When filling out the California Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale Form, Both the buyer and seller need to provide contact information, item price, and their signatures to indicate agreement to the contract terms. Both parties should keep a copy of the form as a receipt for the transaction. Must include the Odometer Disclosure Statement Form.
Type of Sale
Vehicle Registration Requirements in California
Timeline for registration
- New owners purchasing through private-party transaction: 10 days
- New residents transferring vehicles from another state: 20 days
Renewal process
Methods of Registering a Vehicle in California:
- In-person registration at a California DMV field office
- Mail-in registration with required documentation.
Mail to the following address:
Department of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 942869
Sacramento, CA 94269-0001
Required Documents for Vehicle Registration
A. Bill of Sale (Form REG 135)
B. Statement of Facts (Form REG 256)
C. Signed Certificate of Title
1. Application for Duplicate or Transfer Title (if applicable)
D. Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343)
E. Valid California Driver’s License
F. Smog and Emissions Inspection from an accredited station
G. Release of Liability (Form REG 138)
H. Registration fees
I. Proof of Insurance with minimum requirements
J. Motor Vehicle Power of Attorney (Form REG 260) if applicable