If you move to California with a car registered in another state, you must register it in California within 20 days of becoming a resident. You will need an Application for Title or Registration (REG 343), the out-of-state title or lienholder information, a VIN verification, a smog certification for most vehicles, proof of California insurance, and the fees.
Who counts as a resident
The DMV treats you as a California resident when you intend to live here six months or more in a year, and also when you take a job here, enroll a child in school or register to vote. The 20 days run from then.
The VIN verification
Form REG 31 has to be completed by a DMV employee, a law enforcement officer or a California-licensed vehicle verifier. It confirms the vehicle matches its paperwork.
Smog and emissions
Most vehicles need a California smog certification, and every vehicle registered here has to meet California emission standards. Start early: smog and verification take time to schedule.
Your insurance has to move too
A policy written in another state may not meet California's 30/60/15 minimum or be accepted for registration. Switching to a California policy is part of the move.
How to register an out-of-state car in California
- Get a California auto policyAt least 30/60/15 liability, with the vehicle listed.
- Have the VIN verifiedREG 31, by the DMV, law enforcement or a licensed verifier.
- Get the smog certificationRequired for most vehicles.
- Fill out REG 343Signed by every owner shown on the out-of-state title or registration.
- Submit within 20 days of residencyWith the title or lienholder information and the fees.
Get it handled in one stop
Monge quotes auto insurance across multiple carriers and handles the vehicle paperwork at the same Bloomington counter. Start with the online quote form, call (909) 440-5999, or see Out-of-State Vehicle Transfers. Help is available in English and español.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. DMV rules and fees change; the DMV and your policy are the final word. Updated 2026-10-08.
Questions people ask
How long do I have to register my car after moving to California?
20 days from becoming a resident.
Do I need a smog check to register an out-of-state car?
Most vehicles do, and every vehicle must meet California emission standards.
Can my out-of-state insurance stay the same?
It usually needs to change to a California policy that meets the 30/60/15 minimum.
Who can do the VIN verification?
A DMV employee, a law enforcement officer or a California-licensed vehicle verifier.
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