Buying A Used Car Out Of State California May 2026

These include the registration fee, license fee (based on value), and potential weight or air quality fees. Logistics of the Purchase

If you already paid sales tax to the state where you bought the car, California usually grants a credit for that amount. You only pay the difference if California’s rate is higher.

This is the primary form for bringing a vehicle into the CA system. buying a used car out of state california

Buying a used car from out-of-state and bringing it into California is a common way to find specific models or better deals, but the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have strict requirements. You must navigate emissions standards, specific paperwork, and immediate registration deadlines to avoid heavy penalties. The 20-Day Rule

This form confirms the VIN and engine numbers. While some peace officers can sign this, it is usually easiest to have a DMV employee or a licensed vehicle verifier do it in person. These include the registration fee, license fee (based

Required only if you are registering a truck or pickup. Taxes and Fees

The physical or electronic record from a CA smog station. This is the primary form for bringing a

If you drive the car back, you may need a temporary operating permit from the state of purchase. If you ship it, keep the bill of lading as proof of the date the car entered California. If you'd like to get started on the logistics or budgeting: Vehicle year and mileage (to check smog/new car rules) The state where the car is currently located Your California zip code (for tax calculation)