How To Transfer A Car Title To A Family Member In California

Understanding Car Title Transfers to Family Members in California

There are three major differences between a regular title transfer and a family transfer:

• Family transfers are tax-exempt unless they’re between adult siblings.
• Family transfers don’t require a new smog certification if the car has a current one.
• Family transfers don’t require the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to reassess the car’s value.

Understanding how to transfer a car title to a family member in California can save you both time and money.

Who Qualifies as a Family Member for Title Transfer in California?

You’ll want to first see if the recipient qualifies as a family member for the purposes of the transfer. A family transfer happens when you transfer a car to one of the following:

• Spouse
• Child
• Parent
• Sibling
• Grandparent
• Grandchild

Transfers between more distant relatives, like cousins, don’t qualify as “family transfers” under the law.

Documents Required for a Family Car Title Transfer

Before completing your transfer, gather the following:

• Signed-over title
• Statement of Facts (REG 256) form
• Smog certification, if applicable
• Odometer disclosure statement, if needed

Both the person transferring the car and the person receiving it should also bring IDs.

How to Complete the Title Transfer Process Step by Step

Here’s how to transfer a car title to a family member in California:

• Gather required documents
• Fill out the title transfer information on the back of the title
• Fill out REG 256
• Pay any required fees

It usually takes a few weeks for the DMV to generate and mail a new title.

Fees and Exemptions for Family Title Transfers in California

Most family transfers are tax-exempt, but you may have to pay a small title transfer fee. You can find out what you owe with the California DMV’s online fee calculator.

Smog Certification Requirements for Family Transfers

Most cars won’t need a new smog check to be transferred, but check with the DMV to make sure.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transferring a Car Title

Often, one or both parties will forget to sign the car title or a relevant form. Double-check this before you submit your documents. It’s also important to verify that REG 256 is complete and accurate.

Need Legal Help?

Whether you have questions about car transfers or are looking for a California car accident lawyer, ConsumerShield is here for you. Check out our comprehensive library of legal tools and resources today.