When purchasing a vehicle from one of our auctions in California, there are a couple of different documentation types you’ll run into.
When you are researching a car, ALWAYS look at the documentation type in the vehicle detail page. This will ensure you are prepared for any additional steps you need to follow in order to obtain a title and register the vehicle.
Title (Clean)
In order to register a vehicle that is sold with the documentation type “Title (Clean)” follow these steps:
- Complete the Title Transfer: Ensure that the seller has properly signed the title over to you. Both you and the seller must complete the relevant sections on the title certificate.
- Odometer Disclosure: If the vehicle is less than 10 years old, provide an odometer reading.
- Smog Certification: Obtain a valid smog certificate if required.
- Payment of Fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable fees, including transfer, registration, and taxes.
- Submit Documentation: Visit a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to submit the completed title, bill of sale, smog certificate (if applicable), and payment.
This information is intended only as a guideline. Please visit a California DMV or https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/ for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Lien Sale
In order to register a vehicle that is sold with the documentation type “Lien Sale” follow these steps:
- Review the Lien Sale Packet: Ensure it includes all required documents, such as the Certification of Lien Sale (REG 168 or REG 168A), Notice of Pending Lien Sale (REG 280), Lienholder’s Bill of Sale (REG 262 or REG 227), and proof of notification attempts.
- Complete the Application for Title and Registration (REG 343). This form is used to request a new title and register the vehicle in your name.
- Obtain a Smog Certification if required.
- Vehicle Inspection (if necessary). If the vehicle was not previously registered in California or the VIN needs verification, you may need a VIN verification by the DMV or a licensed inspector.
- Payment of Fees: Be prepared to pay all applicable fees, including transfer, registration, and taxes.
- Submit Documentation: Visit a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to submit the above documentation and payment.
The California has more in-depth information on lien sales here. We recommend reviewing this before making a bid.
The DMV will process your application and issue either a new title and registration or a temporary operating permit while the title is being processed. There may be additional steps or delays if the lienholder challenges the sale or you’ve purchased a salvage vehicle.
This information is intended only as a guideline. Please visit a California DMV or https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/ for the most accurate and up-to-date information.