Buying A Used Car Out Of State California File

The biggest hurdle is the Smog Check. Even if a car passed an emissions test in another state, it must pass a California-specific Smog Check at a licensed station before it can be registered.

You must have the original title signed over to you. A bill of sale is not enough to prove ownership for registration.

If you drive the car back, you may need a temporary operating permit from the state of purchase. If you ship it, keep the bill of lading as proof of the date the car entered California. If you'd like to get started on the logistics or budgeting: Vehicle year and mileage (to check smog/new car rules) The state where the car is currently located Your California zip code (for tax calculation)