gift" with both signatures, can serve as proof.
If you inherit a vehicle, the process is different and depends on whether the deceased person's estate went through probate. If it did, you'll need a court document showing you inherited the vehicle. If it didn't, you may need a certified copy of the death certificate and a statement from the estate. Contact the California DMV or a probate attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
If you buy from a licensed dealer, the dealer almost always handles the title transfer for you. You sign the paperwork at the dealership, pay the DMV fee to the dealer, and the dealer submits everything to the DMV. You'll still receive a temporary registration at the dealership and the permanent title by mail. Make sure the dealer gives you a receipt showing they've submitted your transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smog check if I'm buying a brand new car?
No. Brand new vehicles are exempt from the smog check requirement. Vehicles manufactured in 1975 or earlier are also exempt. If you're unsure whether your vehicle is exempt, the smog technician can tell you when you call to schedule, or you can ask the DMV.
What if the seller's name on the title doesn't match their ID?
This is a red flag. Ask the seller to explain the discrepancy and request documentation showing the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). The seller may need to update their name with the DMV before they can transfer the title to you. Do not proceed with the purchase until this is resolved.
Can I drive the vehicle before the title transfer is complete?
Yes, if you have the temporary registration. If you submitted in person, you get it the same day. If you submitted by mail, you should not drive the vehicle until you receive the temporary registration by mail. Driving without valid registration is illegal in California.
How much does a California vehicle title transfer cost?
The DMV fee for a title transfer is currently $15. If you're also registering the vehicle for the first time in California or requesting new license plates, there are additional fees. Fees can change, so check the California DMV website or call 1-800-777-0133 for the current amount.
What if I bought the car but the seller won't sign the title?
If the seller refuses to sign, you do not own the vehicle legally and should not take possession of it. Do not give the seller money until the title is signed. If you've already paid and the seller won't cooperate, you may need to pursue a civil claim or contact local law enforcement. Consult an attorney if this happens.