Transferring your car's title is a vital part of the buying process. It's how you officially change ownership. While it might seem overwhelming at first, it's easy to do with a little preparation and the right information. This guide from our team at Jim Burke Lincoln breaks down what title transfers are, how to transfer a car's title in California, and how to handle common problems when transferring a title.
Understanding Car Title Transfers in California
A car's certificate of title, or simply title, is a legal document that proves you own your vehicle. It lists key details about your car, including the vehicle identification number or VIN, make, model, and year. The California DMV issues several types of titles:
- Clean titles for vehicles without loans
- Lienholder titles for vehicles with loans
- Electronic titles for newer transactions
When Is a Title Transfer Necessary?
There are several situations where you'll need to transfer a car's title. Most often, it happens when you buy or sell a vehicle, whether it's through a private sale or at a dealership. Other common scenarios include giving a car to family or friends and inheriting one from someone who has passed away. Whether you're selling your car or are getting one as a gift, the title must be in the name of the person who possesses the vehicle.
You also need to update your car's title if you're adding or removing names, paying off a loan, or donating your car to charity. According to the California DMV, you have 10 days to update ownership records. Afterward, you could be facing late fees, penalties, or other legal trouble, so don't wait. Start the process as soon as possible.
Preparing for a Title Transfer
Before heading to the DMV, you need to gather the right paperwork:
- The current California Certificate of Title with the seller's signature
- An Application for Transfer of Title or Registration (REG 227) form
- The bill of sale (for new purchases)
- Your driver's license
- The vehicle's information (plate number, VIN, make, model, and year)
- Original purchase date and price
Many vehicles need a recent smog check certificate. In California, these checks generally happen every two years and during ownership changes, but some cars are exempt, such as:
- Gas-powered vehicles from before 1975
- Diesel-powered vehicles from before 1997 or that weigh over 14,000 pounds
- Electric vehicles
- Cars less than 8 years old
- Large natural gas vehicles
If your car doesn't fit these categories, you'll need to complete a smog check before transferring your title.
How To Transfer a Car Title in California
You can transfer a California vehicle title either in person or online for some transactions. If you're buying a car in person, first get the seller to sign the title to release ownership and fill out a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form. Then, take that signed title and form to the DMV office.
For online transfers, you'll need the license plate number, the last five digits of the VIN, the registration zip code, and an email address. The California DMV's website will walk you through each step, saving you a trip to the office. Pay close attention when filling out the title certificate. Triple-check the odometer reading and make sure you have all the required signatures. One small mistake can cause significant delays, so getting everything right the first time will prevent problems in the future.
Special Title Transfer Situations
Depending on your specific situation, you might need additional information, and there may be additional regulations to consider:
- Inheriting a vehicle after someone dies: For a nonprobate transfer, the car's value can't exceed $166,250, at least 40 days must have passed since the death, and the car must have a California title. Only beneficiaries, guardians, conservators, and trustees qualify as transferees.
- Transferring a title to a family member: This often comes with tax breaks, fee discounts, and simpler paperwork compared to standard transfers.
- Bringing an out-of-state title to California: This may involve extra steps, including VIN verification.
- Transferring titles for motorcycles, trailers, or other nonstandard vehicles: The basic steps are similar, but you might need different forms depending on what you're registering.
Always double-check with the DMV about these special cases since the requirements occasionally change.
How Much Does a Car Title Transfer Cost?
Transferring a car title in California comes with many different fees. A basic title transfer costs $15 for most passenger vehicles, but you'll also pay use tax based on the purchase price, which begins at 7.25% and depends on your county. Smog checks can cost anywhere from $30-$70. Also, remember to stay within that 10-day window to avoid additional late fees.
The DMV accepts several payment methods, such as cash, checks, money orders, and most major credit cards. Keep in mind that fees change over time, so always check the latest rates on the California DMV website before starting your paperwork.
What To Expect After the Title Transfer
After handing over all your documents and paying the fees, the DMV will process your title transfer. They'll update the vehicle record to show the ownership change and give you a temporary registration card. You should receive the physical title within 60 days of the transfer, depending on when the DMV headquarters mails it to you.
While waiting for your title to arrive, update your vehicle registration and inform your insurance company. Keep copies of everything related to the transfer, including the temporary registration from the DMV. If you don't get the new title after two months, call the DMV.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, problems can still emerge. Below is an overview of common issues with California DMV title transfers and how to handle them:
- Lost or damaged title: You can get a replacement online, by mail, or at the DMV in person. You'll fill out an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) form, show your ID, and pay about $23 (fees vary by vehicle type).
- Errors on the title: Gather supporting documents (such as CARFAX records) and call the California DMV for advice.
- Still owe money on the car: Work with your lender to handle the title transfer properly.
- Missing some required paperwork: Contact the DMV right away for guidance.
Check everything twice before submitting your paperwork. Most delays are due to small errors that you could have caught with a quick review.
Transfer Your Title With Jim Burke Lincoln
Transferring a car title in California is simple if you follow the right steps and submit accurate paperwork. The California DMV's website offers several helpful resources, and you can submit questions if you run into issues. If you're looking for a new ride and want help buying and transferring your title, visit us at Jim Burke Lincoln in Bakersfield. Our expert team is here to help, and we'd love to show you our selection of quality vehicles.
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