How to Transfer California Title

How do I transfer title of my vehicle in California (CA)?

• The state of California DOES require a Certificate of Title in order to transfer ownership of your vehicle.  However, if your vehicle was last titled in the state of CA, a Reg 227 form – Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title, can be used in place of the title. This is a secure form that can be obtained at any local DMV office. 
• In order to complete the sale of your car in California, you must transfer your title by entering the name of the buyer/purchaser in the buyer/purchaser field. Please PRINT and SIGN your name in the seller/owner field EXACTLY as it appears at the top of the title.
• License plates remain on the vehicle at the time of pick-up UNLESS they are personalized.
• For detailed instructions on how to properly fill out your title, see the title samples below.

Helpful State Links

California Department of Motor Vehicles
Learn more about California
California Secretary of State