California Vehicle Registration- Everything You Need To know

If you’re living in California and recently bought a vehicle, you need to register your vehicle to operate it legally as per the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) rules. Here we have collected all the information you need to know about vehicle registration, all the documents you need to take to the DMV office, and what fees you expect to pay.

Vehicle at Dealership

If you have bought your vehicle at the dealership, you don’t have to worry about its registration because the dealer is responsible for taking care of the process. The dealer will issue you a temporary registration to utilize until your permanent registration card and stickers arrive in the DMV mail.

Before buying the vehicle at the dealership, make sure that it has legal registration; otherwise, it will create problems for you in the future.

If you have to get the vehicle registered, then you have to follow the below-mentioned steps. Registration of a vehicle bought from a private party is a bit complicated as compared to others.

You have only 10 days to register your vehicle after its purchase, or you have to pay extra fees applicable in case of late registration. Firstly, make an appointment in the DMV Office and submit the following documents-

1. Application for Registration

2. Vehicle’s Title

3. Valid Smog Certificate (if the vehicle is 4 years old)

4. Fees

Vehicle Registration Fees

Different vehicle registration fees can be charged during the process of registration. These fees will be charged during a purchase from the dealer. If you have purchased your vehicle from a private party, you have to pay the fees to the DMV office only.

Fee will be-

1. $46 for Registration

2. $23 for California Highway patrol fee

After you complete all the documentation, a DMV employee will complete the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) inspection. Once done with everything, you will receive your registration card, sticker, and your plate.

Registration for a New California Resident

If you’re a new resident, you will have 20 days to complete the registration process to avoid late fees. A new resident will need the following documents-

1. Registration Application

2. The vehicle’s out-of-state title.

3. The vehicle’s out-of-state registration.

4. Insurance proof

5. Valid Smog Certificate

6. Fees

Registration Renewable

It is required to renew vehicle registration annually. DMV sends a renewable notice in advance while the expiry is near.

All the vehicle registration processes can be frustrating and time-consuming due to long lines. Most people spend their half or full day traveling to DMV offices and waiting in the queue for their turn. You may have to go back home even after waiting for hours if you miss any documents required for the process.

To help you with this hectic process, ABA auto registration has reliable registration services that can save your time and effort. With a license issued by DMV, they provide quick and easy access to vehicle registration. Visit their website and learn more about auto registration services.