Wondering how to transfer a vehicle to a family member? Whether the car is going to your child, spouse, parent, or other relative, the process is pretty straightforward. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to transfer ownership of a car to a family member in California in 5 easy steps.
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How to Transfer a Vehicle to a Family Member in California
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
To begin, collect the documents needed for the title transfer. Having the following ready will allow the process to go smoothly.
In most cases, you will need:
- The original California Certificate of Title signed by Buyer and Seller
- Odometer reading (if applicable)
- Current government-issued ID
- Form Reg 227 and/or any other California DMV forms that apply to your situation
Depending on who the vehicle is being transferred to, you may be eligible for tax exemptions or smog certification requirements. Check with your local DMV for specifics to your circumstance.
Learn More About California Title Transfer Requirements
Step 2: Sign Over the Vehicle Title
When filling out the title, make sure you:
- Enter your information and sign the title without cross-outs or corrections.
- Have both the Seller (the previous owner) and Buyer (the new owner) sign the appropriate sections.
- Record the sale date. For the sale price, enter $0/Gift if the car is being gifted.
- List the odometer reading if applicable.
Review your work thoroughly before submitting it. Errors, cross-outs, or missing signatures can delay a transfer or require you to obtain a replacement title.
Step 3: What to Do if the Vehicle is a Gift
If you’re giving a vehicle to a family member and there is no money exchanged, the transfer is considered a gift—not a sale. Determining this is important because gift transfers may mean certain tax exemptions in California.
How to Gift a Vehicle in California
Step 4: Submit the Title Transfer
Once your paperwork is complete, submit your application to the DMV and pay any required fees.
Want to skip the wait time and hassle? Visit our online California Title Transfer Page and get your transfer done quickly and easily online with eTags.
Step 5: Get Your New Title
Once your paperwork is accepted and processed, the California DMV will issue a new Certificate of Title with new owner’s name listed on the front.
It’s a good idea to keep copies of all submitted documents until the transfer is complete.
Transferring an Inherited Vehicle?
If you’re transferring ownership of a vehicle after the death of a family member, the process will be different. Depending on specific circumstances, you may need additional documents, especially if probate is involved. Learn more here:
Transfer a Vehicle of a Deceased Person in California
FAQs
What documents do I need to transfer a vehicle to a family member?
For most transfers, you will need:
- The original California vehicle title
- Signatures from both the current owner and the new owner
- A valid ID
- Odometer disclosure (if applicable)
- Any required California DMV forms
Other documents may be required for inherited vehicles or transfers that are eligible for tax exemptions.
Can I complete a transfer online?
Yes. Visit our California Title Transfer Page and get your transfer done online quickly and easily with eTags.
Summary
Transferring a car to someone in your family in California is a simple process when you have an easy guide to follow.
A quick recap:
- Gather your documents.
- Fill in the back of the title carefully and correctly.
- Add any applicable documents if the transfer is a gift.
- Submit the required paperwork and fees.
- Get your new title.
If you’re transferring a vehicle to a family member in California, you can avoid the lines, the DMV office, and the wait. Head over to eTags.com and let us facilitate this transaction for you smoothly and simply. And if at any point you need a hand, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Because as always, at eTags, we’re here to help!
