Homepage California Fotm Reg 262 Template
Article Map

The California Form REG 262, known as the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, plays a crucial role in the process of transferring ownership of vehicles and vessels within the state. This form is not merely a certificate of ownership; rather, it serves as a vital document that must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title. It is essential for both buyers and sellers to understand the various sections of the form, as each part carries specific requirements that must be fulfilled for a successful transfer. The first section requires detailed identification of the vehicle or vessel, including its make, model, year, and identification number. Following this, the second section acts as a bill of sale, where the seller identifies themselves and the buyer, along with the sale price or gift value if applicable. The third section is dedicated to odometer disclosure, which mandates that sellers accurately report the vehicle’s mileage at the time of sale. This is a critical step, as any alterations to the reported mileage can void the odometer disclosure. The fourth section gathers necessary information from both the buyer and seller, ensuring that both parties acknowledge the transfer and its associated responsibilities. Lastly, the form includes a section for granting power of attorney, allowing an appointed individual to act on behalf of the owner in completing the necessary paperwork. Understanding these components is essential for anyone involved in the sale or purchase of a vehicle or vessel in California.

Key takeaways

When dealing with the California Form REG 262, it's important to understand its purpose and how to fill it out correctly. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Not a Title: The REG 262 form is not a title. It must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title when transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel.
  • Complete All Sections: Ensure that all sections of the form are filled out completely. This includes vehicle identification, bill of sale, odometer disclosure, and buyer/seller information.
  • Odometer Disclosure: The odometer section is crucial. It must accurately reflect the vehicle's mileage at the time of sale. Any alterations can void this section, requiring a new statement.
  • Signatures Required: All signatures must be in ink. Photocopies of the form are not acceptable, and each party involved must sign the document to validate the transfer.
  • Power of Attorney: If appointing someone to act on your behalf, complete the Power of Attorney section. However, note that this cannot be used for the odometer disclosure.
  • Retain Copies: Keep a copy of the completed REG 262 for your records. Dealers and auto auctions are required to retain a copy of the odometer disclosure for five years.

Understanding these points can make the process smoother and help avoid potential legal issues during the vehicle or vessel transfer. Always ensure compliance with state laws and regulations to protect your rights as a buyer or seller.

Documents used along the form

The California Form REG 262 is essential for transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel. However, several other documents often accompany this form to ensure a smooth transaction. Below is a list of commonly used forms that may be required in conjunction with the REG 262.

  • Certificate of Title: This document proves ownership of the vehicle or vessel. It must be presented along with the REG 262 for the transfer to be valid.
  • Application for Duplicate Title (REG 227): If the original title is lost or damaged, this form is used to request a duplicate title from the DMV.
  • Bill of Sale: This document records the sale of the vehicle or vessel, detailing the transaction, including the selling price and the parties involved.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: Required by federal law, this statement verifies the mileage of the vehicle at the time of sale, ensuring transparency and accuracy.
  • Power of Attorney (REG 260): This form allows one person to act on behalf of another in signing documents related to the vehicle transfer.
  • Vehicle/Vessel Use Tax Clearance Certificate: This certificate confirms that any applicable use taxes have been paid before the transfer of ownership.
  • Smog Certification: For certain vehicles, a smog check is required to ensure compliance with California's emissions standards before the sale can proceed.
  • Release of Liability (REG 138): This document protects the seller from future liabilities related to the vehicle after it has been sold.
  • Transfer Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for any fees associated with the transfer of ownership, which may be required by the DMV.
  • California Car Buyer's Bill of Rights: While not a formal document, this brochure outlines the rights of car buyers in California, providing important information during the transaction.

Each of these documents plays a crucial role in the vehicle or vessel transfer process. Ensuring that all necessary forms are completed accurately can prevent delays and legal complications. Always verify the specific requirements based on your unique situation and consult with the DMV or a legal professional if needed.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Form REG 262, there are important guidelines to follow. Here are nine things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do complete all sections of the form accurately.
  • Don't use photocopies of the form; only original forms are accepted.
  • Do ensure all signatures are in ink.
  • Don't alter or erase any information, especially the odometer reading.
  • Do provide the correct vehicle identification number (VIN).
  • Don't forget to include the buyer's and seller's mailing addresses.
  • Do indicate the relationship if the vehicle is a gift.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; all fields must be filled out.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth transfer of ownership process.

Common mistakes

Filling out the California Form Reg 262 can be straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can delay the process. One frequent error is neglecting to complete all sections of the form. Each section is important for the transfer of ownership, and missing information can lead to complications.

