How to Transfer a California Title

Anytime there’s a change to a vehicle or vessel’s registered owner or lienholder, that change needs to be updated in DMV’s records within 10 days and the California Certificate of Title needs to be transferred to the new owner. To transfer a title, you will always need: Either the California Certificate of Title or an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) (if the title is missing). smog if vehicle Has not been smog with in the last 90 days The signature(s) of seller(s) and lienholder (if any). The signature(s) of buyer(s). A transfer fee.