How do I transfer my license and car after moving in California?
Reviewed 2026-10-01 · Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Ava's answer
Just moved to California? Driver license deadline: 10 days. Vehicle title and registration deadline: 20 days.
Starting fee
Not verified
Where
Online or in person
Steps
7 steps
- Know your deadlines: Driver license: 10 days. Vehicle title and registration: 20 days.
- Determine if you meet California residency criteria:
- Apply for a California driver's license within 10 days of becoming a resident:
- Register out-of-state vehicle within 20 days of becoming a resident or bringing vehicle into state:
- Vehicle must meet California emission control requirements:
- Create a MyDMV account to complete many transactions online:
- Obtain plates, decals, or placards as needed:
Ready to submit? Official California site
Your California checklist
Tick items off as you go. Saved on this device only.
Steps
Documents to bring
Fees
We haven't verified California fees for this task yet. Check the official page.
Where to go in person
Helpful services for this task
Optional, privately operated services related to new resident guide. Not government services, not required, and not endorsed by any agency. DMV.ai may be paid when you use them.
Find licensed providers in California
Official state lists of licensed businesses. Not sponsored, not ranked, and DMV.ai isn't paid for these links.
No reviewed services are listed for this task and state yet. Listings appear only after identity, terms, disclosures and links pass review.
Related
Was this answer helpful?
Source
New California Resident Portal / Section 11: Vehicle Registration Requirements · California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) · reviewed 2026-10-01
Limitations: Summarized from the official agency page on October 1, 2026; not yet reviewed by a person. Deadlines marked "not stated" were not found on that page. The official page is the final word.
DMV.ai is independent and not a government agency. It does not file applications or collect government fees. Confirm current requirements with the official agency. Report an issue