How to Buy a Used Car in California: Title, Smog Check, Fees and DMV Steps
To buy a used car in California from a private seller, get the signed California title (Certificate of Title), a valid smog certificate from the seller (required for most cars more than four model years old, issued within the last 90 days), an odometer disclosure where required and ideally a bill of sale (REG 135). Then transfer ownership at the DMV within 10 days and pay the transfer fee and use tax based on the price and your county. The seller must report the sale to the DMV within 5 days. Buying from a dealer is simpler because the dealer handles the paperwork.
California has more paperwork rules for used car purchases than most states, especially around smog checks. Getting the documents right on the day of the sale saves you from fees, failed registrations and, in the worst case, a car you cannot legally drive.
This guide covers the steps and documents for buying a used car in California, from a private seller or a dealer, plus the checks that protect you before you pay.
How to Buy a Used Car in California
Add use tax (based on your county’s rate), DMV transfer and registration fees and insurance to the price so there are no surprises.
Run the VIN through a vehicle history report and the NHTSA recall lookup. Look for salvage, flood or lemon-law buyback brands on the title.
Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you pay. It usually costs far less than one surprise repair.
For most gasoline cars more than four model years old, the seller must provide a valid smog certificate, issued within 90 days of the sale.
Make sure the seller signs the title as the registered owner, the odometer reading is recorded where required, and both of you sign a bill of sale with the price and date.
Submit the signed title, smog certificate and fees to the DMV (online, by mail or in person) within 10 days to avoid penalties. Get insurance before you drive.
Documents You Need
| Document | Who provides it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California Certificate of Title | Seller | Signed by the registered owner(s). If lost, the seller completes an REG 227 |
| Smog certificate | Seller | Required for most cars over four model years old. Valid 90 days |
| Bill of Sale (REG 135) | Both | Recommended. Records price and date for tax |
| Odometer disclosure | Seller | Required for many newer vehicles, often on the title itself |
| Proof of insurance and ID | Buyer | Needed to register and drive |
| Lien release | Seller | If the car had a loan |
Fees and Taxes
- Use tax: paid to the DMV on private-party purchases, at your county’s sales tax rate (roughly 7.25% to over 10%).
- Transfer fee and registration fees: depend on the vehicle and how much registration is left.
- Late penalties: apply if you transfer after the 10-day deadline. The DMV’s checklist notes added penalties after 30 days.
- Smog transfer fee: may apply to some newer cars that are exempt from the smog check itself.
Fees change, so use the DMV’s online fee calculator for exact numbers.
Smog Check Exemptions
- Cars four model years old or newer (a smog transfer fee may apply instead).
- Transfers between immediate family members, such as spouses, parents, children, siblings and grandparents.
- Electric vehicles and some other vehicle types.
If the seller says “you can smog it yourself”, be careful. If it fails, the repairs are your problem. For more, see tips for buying a quality used car in California and selling a car without a title in California.
- Check that the name on the title matches the seller’s ID.
- Never pay without receiving the signed title (or a clear plan with the lender if there is a loan).
- Meet at a bank or DMV office to complete the paperwork safely.
- Ask for maintenance records and both keys.
Buying a used car privately in California comes down to three things: a properly signed title, a valid smog certificate from the seller for most older cars, and transferring ownership at the DMV within 10 days with use tax and fees paid. Check the history, get an inspection and confirm current fees on the DMV website before you buy.
Buying a Used Car in California FAQs
In a private sale, the seller is responsible for providing a valid smog certificate for most cars more than four model years old.
The buyer has 10 days from the purchase date. The seller should report the sale to the DMV within 5 days.
Yes. You pay use tax to the DMV based on the purchase price and your county’s rate.
It is recommended. The REG 135 Bill of Sale records the price and date, which the DMV may ask for.
Avoid it. If the title is lost, the seller should complete an Application for Duplicate Title (REG 227) so ownership can transfer.
Usually not. Transfers between immediate family members are generally exempt from the smog requirement.
- Get the signed California title.
- Seller provides a smog certificate (90 days).
- Bill of sale REG 135 recommended.
- Transfer at the DMV within 10 days.
- Pay use tax and fees.