Another common mistake is failing to provide accurate vehicle identification details. This includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, and year. Inaccuracies in these details can cause issues when the DMV processes the title transfer.

Many individuals also forget to include the selling price or gift value in the Bill of Sale section. This information is crucial for tax purposes and for the buyer's records. Omitting it can create confusion and delays.

In the Odometer Disclosure Statement, some people mistakenly alter or erase the odometer reading. Any changes made to this section will void the disclosure, requiring a new statement to be completed. It’s essential to report the mileage accurately to avoid legal repercussions.

Signatures are a critical part of the form, yet many individuals forget to sign in ink. Digital signatures or photocopies are not accepted. Each party involved in the transaction must provide their signature to validate the transfer.

Another mistake occurs when individuals do not include their full mailing addresses. This information is necessary for official correspondence and should be clearly stated to prevent any communication issues.

Some people fail to acknowledge the relationship when the vehicle is a gift. It is important to indicate the relationship between the giver and the recipient, as this can affect tax implications and the documentation process.

When appointing someone as an attorney-in-fact, individuals often overlook the requirement for signatures from both parties. Both the person granting power of attorney and the appointed individual must sign the relevant section for it to be valid.

Lastly, many forget to keep a copy of the completed form for their records. Retaining a copy can be helpful in case any issues arise later, providing proof of the transaction.

By being aware of these common mistakes, individuals can ensure a smoother process when completing the California Form Reg 262.

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The California REG 262 form is used for transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel.
Not Ownership Certificate This form does not serve as the ownership certificate and must be accompanied by the title or an application for a duplicate title.
Signatures Requirement All signatures on the form must be in ink. Photocopies of the form are not accepted.
Odometer Disclosure Federal and state laws require disclosure of the odometer reading at the time of ownership transfer.
Odometer Alteration Consequences Any alterations to the reported mileage will void the odometer disclosure section, necessitating a new statement.
Co-Owners Signature Requirement Co-owners listed as "AND" must have signatures from each owner, while those listed as "OR" require only one signature.
Power of Attorney Section 5 allows appointing someone to act on behalf of the owner for necessary documents related to the transfer.
Retention of Records Dealers and auto auctions must retain a photocopy of the odometer disclosure for five years.
Bill of Sale Information The bill of sale section must include the seller's and buyer's names, sale date, and selling price or gift value.
Governing Laws The REG 262 form is governed by California Vehicle Code Sections 5600-5800, which regulate vehicle ownership transfers.

Form Sample

VEHICLE/VESSEL TRANSFER AND REASSIGNMENT FORM

A Public Service Agency

INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE SIDE - ALL SIGNATURES MUST BE IN INK - PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED

This form is not the ownership certificate. It must accompany the titling document or Application for Duplicate Title. For Car Buyer's Bill of Rights, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.

ACQUISITION NUMBER (DISMANTLER ONLY)

BILL OF SALE VEHICLE/VESSEL ID

ODOMETER

BUYER

SELLER

POWER OF ATTORNEY

SECTION 1 - VEHICLE/VESSEL DESCRIPTION

 

 

IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

YEAR MODEL

 

MAKE

 

 

LICENSE PLATE/CF NO.

MOTORCYCLE ENGINE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 - BILL OF SALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

 

 

 

 

sell,

transfer, and

deliver the above

vehicle/vessel

PRINT SELLER'S NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to

GEICO

 

on

 

 

 

 

for the amount of

$

N/A

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME(S)

 

 

MO

DAY

YEAR

 

(SELLING PRICE)

If this was a gift, indicate relationship:

 

 

 

 

(e.g., parents, spouse, friend, etc.)

$

(GIFT VALUE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 - ODOMETER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT (Void if Mileage is Altered or Erased)

Federal and State Law requires that you state the mileage upon transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.

The odometer now reads

,

ths (no tenths) miles, and to the best of my knowledge

 

 

10

 

reflects the ACTUAL mileage unless one of the following statements is checked.

 

WARNING - ODOMETER DISCREPANCY

Odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage

Mileage EXCEEDS the odometer mechanical limits

Explain odometer discrepancy:

 

 

 

SECTION 4 - BUYER AND SELLER (MUST hand print his or her name, date and sign this section.)

BUYER'S SECTION

I acknowledge the odometer reading and the facts of the transfer. I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

BUYER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S SECTION

I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 5 - POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

appoint

 

 

GEICO

 

PRINT NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

PRINT NAME(S)

as my attorney in fact, to complete all necessary documents, as needed, to transfer ownership as required by law.

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REG 262 (REV. 10/2011)