If you are a California resident who is not licensed as a dealer and you purchase a vehicle that is located in California and has a California title, then you will receive an Acquisition Bill of Sale (aka Reg 262) instead of a title. In order for you to register the vehicle, it will first need to be in a roadworthy condition, meet certain regulatory requirements and be revived by the DMV.
The vehicle will need to complete the following inspections:
Smog certification. You can find a DMV-authorized smog check station near you or visit smogcheck.ca.gov.
Brake and light adjustment certificates. Needs to be completed by a state-licensed repair shop. Motorcycles and large commercial vehicles may require a certificate from a specialty repair shop.
Verification of Vehicle (aka Reg 31). Needs to be completed by the local DMV or a California Highway Patrol station. Some items to bring are the proof of ownership, the bill of sale (if applicable), receipts for any repairs, and a $50 inspection fee.
Weight certificate (aka Reg 4008). Needs to be completed by a California Certified Public Weighmaster. Required for pickups and trucks.
After the above items have been completed, you will need to take the following to the DMV:
Signed Reg 262. You will need to sign next to your printed name
Application for Title or Registration (aka Reg 343)
Verification of Vehicle (aka Reg 31)
Brake and light certificates
Smog certification
Any applicable fees
Additional items that may be required include:
A Statement of Facts (aka Reg 256)
A Declaration of Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) / Combined Gross Vehicle Weight (CGW) (aka Reg 4008)
A Permanent Trailer Identification (PTI) Application and Certification (aka Reg 4017)
Weight certificate (aka Reg 4008)
The fees for this process may include but are not limited to:
Salvage vehicle inspection: $50
Salvage Certificate: $20
Registration: $46
Duplicate title: $20
California Highway Patrol fee:$23
Vehicle license fee (VLF): $20
Record collection fee: $2
If you have any questions regarding the REG 262 revival process you can contact the DMV or visit the California DMV website to obtain more information.
Last Updated 6/26/22