If you’re moving to California and need to register an out-of-state car, there are several steps and requirements involved with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process smoothly:
🚗 1. When to Register
California law requires that new residents register their out-of-state vehicle within 20 days of establishing residency or bringing the vehicle into the state.
🧾 2. Essential Documents & Forms
Prepare the following before your DMV visit:
Application for Title or Registration – Form REG 343, filled out and signed by all owners
Out-of-state title or last registration certificate, or bill of sale if title unavailable
Proof of insurance meeting California minimum requirements
If the title is unavailable due to financing, California may issue a “goldenrod” registration, and once paid off you can convert it to full registration.
🔍 3. Inspections & Verification Requirements
VIN Verification (Form REG 31): Must be completed by a licensed California DMV employee, CHP officer, or licensed verifier. Police departments have occasionally performed this for residents out of state.
Smog Check: Required for most gasoline vehicles 1976 and newer, diesel 1998 and newer under 14K lbs.
Exemptions include hybrids, electric vehicles, and gasoline-powered cars under 4 years old — but note: the 8‑year smog exception doesn’t apply to out-of-state vehicles on their first registration.
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💰 4. Fees & Use Tax
Expect to pay:
Registration Fee
Title Transfer Fee
Use Tax: Based on purchase price and county’s rate. You may get credit for taxes already paid in the previous state.
CHP fee, smog abatement fee, non-resident service fees, zero-emission parking fees, etc. .
✅ Quick Summary Table
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Deadline | Within 20 days of entry / residency |
| Forms & Ownership Documents | REG 343, out-of-state title/registration |
| VIN Verification | Required via DMV/CHP/licensed verifier |
| Smog Check | Required unless exempt; 8‑year exemption doesn’t apply first registration |
| Proof of Insurance | California liability insurance required |
| Fees & Use Tax | Registration, title, use tax (credit for paid taxes), special fees apply |
📌 Tips & Extra Info
You don’t need a California driver’s license to register, but if you’re now residing in California, you’ll need one within 10 days.
Goldenrod registration is available if the title is held by a lienholder.
AAA cannot register out-of-state purchases, you must go through the DMV.
Avoid delaying registration: using out-of-state plates after becoming a CA resident may violate insurance agreements and state rules.
🚀 What to Do Next
Assemble your documents (REG 343, title/reg, insurance, bill of sale).
Schedule smog check (if required).
Get VIN verified.
Book a DMV appointment.
Pay fees and receive your CA title, registration, and plates.
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