It is illegal to live in one state and register your car in another state unless you have good reason. In general, the car needs to be registered where it is garaged, which usually means where the owner lives.
Can I buy a used car out of state and register it in California?
You must register your vehicle from out of state with the California DMV within 20 days after you brought it into the state and remain as the owner of the vehicle, or within 20 days after purchasing an out of state or non-resident vehicle in California to avoid penalties.
Do you have to be a California resident to register a car?
Residency. California does not require proof of residency to register a vehicle.
How long can I drive with out of state plates in California?
Here’s the thing — when you move to California and establish residency, you have 10 days to get a new driver license and 20 days to register your vehicle.
Can I live in California and have a car registered in another state? – Related Questions
How much does it cost to register a car in California from another state?
California has a $15 title transfer fee, or $20 for out-of-state vehicles.
What is the penalty for not registering your car in California?
Here are the penalties for new vehicles or vehicles that have never been registered in California. – 40% of the vehicle license fee due for that year. – 40% of the weight fee due for that year (if any). – 80% of the vehicle license fee due for that year.
| Fee Type |
Fee Amount |
| Transfer |
$23 |
| – Penalty |
$23 |
Can I drive in California with an out of state permit?
No. You will need to get your California Learner’s Permit. California does not allow you to operate a motor vehicle with an out-of-state permit, regardless of age. Study the DMV handbook it has all the answers on the permit test.
Do I need a smog check to register my out of state car in California?
If you are a California resident and acquire a new car, truck, or motorcycle from another state, it must be certified to meet California smog laws to be registered in California. This includes certain diesel-powered vehicles.
How many days do you have to register a newly purchased vehicle in California?
Registration for a Vehicle Purchased from a Private Party
Buyers have 10 days after purchasing the vehicle to transfer ownership from the seller to themselves, and sellers have 5 days after the sale to report the transfer of ownership to DMV.
Do I need to retitle my car in California?
Anytime there’s a change to a vehicle or vessel’s registered owner or lienholder, that change needs to be updated in DMV’s records within 10 days and the California Certificate of Title needs to be transferred to the new owner.
What happens if you don’t transfer a title within 10 days CA?
If the buyer doesn’t transfer the title within 10 days, the car’s registration is suspended.
What is needed to register an out-of-state vehicle in California?
To register, head to the DMV and submit:
- A Completed Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343).
- The Vehicle’s Out-of-State Title.
- The Vehicle’s Out-of-State Registration.
- Proof of Insurance.
- A Valid Smog Certificate.
- Payment for Fees (see “Fees” below).
Do I need to get a new title when I move?
Do you need a new title when you move states? You’ll need to check your new state’s DMV website to determine whether you’ll need to purchase a new vehicle title in order to register your vehicle. Some states, like Florida, require it, while others allow you to register the car using your old title.
Can I register a car in Florida with an out of state license?
State Overview and Advice
In order to register a vehicle in Florida, you need a Florida driver’s license and a Florida address. Getting a Florida driver’s license is not an easy process. We recommend starting your visit in another state, or using visitor.us’ services to register a vehicle that you buy in Florida.
Can I buy a car in Massachusetts and register it in Florida?
Yes. The registration process is different in each state, however you can buy a vehicle in one state and register it in your home state. You’ll need to make sure the vehicle can pass your state’s emissions test and road worthiness inspection.
Can I sell a car without the title in my name?
Selling a car that isn’t registered in your name
There are very few reasons that you will be able to sell a car that isn’t in your name, these include: If you are the executor of the estate. If you have financial power of attorney. With confirmation of intentions from the registered individual.
Is title jumping a felony in Florida?
Yes, Jumping Titles is a felony and it is also illegal in all 50 states except in certain cases such as when someone has passed away and the family or next of kin wishes to sell the vehicle. If you are caught Jumping or Skipping Vehicle Titles you will face Fines, Penalties, and Possible Jail Time.
Can my wife sell my car if it’s in my name?
Yes, someone else can sell your car on your behalf whether this is your husband, wife, another family member, or friend. However, you will need to ensure that the correct documentation is in place.