Guide to Registering an Out-of-State Vehicle in California

If you have a vehicle that was previously registered out of state, understanding the registration process in California is essential. This article outlines the steps you need to take and important considerations regarding fees and penalties.

Understanding Your Vehicle's Registration Status

The first step is to determine the original registration status of your vehicle. If it was registered out of state, this will affect how you proceed with its current registration in California.

Non-Resident Application Requirement

Due to its previous out-of-state registration, your application cannot be e-filed as a resubmit. Instead, it must be treated as a Non-Resident Application for reinstating its registration in California. Follow these guidelines:

• Prepare Required Documentation: Gather all necessary documents related to the vehicle’s history.
• Avoid E-filing Issues: Ensure that any existing issues with the Registration Document File (RDF) are resolved before proceeding with e-filing.

Potential Fees and Penalties

If there are unresolved matters concerning your RDF, you may face additional fees or penalties during the registration process. It is crucial to address these issues promptly:

• KSR Verification: Running a Key Serial Record (KSR) can help verify any changes regarding your RDF status on record. This step is vital for ensuring accuracy before submitting applications.

Selecting the Correct State for VIN Registration

You must indicate which state should be marked for an out-of-state Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). To do this effectively:

1. Check Title or Registration Documents: Look at where the vehicle was originally titled or registered; this information will guide you on what state to select.
2. If Documents Are Unavailable: Contacting the previous owner or reaching out to your local DMV can provide clarity on which state applies for that VIN.

Conclusion

Navigating through registering an out-of-state vehicle involves several key steps and considerations. By following this guide, you'll ensure compliance with California's regulations while avoiding unnecessary