How to Get Your Car Title in California

Getting your replacement car title in California isn't an easy process. That's why we made this guide to help you in the process of getting a new title to your vehicle!

How to Get Your Car Title in California

If you’re looking to sell your car in the Golden State, you’ll need to have the title. If the original title for your vehicle has been lost, stolen, mutilated, or is now illegible, you’ll need to apply for a new one.

Follow these easy steps and you’ll be well on your way to receiving a duplicate title:

1. Fill out the Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title with the correct name(s) of the car’s owner(s) and the correct address information where the vehicle is registered.

2. You can submit the form by mail or in person (If in person, you will need your driver’s license to verify ownership).

The mailing address is as follows:

Department of Motor Vehicles

Registration Operations

PO Box 942869

Sacramento, CA 94269 – 0001

3. A duplicate title, as of February 8, 2017, is $20.

4. Expect to receive your duplicate title within 15-30 calendar days after you submit your form.

Remember: CashForCars.com cannot purchase a car from anyone other than the person whose name is on the current, legal title. If you currently have a lien (loan) on your vehicle, you will need to pay off the final amount before we can lawfully pay you for the vehicle.

This information is subject to change and is for informational purposes only. Be sure to check with your local DMV to make sure that all processes are the same, or you can visit the California DMV FAQ page.

Situation	Steps to Get a Title	Required Forms	Fees / Notes
1. Bought a Car in California (Private Sale)	1. Get signed title from seller (ensure odometer and sale price are filled in).	- REG 343 (Application for Title or Registration)	- Title transfer fees vary by county and sale price.
	2. Complete Application for Title or Registration (REG 343).		- Smog check usually required unless the vehicle is <4 years old.
	3. Get a smog check (if required).		- New title mailed within a few weeks.
	4. Pay title transfer fees.
	5. Submit all documents to the DMV (in person, by mail, or online).
2. Bringing a Car from Out of State	1. Bring vehicle and documents to DMV.	- REG 343 (Application for Title or Registration)	- Must complete VIN verification in person.
	2. Provide out-of-state title or proof of ownership.	- VIN verification form (REG 31)	- You’ll receive CA plates and a CA title.
	3. Complete REG 343.
	4. Get VIN verification (DMV, CHP, or licensed verifier).
	5. Provide smog check and proof of insurance.
	6. Pay title and registration fees.
3. Lost Title (Duplicate Title Request)	1. Complete Duplicate Title Application (REG 227).	- REG 227 (Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title)	- Fee ≈ $23 (subject to change).
	2. Submit to DMV (mail or in person).		- Replacement title mailed to you.
	3. Pay duplicate title fee.
Where to Submit	- DMV Office (appointment recommended).	—	Visit dmv.ca.gov for appointments, forms, and mailing addresses.
	- By Mail (Sacramento DMV).
	- DMV Authorized Partner (private service, extra fee).