California - How To Transfer A Title

Before beginning, please note the following:

• Only use black or blue ink. Any other color will void the title.
• Do not erase anything or use white-out.
• Write neatly.
• Do not use nicknames.
• Mistakes can void the document.

California Title Transfer

Front of Title:

*Red = Seller, Teal = Buyer, Green = Lienholder*

1. The seller enters the date and signs their name.
   1. If there is a co-seller, they will also enter the date and sign their name.
2. The seller enters the exact odometer reading.
   1. Don't include tenths of a mile.
   2. Only check boxes 1 or 2 if the mileage is in excess of the odometer's mechanical limits or if the reading is not the actual mileage. 
3. The seller enters the date and signs their name.
4. The buyer enters the date and signs their name.
5. If applicable, the lienholder will release the lien by entering the required information.

   

Back of Title

*Red = Seller, Teal = Buyer, Green = Lienholder*

1. The buyer enters their last, first, and middle name as it appears on their driver's license or I.D. card, address, city, state, and zip code.
   1. If there is a co-buyer, they will also enter their last, first, and middle name as it appears on their driver's license or I.D. card.
   2. If there is a co-buyer, check either "AND" or "OR" to signify, in the event they are to sell the vehicle, if both (AND) or only one (OR) of the people need to sign the title.
   3. Only enter the mailing address (#5) if the mailing address differs from the residential address.
2. The buyer enters the date, signs their name, and enters their California driver's license number, the purchase date, and the purchase price.
   1. If there is a co-buyer, they will also enter the date, sign their name, and enter their California driver's license number.
3. If applicable, the lienholder to appear on the new title will enter the required information.

   

What to Bring to the DMV

• The Title or an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title
• Payment for Applicable Fees

Front and Back Sample of a California Title: