Registering a motorcycle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles is basically the same as that for registering a car. You'll need proof of ownership (like your title, or the name and address of the lienholder, if you have a loan); and insurance. Unlike cars, however, motorcycles do not require a smog check.

Top Changing Owners

Once you purchase a motorcycle, new or used, you will need to transfer the title into your name at the DMV within 10 days. If you buy your new ride from a dealership, the dealer should complete the DMV paperwork to transfer the title and register the motorcycle for you.

If the sale is between private parties, then you must handle the title transfer and registration paperwork yourself. You'll need to fill out an Application for Title and Registration and take it in person to your local DMV office (to save time, it's best to make an appointment).

Depending on the circumstance, you might also be required to pay a use tax (see below) and provide additional documentation, especially if the motorcycle is a custom bike.

Top Title and Registration Fees

California's vehicle registration fees are quite complex. The fee depends on a number of factors, including the price you paid and how long you've owned it.

When you first register, California charges a use tax based on your county of residence. To figure your use tax, consult the registration fee calculator and follow the prompts to figure your registration fees. The calculator works for new and used motorcycles. Generally, the longer you've owned your bike, the less you have to pay.

In addition, on May 19, 2009, California will increase the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) to 1.15 percent of vehicle value, up from 0.65 percent. The calculator will be changed to reflect this. Expect to pay approximately $5 more per $1,000 of vehicle value. For instance, if your motorcycle is worth $3,000, then expect to pay $15 more in fees.

New to the State

You must register your motorcycle within 20 days of establishing residency. Failure to do so will result in penalty fees.

Top Scooters and Mopeds

All scooters and mopeds, regardless of how many cc's, must be registered. A motorized bicycle with pedals and an electric motor not more than 1,000 watts, is the lone exception to mandatory registration.

Specialty Plates

Just like with cars, you can get specialty and personalized license plates for your motorcycle in California. These plates cost more than regular plates, depending on the design you choose.

Title Info

For the title itself, you'll have to pay a $15 transfer fee. If the title is lost, it costs $17 for a duplicate. If you have a loan on the bike, the lender will either hold onto the title or store it electronically with the DMV; it'll be sent to you when the bike's paid off.

Top Registration Renewals

Each year, the DMV sends you a registration renewal. Depending on your situation, you may renew in person at your local DMV office, by mail, or online. Your renewal options and paperwork requirements are the same as for renewing a car registration.

After you pay the current fees, you'll get registration stickers with the expiration date printed on them. You must affix the stickers to your license plate.

Top Nonoperational Motorcycle

If your bike's broken but you can't bear to part with it, you may register your nonoperational motorcycle for the low, low price of $17 annually. For more details on nonoperational registration, see the DMV's Fast Facts brochure.

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