How to Unregister a Car in California
Unregistering a car in California is a process that vehicle owners must follow when they no longer wish to use or possess their vehicle. Whether you are moving out of state, selling your car, or simply no longer need it, it is important to properly unregister your vehicle to avoid any future legal complications or liabilities. In this article, we will guide you through the steps required to unregister a car in California, along with answering some frequently asked questions.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Documents
Before you begin the process of unregistering your car, ensure you have all the required documents ready. These typically include your vehicle’s certificate of title or pink slip, a completed Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form (REG 138), and any applicable smog certificates.
Step 2: Complete the Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability Form (REG 138)
The Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form (REG 138) is a crucial document that notifies the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle. It protects the seller by removing their name from the vehicle’s record and helps prevent any future liability issues. The form can be obtained online from the DMV’s official website or at a local DMV office.
Step 3: Cancel Your Vehicle Insurance
To unregister your car, you must cancel your vehicle insurance. Contact your insurance provider and inform them that you no longer require coverage for the vehicle. Ensure that you receive written confirmation of the policy cancellation for your records.
Step 4: Remove and Return License Plates
Before heading to the DMV, remove your license plates from the vehicle. California law requires license plates to remain with the vehicle upon sale or transfer, so they cannot be reused on another vehicle. Once removed, either destroy the plates or return them to your local DMV office.
Step 5: Visit a Local DMV Office
Visit your local DMV office to complete the vehicle unregistering process. Bring all the necessary documents mentioned in Step 1, including the completed Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability form (REG 138). Additionally, you may need to pay a small fee for the unregistering process.
Step 6: Obtain a Receipt
Upon completing the unregistering process, the DMV will provide you with a receipt as proof that your vehicle has been unregistered. Keep this receipt in a safe place, as it may be necessary for future reference or to clear any potential disputes related to the vehicle.
FAQs
Q: Is it necessary to unregister a car in California if I plan to sell it?
A: Yes, it is crucial to unregister a car in California before selling it. This process ensures that you are no longer held liable for the vehicle and protects you from any future legal complications.
Q: Can I unregister a car online in California?
A: Unfortunately, the DMV does not offer an online option to unregister a car in California. You must visit a local DMV office to complete the process.
Q: What if I lost the certificate of title for my vehicle?
A: If you have lost the certificate of title, you must obtain a duplicate before unregistering your car. Contact the DMV for instructions on obtaining a duplicate title.
Q: Can I unregister a car if it has a lien?
A: Yes, you can unregister a car with a lien. However, it is important to satisfy the lien before completing the unregistering process. Contact your lienholder for guidance on how to proceed.
Q: Do I need to provide proof of a smog certificate to unregister my car?
A: In most cases, yes. If your vehicle is over four years old, a smog certificate is typically required to unregister it. However, there may be certain exceptions based on your specific situation. Contact the DMV for more information.
In conclusion, properly unregistering a car in California is a necessary step to ensure that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle and to avoid any future legal complications. By following the steps outlined in this article and gathering the required documents, you can successfully unregister your car and have peace of mind. If you have any additional questions or concerns, it is always recommended to contact the California DMV for further guidance.