How To Get a Car Title in California 2026
California law requires all owners of motor vehicles, trailers, and semitrailers to obtain a certificate of title to establish legal ownership. The California Department of Motor Vehicles, operating under the state's Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, administers the vehicle titling system and maintains ownership records for vehicles registered throughout the state. Title applications must be submitted when purchasing a vehicle, transferring ownership, or registering an out-of-state vehicle in California.
Where to Apply for a California Certificate of Title
Applications for a California certificate of title may be submitted through multiple authorized channels:
- DMV Field Offices – Full-service facilities located throughout California's 58 counties; appointments recommended through the online system
- Online Services Portal – Select title transactions available for processing through the department's digital platform
- Mail Processing – Complete applications with supporting documents may be sent to DMV headquarters
- Authorized Business Partners – Licensed vehicle dealers, registration services, and participating financial institutions
- Self-Service Kiosks – Automated terminals at select retail locations for basic registration transactions
Required Documents for Title Application in California
To complete an application for a California certificate of title, applicants must provide specific documentation to verify ownership and comply with state requirements.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Title or Registration | Form REG 343 completed and signed by all registered owners | Must include vehicle identification number, year, make, model, and complete owner information |
| Evidence of Ownership | Valid California title, properly endorsed out-of-state title, or manufacturer's certificate of origin | If title is lost or unavailable, complete Application for Duplicate Title (REG 227) |
| Smog Certification | Valid emissions inspection certificate for applicable vehicles | Required for most gasoline-powered vehicles four model years and older; exemptions apply for certain vehicle types |
| Payment of Fees | Calculated fees including title, registration, and applicable taxes | Total amount determined by vehicle value, weight, and jurisdiction |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on the specific transaction type, additional documentation may be required:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) | Physical inspection confirming vehicle identification | Required for initial California registration, rebuilt vehicles, or when VIN verification needed |
| Lien Satisfaction | Release of security interest from lending institution | Must include vehicle identification number and authorized signature from lienholder |
| Bill of Sale | Documentation of private party transaction | Form REG 135 or equivalent document showing purchase price, date, and signatures of both parties |
| Power of Attorney | Authorization for representative to act on owner's behalf | Must be notarized and specify authority granted |
| Statement of Facts (REG 256) | Explanation for special circumstances or exemption requests | Required for title-only applications, fee exemptions, or documentation discrepancies |
| Odometer Disclosure Statement | Federal requirement for vehicles less than ten years old | Mileage must be recorded on title or separate disclosure form |
California Title Fees and Costs
The California Department of Motor Vehicles assesses standardized fees for title transactions and vehicle registration.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate of Title | $28.00 | Includes electronic title processing |
| Original registration/renewal | $76.00 | Includes Alternative Fuel/Technology Fee ($3.00) |
| California Highway Patrol Fee | $34.00 to $56.00 | Annual assessment for public safety programs |
| Smog Transfer Fee | $8.00 | Charged when smog certification is not required for transfer |
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should be aware of variable costs based on vehicle characteristics:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle License Fee | 0.65% of vehicle value | Calculated on purchase price or assessed value; decreases each year |
| Transportation Improvement Fee | $33.00–$231.00 | Tiered based on vehicle value: $0–$4,999 ($33); $5,000–$24,999 ($66); $25,000–$34,999 ($132); $35,000–$59,999 ($198); $60,000+ ($231) |
| Use Tax | 7.25%–10.25% | Rate varies by county; applies to private party purchases unless exempted |
| Rush Title Processing | $15.00 | Expedited service for urgent requests |
| Replacement Title | $28.00 | Replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged certificates |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Collect Required Documentation
Gather all necessary documents before initiating the application process. Obtain the existing title with proper endorsement from the seller, ensuring all required signatures are present. For vehicles requiring emissions testing, secure a current smog certification from an authorized inspection station.
If transferring an out-of-state vehicle, verify the title is clear of liens or obtain appropriate lien releases. Confirm insurance coverage meets California's minimum liability requirements before proceeding.
Step 2: Complete the Application
Download or obtain Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) and complete all required sections. Enter the complete vehicle identification number, manufacturing year, make, model, and body type. Record all owner names exactly as they should appear on the certificate.
For joint ownership, specify whether the relationship is "and" (requiring all signatures for future transfers) or "or" (allowing any owner to transfer independently). Include lienholder information if the vehicle is financed. All registered owners must sign and date the application.
Step 3: Obtain Vehicle Verification
Vehicles being registered in California for the first time require Verification of Vehicle using Form REG 31. This inspection may be performed by DMV staff at a field office, California Highway Patrol officers, or licensed third-party verifiers.
The verification process confirms the vehicle identification number matches the documentation and checks for evidence of alteration or theft indicators. Specially constructed, rebuilt, or salvage vehicles require additional inspection by the California Highway Patrol before a title is issued.
Step 4: Calculate Total Fees and Submit Payment
Determine the complete amount due using the DMV's fee calculator by entering vehicle details and purchase information. The calculation includes title fees, transfer charges, registration costs, vehicle license fee, transportation improvement fee, and applicable use tax based on your county of residence.
Payment methods include cash at field offices, personal or cashier's check, money order, or credit/debit card with applicable service fees. For mail submissions, include a check or money order payable to "Department of Motor Vehicles."
Step 5: Submit Application and Receive Title
Submit your complete application package through your selected method. For in-person submission, visit any DMV office with all documents and payment during regular business hours. Mail-in applications should be sent to:
Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Operations PO Box 942869, Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
California maintains electronic title records; paper certificates are issued only when no lien exists and upon specific request. Track application status online or by calling the customer service line at (800) 777-0133.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicles are exempt from California's certificate of title requirements:
- Motor vehicles manufactured in model year 1972 or earlier
- Implements of husbandry used exclusively for agricultural operations
- Special construction equipment designed primarily for off-highway use
- Logging vehicles used exclusively in timber harvesting operations
- Cemetery equipment designed for and used only in cemetery operations
- Golf carts operated exclusively on golf course property
- Forklifts crossing highways only for loading purposes, traveling less than one-quarter mile
- Self-propelled wheelchairs and invalid tricycles operated by persons with mobility disabilities
- Vehicles operating in disaster areas under special emergency permits
Contact Information
California Department of Motor Vehicles
2415 1st Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95818
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Official Website: California Department of Motor Vehicles
