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Registration & Titling

The California DMV issues vehicle registrations and titles in the state, as well as maintains the official vehicle ownership and registration records in California.

Besides establishing the legally registered owner during the sale of a vehicle, the California DMV also takes on the responsibility of regulating and issuing the decals, or tags, that prove that a California vehicle's registration and paperwork are current.

If you lose your California vehicle registration, you will need to file for a replacement through the CA DMV. Other vehicle registration transactions handled by the California Department of Motor Vehicles include: how to register a salvaged car; how to register an imported car; how to renew your registration while in the military; and, how to register antique vehicles or farm equipment.

How to Register Your Car in California	Whether passenger car, commercial vehicle, trailer, or motorcycle, your vehicle must be registered through the CA DMV.
Car Insurance	A requirement to getting a vehicle registered in California is that the owner must provide proof of financial responsibility. In most cases, that means carrying car insurance.
California Title Transfers	Buyers and sellers of vehicles in the state of California must provide information to the California Department of Motor Vehicles before a title transfer can be approved.
California Replacing a Lost Registration	California requires that you be able to show a current registration for any vehicle you drive. If you can’t seem to find yours, find out how to get a duplicate here.
California Replacing a Lost Title	When you sell your vehicle, you’ll need to hand over the California title. If you’ve lost the original, find out how to get a duplicate here.
California License Plate FAQs	Before you head in to the motor vehicle department to ask a question about license plates, check here. We offer lots of answers about California license plates.
Other Types of Vehicles in California	From the smallest to the largest, most all types of vehicles in California require registration. Here’s where you’ll see if you need to register your ATV or snowmobile.
California Registration Renewals	You must renew your vehicle’s registration on a regular cycle. Find out all the regulations about California registration renewals here.
How to Register Your California Boat	On the California boat registration page, you will find boat registration details, change of ownership regulations, and renewal information.
California RV & Motorhome Registration	Before you hit the open road, you'll need to register a new or preowned recreational vehicle through the CA Department of Motor Vehicles.
California Custom-built Car Registration	If you are the proud owner of a custom-built vehicle, you will need to register it through the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Find out how, here.
California Smog & Emission Checks	The California Department of Motor Vehicles regulates how often you need to have your car smog tested, and maintains those compliance records in CA.
California License Plates & Placards	Whether you simply need to renew your license plate decal or you want to see about ordering a custom CA license plate, the CA DMV is the agency that oversees plates.
California Forms	The documents filed at the California DMV are legal and binding―at least until an alteration is necessary. Luckily, most of them are downloadable, right here.
California Bill of Sale	In order to transfer registration at the California Department of Motor Vehicles you'll need certain documents, including the bill of sale forms that may be required.
Vehicle History Reports	Shop smart. Order a Vehicle History Report before you buy to see if it has a clear title, if it is stolen, or if it has been in an accident. A small investment can save you lots of money.
Buying Cars in California	People shopping for for a new or used car need to budget, plan, and research before they pull out the checkbook. Read our guides to find out how to get the best deal for your money.
Selling Cars in California	If your current car just doesn't meet your needs anymore, it may be time to sell it. CA car owners will want to study these guides before they run an ad in the newspaper.
California Locations & Hours	To title your vehicle you need to take care of business at the California DMV. Find the hours and location of the California Department of Motor Vehicles nearest you.
California Registration FAQs	Car registrations are handled by the California Department of Motor Vehicles. From the most common to the highly unusual, your registration questions may be answered here.
Salvaged Vehicles in California	If a vehicle is damaged beyond being safe, it will be classified a salvaged vehicle. But, sometimes a vehicle can be brought back to life. Find out about salvaged vehicles in California.

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