Transfer of Ownership

Buying, selling, or gifting a vehicle? You’ll need to transfer the title to officially change ownership.

We handle title transfers for private sales, family transfers, inherited vehicles, and more. Our staff will prepare and submit all required forms to the DMV to ensure your transfer is completed accurately and on time.

Avoid penalties or delays — let us help you process your title transfer as little as the same day.

Vehicle Ownership Transfers in California

When a vehicle changes ownership in California, it’s important to notify the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within the required timeframe. The process varies slightly depending on whether you’re selling, buying, gifting, or receiving a vehicle. Below is a clear overview of what each party must do to complete the transfer properly.

If You’re Selling a Vehicle

Sellers are required to inform the California DMV that the vehicle has been sold within five (5) days of the transaction. This step officially releases you from future liability related to the vehicle.
Be sure to provide the buyer with all necessary documents so they can complete the transfer of ownership without delay.

If You’re Buying a Vehicle

Buyers must notify the California DMV of their new ownership within ten (10) days of purchasing the vehicle.
To complete this process, you’ll need to obtain all required documents from the seller, including the signed title and any other transfer paperwork.

If You’re Gifting or Donating a Vehicle

If you’re giving away or donating your vehicle, you must report the transfer to the DMV within five (5) days from the date the vehicle was gifted.
Provide the recipient with the necessary documents to ensure the title and registration can be updated in their name.

If You’re Receiving a Gifted or Donated Vehicle

When you receive a vehicle as a gift or donation, you are required to transfer the title and registration into your name within ten (10) days of the date it was given to you.
Be sure to gather all required documents from the donor to complete the ownership transfer.

Required Documents for Title Transfers

When transferring ownership, it’s important to have the proper paperwork ready. The California DMV provides an official Changing Vehicle Ownership Checklist that outlines the documents you’ll need.

This checklist helps ensure you have everything required to successfully transfer a vehicle’s title and registration to your name.

Need Help?

If you prefer to avoid DMV wait times, Same Day Vehicle Registration can assist you with completing ownership transfers quickly and accurately.
Our team handles all title transfer paperwork and ensures your vehicle is properly registered — saving you time and hassle.

How much does it cost?

Please fill out our form at the end of this page to receive a quote via text.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us by phone (xxx-xxx-xxxx) or visit our office 23192 Verdugo Dr Unit A, Laguna Hills, CA 92653