Transfer a vehicle title in California
What to do, in order, when a vehicle changes hands. DMV.ai prepares and explains — it does not file, pay or submit anything, and it is not a government agency.
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Your steps
0 of 6 doneThese steps describe the general process. Deadlines, fees and required forms differ by state and appear below only when DMV.ai has checked them against an official source.
What DMV.ai has verified for California
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Find a California office
Search by city or ZIP to choose an office. Check its official page for current services and hours before you go; appointments and availability are handled by California DMV.
California questions
When must I report a California vehicle title transfer?
California DMV says a change in ownership must be reported and the title updated within 10 days. The seller separately must file a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability within five calendar days of selling or transferring the vehicle.
Source: California DMV title transfersDoes filing the seller's release of liability transfer the title?
No. California DMV says filing the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability is not itself a transfer of ownership. The buyer still needs to complete the title-transfer process.
Source: California DMV release of liabilityWhat if the California title is missing?
California DMV says you must complete its Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) first. Check the DMV's title-transfer page for the current form and instructions before you submit anything.
Source: California DMV title transfersDMV.ai is independent guidance. Confirm your exact transaction with California DMV.
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Every state has its own page. What DMV.ai shows there is limited to what it has verified against an official source for that state.