Title Transfer Documents

When you buy car, you’ll need:

• The Certificate of Title. If the title’s lost, the previous owner should apply for a duplicate.
• The Vehicle /Vessel Transfer and Reassignment form. This is available from the CA DMV, or you can get it from the California DMV website.
• A Bill of Sale. California doesn't require it, but it's good to have as added documentation.

You will need additional documents, such as a smog check for cars older than four years, when you register the car.

Car Title Signing

During the title transfer, both the previous owner and new owner must sign the car title, or pink slip. If the car is 10 years old or newer, you’ll also need to write the mileage (odometer reading).

Selling a Car

If you’re selling a car, fill out the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form. This is important, because it proves that as of that day, you no longer hold this vehicle. That way, if the new owner goes out and gets into an accident before the car is registered in the new name, you won’t be held responsible.

You can now instantly notify the DMV of the title transfer using their online service.

Vehicle History Report

Though not required by law, vehicle history reports for used cars are useful tools. The report, available for around $30, tells you the car’s history of major accidents, whether it was flooded or totaled, and if any major repairs were made. The report will tell you whether the cars you're interested in have clean titles and how many people owned each one prior.

Most vehicle history report businesses allow you to pay one fee and get as many car reports as you want within a certain time frame, allowing you to be free to shop around for the perfect used car. The small amount of money spent is worth the peace of mind.