Registering a Car in California After Moving From Another State
Last verified: October 2026 against California DMV and CDTFA sources
If you move to California with a car registered in another state, you must register it within 20 days of becoming a resident or taking a job here.
Here is what to do and what to bring.
Step by step
- 1
Mark the 20-day deadline
Register the vehicle within 20 days of becoming a resident or getting a job in California. To avoid penalties, submit the application and fees on time even if you do not yet have every document.
- 2
Get the VIN verified
A DMV employee, law enforcement officer, or California-licensed vehicle verifier completes a Verification of Vehicle (REG 31). You can bring the car to a DMV office for this.
- 3
Get a California smog certification
Gas vehicles from model year 1976 and newer need a smog certification from a California station (motorcycles are exempt). The newer-vehicle smog exemption does not apply to vehicles coming from out of state.
- 4
Bring your title or registration
Bring the out-of-state title, or proof of the last registration, such as the last registration certificate or renewal notice.
- 5
Check whether use tax applies
A vehicle bought within 12 months before you bring it into California is presumed bought for use here, so use tax may be due, with credit for sales tax paid to another state. Evidence such as tax paid elsewhere can rebut the presumption.
What to bring
- Out-of-state title, or your last registration certificate or renewal notice
- Verification of Vehicle (REG 31)
- California smog certification (gas vehicles 1976 and newer)
- Proof of sales tax paid in another state, if you bought the car within 12 months
- Payment for registration fees and any use tax