Why You Might Need to Register a Car from another State
Maybe you just moved to sunny California. Or perhaps you bought a car while visiting family out of state. No matter the reason, driving a car with plates from another state won’t cut it for long. If you plan to live, work, or stay in California with that vehicle, you need to register it here.
This process is confusing, especially for first-timers, but don’t worry, we’ve made it simple. Whether your car is from Nevada, Texas, or even Florida, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get California plates the right way in 2025.
Who Needs to Register?
If any of the following apply to you, you probably need to register your out-of-state car in California:
- You moved to California with your vehicle
- You bought a car in another state but plan to live in California
- You are stationed in California as a military member
- You are a student attending college in California and driving a non-California car
California law gives you 20 days from the time you become a resident or bring your car into the state to register it. Delaying may result in late fees—or worse, a fine.
What Counts as “Residency”?
You are considered a California resident if:
- You are employed in California
- You rent or own a home here
- You are registered to vote in the state
- You have kids in school here
- You pay in-state tuition or get state benefits
If this is you—and you brought your car—then yes, you need California plates.
Step-by-Step: How to Register Your Out-of-State Car in California (2025) (2025)
Let’s break down the process into 10 simple steps.
Step 1: Smog Check Your Car
In most cases, California requires a smog inspection for any car being registered from another state. Here’s what to know:
- Cars less than 4 years old are usually exempt.
- Diesel vehicles, hybrids, and electric cars have special rules.
- Go to a licensed smog station. You can find one here.
Once you pass, you’ll get a Certificate of Compliance—this is required for registration.
Step 2: Make Sure the Car Meets California Emissions Standards
California has some of the toughest emission rules in the country. Not every out-of-state car will qualify.
Your car must be labeled as “California emissions certified.” You’ll find this on the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label under the hood.
If it only says “federal,” it may not qualify—unless it’s older than 1975 or diesel over 14,000 pounds GVWR.
Step 3: Gather These Documents
You’ll need a few things to register your vehicle. Below is your checklist:
- Out-of-state title or registration
- Proof of insurance (must meet California minimums)
- Odometer reading (for cars under 10 years old)
- Smog certificate (unless exempt)
- VIN verification form (completed by DMV or CHP)
- Completed application for registration (REG 343)
- Photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Bill of sale or lease agreement, if applicable
For leased vehicles, the lessor’s signature may also be required.
Step 4: Visit the DMV or Use a Registration Service
You can either:
- Go to the DMV (make an appointment!)
- Or use a licensed third-party registration service like Quick Plates VRS
Why choose a registration service? Because the DMV can have long wait times, registration experts know how to avoid mistakes, and you get it done faster, without the stress.
Step 5: Complete VIN Verification
All out-of-state vehicles must have their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) verified.
Who can verify it?
- DMV staff
- California Highway Patrol (CHP)
- Licensed registration agents
They’ll complete Form REG 31 during the inspection. And this confirms your car’s identity and legality.
Step 6: Pay the Fees
Fees vary depending on your car’s:
- Value
- Weight
- County of registration
- Vehicle type
Expect to pay:
- Registration fee
- Title fee
- Smog fee
- California Highway Patrol (CHP) fee
- Local/county fees
Most people pay between 0–0. You can use the fee calculator here.
Step 7: Get Your Plates and Stickers
Once everything’s approved, you’ll get:
- California license plates
- Registration sticker
- Vehicle registration card
Install your plates right away. Put the sticker on your rear plate in the top-right corner.
Step 8: Return Your Old Plates (Optional)
Some states require you to return your out-of-state plates. Others don’t.
Check with your former state’s DMV. You might also be eligible for a partial refund of registration fees.
Step 9: Tell Your Insurance Company
Update your car insurance to reflect your new address and registration status. This ensures:
- You meet California minimum coverage
- Your insurer can send documents correctly
- You stay protected if you get pulled over
Step 10: Renew Each Year
California car registration is renewed annually. You’ll receive a renewal notice in the mail.
To renew, you can:
- Pay online
- Use a registration service
- Visit the DMV
Missing your renewal can mean late fees—or even a suspended registration. So, set a reminder!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people hit roadblocks because of easy-to-fix mistakes. For example:
- Forgetting to get a smog check before going to the DMV
- Missing VIN verification
- Using the wrong form (like a federal-only emissions vehicle)
- Not having the lessor’s info for leased cars
- Showing up without an appointment at a busy DMV
Want to skip all that? Let Quick Plates VRS help.
What If My Car Doesn’t Qualify?
If your car doesn’t meet California emissions standards, it can’t be registered—unless it qualifies for an exemption.
- Keeping the car registered in your old state (limited situations)
- Selling it out-of-state
- Trading it for a California-compliant model
- Registering it as a non-operational vehicle (if you won’t drive it)
Always talk to an expert before making a decision.
Can I Register Without a Title?
Sometimes, the title is lost, damaged, or held by a lender. In these cases:
- You may use your current registration document
- The DMV may request a duplicate title
- For leased or financed cars, the DMV may contact the lienholder
Registration services can help you handle this paperwork correctly.
Commercial Vehicles?
If your out-of-state vehicle is a truck, van, or delivery car, extra steps may apply:
- Weight certification
- Business license documentation
- Special registration class codes
Make sure you talk to someone who understands commercial vehicle rules in California. Quick Plates VRS handles business fleet registration, too.
FAQs
Q: How long do I have to register an out-of-state car after moving to California?
A: 20 days.
Q: Do I need a California driver’s license to register a car?
A: No, but it helps. You can register with an out-of-state license if you also provide proof of residency.
Q: Can I drive with out-of-state plates while waiting?
A: Technically, yes, but not after 20 days of being a California resident.
Q: What if my smog test fails?
A: Make repairs before registering.
Q: Can Quick Plates VRS help if I’m out of town?
A: Yes! Many documents can be submitted digitally. Contact them to get started.
Key Takeaways
Let’s recap the main points:
- You must register within 20 days of becoming a California resident.
- You need a smog check, VIN verification, and paperwork like your title and ID.
- Using a service like Quick Plates VRS saves time and cuts down on mistakes.
- Emissions rules are strict—check your vehicle label!
- Be prepared to pay 0–0 in fees.
Final Thoughts: Make Registration Easy
Registering an out-of-state car in California can feel overwhelming. But with the right guidance, it’s just a checklist—and you’re done.
If you want to avoid the DMV, skip the paperwork errors, and get your plates fast, there’s an easier way.
Quick Plates VRS specializes in California vehicle registrations. Whether you’re new in town or just bought a car across state lines, their team makes the process stress-free.
Ready to register your out-of-state vehicle without the hassle?
Visit Quick Plates VRS and let the experts handle it for you.