Out-of-State Title Transfer in California

You've started the process correctly. The REG 343 will need to be completed and signed by the buyer. A VIN verification might be required as well. You'll probably want to know this in fact before you make the trip. To play it safe, we'd encourage the vehicle identification number (VIN) be inspected by a certified VIN verification agency, DMV office, or CHP, either way.

We mention a VIN verification might be needed. Because the truck was at one point already registered in California, it is possible the DMV may not require this inspection. If this was a vehicle seeking first time California registration, a VIN verification would be mandatory. The DMV will be able to advise. How long ago the vehicle was registered in CA might come into play and whether the DMV still has complete records.

Specific to Heavy Trucks: The DMV may or may not also require a Weight Certificate. Out-of-state trucks and pickups are required to undergo a weigh inspection prior to obtaining vehicle registration in California for the first time. A weight certificate can be obtained at these Public Weight Stations. Since this vehicle was once registered here, the DMV may or may not require one. They will be able to tell you.

Finally, you'll need a smog inspection. You can obtain one at any smog check station in California. The results of the inspection are sent to the DMV electronically within 24 hours of passing the smog inspection. The smog station will also give you a print out of the vehicle's smog check results.

Since you might not have the opportunity to get in physical contact with the seller once you arrive to California, we highly recommend you receive final confirmation from the California DMV at (800) 777-0133 regarding the latest registration requirements and forms for this specific transaction.

As far as using our online title transfer system, it is possible the system was unable to calculate the correct fees because of a future purchase date. Try the system with the current date and it should give your correct results.

Related Material

Online Vehicle Title Transfer (CA-to-CA)
California Title Transfer Quick Guide
California Smog Check Requirements
Commonly Used DMV Forms