Lucky Registration Services is a private registration service, licensed by the department, OL# 86193. We are not the DMV or any government agency. DMV fees vary by vehicle and are paid to the state; our service charge is separate. You can do this directly with the DMV without paying our service charge.
The short answer
A vehicle based in California, or used here more than in any other single state, must be registered in California (VC 4000.4). DMV says this needs an in-person DMV visit because the vehicle must be physically inspected (DMV checklist).
Forms
- REG 343 Application for Title or Registration (REV. 12/2022)
- REG 31 Verification of Vehicle (REV. 5/2025)
- DMV checklist: Title Transfer – Out of State Vehicle
What to bring
- The vehicle, for VIN verification (see who can verify)
- A California smog certificate for most vehicles. Out-of-state smog tests aren't accepted.
- Odometer disclosure, for vehicles less than 10 years old
- A REG 343 signed by all owners
- The original out-of-state title; if financed, the lienholder's name and address
- The most recent out-of-state registration
- Proof of California-compliant insurance
Deadlines
- Apply within 20 days of the date registration became due, or penalties apply (VC 4152.5)
- Registration becomes due when you become a California resident (for example, a California job, renting a home here, registering to vote, or paying resident tuition)
- Bought a car out of state to bring here? DMV's checklist says you have 10 days from purchase to start the transfer.
- Late penalties for vehicles never registered in California: 40% / 80% / 160% of the vehicle license fee
Cost
DMV fees vary by vehicle. From DMV: nonresident service fee $28; registration fee $76 (incl. $3 Alternative Fuel/Technology fee); CHP fee $34; county fees vary; vehicle license fee about 0.65% of the vehicle's value; use tax varies by city/county; transfer fee $15 if ownership changes. DMV calculates the total when you apply: DMV fee calculator.
Mistakes that get a packet rejected
- An out-of-state smog test
- Not every owner signed the REG 343
- A copy instead of the original out-of-state title
- No lienholder information for a financed vehicle
- An out-of-state officer's VIN inspection that isn't on a REG 31
Questions people ask
How do I register an out-of-state car in California?
In person at DMV with a REG 343 signed by all owners, a VIN verification (REG 31), a California smog certificate for most vehicles, the original out-of-state title and registration, and proof of insurance.
How long do I have?
Within 20 days of the date registration became due, which is when you become a California resident.
How much does it cost?
DMV fees vary by vehicle (nonresident service fee $28, registration $76, CHP $34, county fees, about 0.65% vehicle license fee, use tax). Our service charge is $150, plus $250 for an import or Canadian vehicle.