How to Register an Out-of-State Car in California

Quick Answer

The checklist

• REG 343, signed by every owner listed on the out-of-state title or registration (for a lease, the leasing company signs).
• Out-of-state title. If you do not surrender it (for example, a lender holds it), California issues a registration marked “Nontransferable” and no California title until the title is submitted.
• Out-of-state registration, the current renewal notice, or a letter from the state where it was last registered.
• REG 31 Verification of Vehicle, completed by an authorized DMV employee, a law enforcement officer or a California-licensed vehicle verifier. We do this at our offices.
• Smog certificate for gas-powered 1976 and newer vehicles (motorcycles are exempt) and certain diesel and natural gas vehicles.
• Weight certificate for commercial vehicles: a REG 4008 for vehicles over 6,001 pounds unladen, and a public weighmaster certificate for some vehicles 10,000 pounds or less unladen.
• Fees: registration, transfer and, in some cases, use tax.

Timing

When you have to register

California expects you to pay registration fees within 20 days of the date they become due, and for a car you bring with you that is generally 20 days after you become a resident or take a job in California. Residency is established by things like renting or buying a home here to live in, registering to vote in California, or paying resident tuition.

Do not wait until every document is in hand. The DMV advises submitting your application and fees on time even if you are still missing a requirement, such as a smog certificate, to avoid late penalties. Late fees start at 10% of the vehicle license fee plus a $10 registration late fee and climb from there; see the full late-penalty table.

Who can keep out-of-state plates

Some people are not considered California residents for registration, such as active-duty military members stationed here who keep their home-state residency, and certain visitors. If you are not sure whether you have to register, call us and we will walk through your situation.

Step by Step

How to register it, start to finish

Step 1. Switch your insurance to a California policy

Your insurer needs to know the car is now garaged in California, and the DMV needs proof of insurance that meets California minimums. Out-of-state policies often do not transfer cleanly. We compare 30+ carriers and can bind a California policy the same day.

Step 2. Get a smog check if your car needs one

Most gas vehicles 1976 and newer need a California smog certificate when they come from out of state. We do not do smog checks, so get it done at a licensed station first. If the car fails, you will need repairs before it can be registered.

Step 3. Get the VIN verified

Bring the car to a DMV office, CHP, or a licensed verifier for the REG 31. At our offices it takes a few minutes and you can finish the rest of the registration in the same visit.

Step 4. Fill out the REG 343

Every owner listed on the out-of-state title or registration signs. Bring the out-of-state title and registration, or the lender’s name and address if the title is held by a bank.

Step 5. Pay the fees and get plates

Registration fees depend on the car’s value, type, weight and where you live. Use tax may also be due, especially if you bought the car outside California recently. Once paid, you get California plates, stickers and a registration card. The title follows by mail if you surrendered the out-of-state title.

Step 6. Return your old plates

The DMV expects out-of-state plates to be surrendered or returned to the issuing state unless they are expired. We will tell you what to do with yours.

Common Questions

Out-of-state registration questions

How long do I have to register my car after moving to California?

Registration fees are due within 20 days of becoming a California resident or taking a job in California. Submit the application and fees on time even if you are still missing something like a smog certificate, so you avoid late penalties.

Do I need a smog check to register an out-of-state car in California?

Usually, yes. Gas-powered vehicles 1976 and newer need a smog certificate, as do certain diesel and natural gas vehicles. Motorcycles and electric vehicles are exempt.

Where can I get a VIN verification in Modesto?

The DMV accepts a REG 31 from an authorized DMV employee, a law enforcement officer, or a California-licensed vehicle verifier. Macias Insurance completes VIN verifications at 1404 and 1511 Crows Landing Road with no appointment.

What if the bank has my title?

Bring your out-of-state registration and the lender’s name and address. California can register the car, but the registration is marked “Nontransferable” and no California title is issued until the out-of-state title is surrendered.

How much does it cost to register an out-of-state car in California?

It depends on the vehicle’s value, type, weight, and your county, plus use tax in some cases. The exact amount is calculated when the application is processed; we can give you the total at the counter before you pay.

Do I need California car insurance to register?

Yes. You need proof of insurance that meets California requirements, currently 30/60/15 liability minimums. We can quote and switch you to a California policy in the same visit.