California DMV Forms
A California license plate search is more than just a quick lookup; it is a vital tool for transparency in one of the world's largest vehicle markets. With California's recent transition to the new 000AAA0 plate sequence, mirroring the old format as the state finally exhausted its 45-year-old numbering system, it is more important than ever to know how to accurately query these records.
While the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and California’s robust privacy laws (including the recently updated CCPA) ensure that personal owner details remain confidential, a wealth of vehicle-specific data remains accessible to the public.
Ownership & Transfer Forms
These forms are used when a vehicle changes hands, when a title is lost, or when you first bring a car into California.
Application for Title or Registration (REG 343)
New residents moving to California or anyone registering a vehicle for the first time in the state. This is the "Master Form." You use it to tell the DMV exactly what the vehicle is (VIN, make, model) and who owns it. If you are bringing a car from another state, you must complete this form and provide your out-of-state title.
Ensure you include your out-of-state DL/ID number if you haven't received your California license yet. This form also serves as a "Verification of Vehicle" (REG 31) when combined during an inspection.
Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (REG 138)
Sellers who just handed over their keys to a buyer. This is the most important form for a seller. By law, you must file this within 5 days of selling your car. Once processed, it protects you from any parking tickets, toll violations, or even criminal liability caused by the new owner. It essentially tells the DMV, "I am no longer responsible for this machine."
While you can mail the PDF, it is highly recommended to file this online to get an instant confirmation receipt. Don't rely on the buyer to do their paperwork!
Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title (REG 227)
Owners who lost their "Pink Slip" or have a title that is too damaged to read. If you plan to sell your car but can't find the title, this form acts as both a request for a new title and a transfer document. You can skip the wait for a new title by using this form to transfer ownership directly to a buyer in one go.
If there was a lienholder (like a bank) that has been paid off, Section 5 must be notarized to prove the bank no longer owns the car.
Maintenance & Replacement Forms
Use these when you need to replace physical items or update the DMV on your vehicle's status.
Application for Replacement Plates, Stickers, Documents (REG 156)
Replacing stolen 2026 red stickers, lost license plates, or a missing registration card. This is a multi-purpose replacement form. If your plate was stolen, you should include a police report number to potentially waive certain fees. If only one plate was stolen, you must still surrender the remaining plate to the DMV when you get your new set. If your stickers were "Not Received from DMV" (lost in the mail), you can check a specific box on this form to get them replaced for free within 90 days of the original issue date.
Affidavit of Non-Use (REG 5090)
Owners who want to cancel their car insurance without having their registration suspended. In California, the DMV is notified instantly if you cancel insurance, and they will suspend your registration. Filing a REG 5090 tells them, "I'm not driving this car, so it's okay that it's uninsured." This is only for vehicles that are currently registered.
The vehicle cannot be operated or parked on a public street once this is filed; it must be stored on private property (like a garage). If your registration is expiring soon, use the Planned Non-Operation (REG 102) instead.
Notice of Change of Address (DMV 14)
Anyone who has moved homes within the last 10 days. You are legally required to notify the DMV of an address change within 10 days. This form updates both your Driver's License record and your Vehicle Registration record at once.
Changing your address with the DMV does not automatically update your voter registration unless you specifically check the box on the form.
Special Permits & Exemptions
These forms are for specific needs like disability access or HOV lane usage.
Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates (REG 195)
Individuals with permanent or temporary mobility issues. This form allows you to get the blue (permanent) or red (temporary) parking placards. It is a two-part form: one for you and one for your medical professional to sign.
Permanent placards are free and valid for two years, but temporary ones (valid for up to 6 months) require a small $6 fee.
Application for Clean Air Vehicle Decals (REG 1000)
EV and Plug-in Hybrid owners who want to use the carpool lane alone. This form gets you the colored stickers (Teal for 2026) that allow single-occupancy HOV access. Note that the program is subject to legislative extensions. You must be the registered owner of the vehicle, and your car must be on the California Air Resources Board's (CARB) list of eligible vehicles.
Affidavit for Transfer Without Probate (REG 5)
Used to transfer title for a vehicle or vessel owned by a decedent, applicable only for California titled vehicles or vessels.
Application for Disabled Person Parking Placard or Plates (REG 195)
Required when applying for a disabled person card and/or license plates, with a medical professional’s signature.
Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title (REG 227)
Needed for requesting a duplicate or paperless California Certificate of Title.
Application for Salvage Certificate or Non-Repairable Vehicle Certificate (REG 488C)
Used to record a vehicle as salvage or non-repairable, with license plates turned in to the DMV.
Application for Temporary Smog Exemption (REG 5103)
Used to renew registration for a vehicle requiring a smog check but is temporarily out of state.
Application for Vessel Certificate of Number (BOAT 101)
Necessary to register an undocumented vessel in California.
Bill of Sale (REG 135)
Records transaction details when buying or selling a used vehicle. A bill of sale can be personally drafted.
Certificate of Planned Non-Operation (REG 102)
Required if intending to no longer drive your vehicle.
Courtesy Stop Request (REG 500)
Prevents unauthorized transfer of your vehicle. Consult an attorney before filing.
Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (REG 166)
Can be used instead of a vehicle Certificate of Title to release ownership, commonly by lienholders.
Miscellaneous Certifications (REG 256)
Used for various DMV transactions, including Disabled Veteran Registration Exemption.
Power of Attorney (REG 260)
Allows a vehicle owner to authorize another individual to act on their behalf in transactions related to the ownership or registration of a vehicle. This form is crucial for individuals who are unable to personally attend to DMV affairs.
For a complete list of forms, detailed instructions, and to download the forms, visit the official California DMV website. Ensure your vehicle's documentation is up to date and correctly processed by utilizing the appropriate DMV forms.