Buying A - Used Car Out Of State California

The physical or electronic record from a CA smog station.

Most gasoline vehicles from 1975 or older and diesel vehicles from 1997 or older (or with a GVWR of over 14,000 lbs) are exempt from smog certification. Necessary Paperwork

California considers any vehicle with fewer than 7,500 miles on the odometer to be "new." You generally cannot bring a "new" out-of-state vehicle into California unless it is certified for California emissions. buying a used car out of state california

You will need a specific stack of documents to complete the transfer at the DMV:

If you drive the car back, you may need a temporary operating permit from the state of purchase. If you ship it, keep the bill of lading as proof of the date the car entered California. If you'd like to get started on the logistics or budgeting: Vehicle year and mileage (to check smog/new car rules) The state where the car is currently located Your California zip code (for tax calculation) The physical or electronic record from a CA smog station

You must have the original title signed over to you. A bill of sale is not enough to prove ownership for registration.

This is the primary form for bringing a vehicle into the CA system. You will need a specific stack of documents

You must have California-compliant auto insurance before you can register the car. Most insurers allow a grace period for new purchases, but you should notify your agent immediately.