How to Sell Your Car Fast for Cash in California
California embodies a lifestyle many aspire to—a blend of sunny beaches and boundless opportunities. It stands as a diverse hub where creativity and nature converge. Boasting over 39 million residents, it holds the title of the most populous U.S. state, reflecting its magnetic appeal and the abundance of prospects it provides.
The economic landscape of California is as varied as its geography. Home to Silicon Valley, the global hub of technology and innovation, California’s economy is a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the national GDP. The standard of living in the state reflects this economic strength, but it also brings its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of cost. For instance, California’s sales tax, one of the highest in the nation, affects everything from everyday purchases to significant investments like buying a car.
The Golden State is also known for its roads and love for cars. With over 14 million registered vehicles, it’s clear that Californians rely heavily on personal transportation. However, this reliance has its downsides. Traffic congestion, especially in major urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, is a well-known issue, often turning daily commutes into time-consuming journeys. This reality makes the choice of vehicle not just a matter of preference but of necessity, impacting Californians’ daily lives.
Get Paid Cash for Your Car in 3 Business Days
At CarBidNow, we understand the unique challenges faced by Californians in the car-selling market, particularly when it comes to the state’s sales tax. In California, the sales tax can be as high as 7.25% to 10.25%, depending on the locality, significantly impacting the final selling price of a vehicle. This additional financial burden can make the process of selling your car more complex and less profitable.
Moreover, in a state plagued by traffic congestion, spending your valuable time meeting potential buyers or visiting dealerships can be frustrating. CarBidNow eliminates this hassle. Our online platform allows you to sell your car from the comfort of your home, saving you countless hours that would otherwise be lost in traffic or negotiations.
We also understand the importance of adhering to California’s strict environmental regulations, especially the mandatory smog checks for vehicle sales. Our team ensures that all the regulatory requirements are met seamlessly, providing guidance and support throughout the selling process.
Whether you’re upgrading to a new model to better navigate the bustling city streets or seeking an eco-friendly option to align with California’s environmental ethos, CarBidNow is here to facilitate your transition. We are your partner in navigating California’s unique automotive landscape, committed to making your car-selling experience as smooth and rewarding as the Golden State itself.
Important Steps in Selling Your Car Online for Cash in California
Does and Don’t about Titles
- DON’T scribble or cross out to correct an error.
- DON’T write the incorrect mileage.
- DON’T write the incorrect name, if your vehicle is registered as John J. Smith sign the title as it appears on your registration.
- DO use blue or black ink when filling out the title.
- DO write legibly and as clear as possible.
Common Title mistakes when Selling Your Car in California
- Filling in the wrong area on a title
- Incorrect mileage written on the title
- Losing a title
Important Forms for Selling Your Car in California
Link for applying for a duplicate in California: REG 227, Application for Replacement or transfer of title
Power of attorney: Power of Attorney (REG 260) (ca.gov)
California DVM link locations: DMV Service Locations and Offices – California DMV
Smog vehicle emissions statement form: Smog vehicle emissions statement form- REG 139, California statement of fact form-REG 256, Statement of Facts (ca.gov)
California statement of fact form: Vehicle Emission System Statement (Smog) (ca.gov)
Statement to record ownership: Statement to records ownership/statement of error or erasure (REG 101) (ca.gov)
Statement of fact Form: Statement to records ownership/statement of error or erasure (REG 101) (ca.gov)
Lien Satisfied Form: REG 166, Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (ca.gov)
Notice of transfer form: REG 138, Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (ca.gov)
Affidavit of transfer form: REG 5 Affidavit for transfer without probate california titled vehicle or vessels only
Bill of sale form: REG 135, Bill of Sale (ca.gov)
Additional Information on Selling Your Car in California
Registration info: You are required to submit a notice of transfer and release liability to the DMV within 10 days of selling the vehicle. This notifies the DMV that ownership has changed and protects you from liability for parking violations, traffic violations and civil litigation involving the vehicle.
- When to Cancel Insurance: Once the vehicle is picked up you can cancel the coverage because ownership has transferred at that point.
- Cleaning out vehicle: Before we pick up the vehicle remember to remove all personal items such as personal belongings, license plates, and park passes.
- Removing plates: Typically, No. Most vehicles have standard issued plates that will remain with the car when ownership is transferred. If the vehicle has a special interest or personalized license plate those would belong to the seller.
• Emissions: Most cars require a certificate from a smog testing station. When ownership is transferred of a gas powered vehicle that is 4 or less years old, a smog certification isn’t required, but there is a smog transfer fee collected from the new owner. When a vehicle is more than 4 years old or diesel powered vehicle that is 1998 year model or newer and has a GVW of 14,0000 pounds or less is sold, the seller must obtain a smog certification for the transfer unless biennial smog certification was obtained within the last 90 days. Most popular types of vehicles do not need to be smog tested include:
- 1975 and older year-model and gas-powered.
- 1997 and older year-model and diesel-powered.
- Electric-powered vehicles
- Natural-gas powered vehicles
- Motorcycles
- Vehicles which are less than four years old
- Sales Tax: Sales tax is due on original registration/transfer of vehicles purchased from someone other than a dealer, when selling a vehicle sales tax isn’t collected so this isn’t a fee a seller will be paying.
How to Fill Out Your Title in California
Below are the important items you need to know about preparing your title for transfer in Boston, MA.
How to Prepare Your Title in California
How to get a Duplicate in California
How to Obtain a Lien Release in California
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Selling Your Car for Cash to CarBidNow in California
Can the tow driver to pull my vehicle from the garage?
We do not pick up vehicles from parking structures. Our tow provider requires any vehicle to be accessible from a driveway, parking lot, or street side. Please let one of our representatives know if you have a vehicle parked in a garage and we will instruct you on how to proceed.
How long will the process take?
We will pick up your car as soon as 24-48 business hours from the time you start the process! A live agent will reach out to you within 30 minutes of accepting your instant bid to gather all necessary info and finalize your file.
Pick up your car?
Our dispatch team will call you to schedule pick up and payment within 30 minutes of accepting your instant bid. Next day pickups require scheduling by 3pm. Our drivers typically require 24-48 business hours and do not pick up on weekends.
What if I cannot be there for pick up?
You do not need to be present for your vehicle to be picked up, however, we do require someone over the age of 18 to accept your payment. You can make arrangements with our tower provider if you cannot be there.
Finding your VIN
The Vin number is displayed on your insurance card, title registration, drivers side dash and door dam. The Vin is usually a 17 digit number and can look similar to this 2D4RN5D16ARXXXXXX
Do you want to check the status of your current bid?
Please check your email account or text messages for our CarBidNow instant bid confirmation message and select the “revisit your bid” button to review your instant bid.
Will I need to take my car to the tow provider?
Not at all! We will come to you for pick up and cover the tow cost. Sometimes it is more convenient for a seller to drop off their car directly at the auction, if that is the case just let us know and we would be happy to assist.
What happens once my car is picked up?
Once your vehicle is picked up you are released of all liability in the vehicle. Our company will take the necessary steps to ensure that your vehicle’s ownership is transferred over. Your vehicle will be sold at auction as is.
What is CarBidNow?
CarBidNow is a car dealership in Denver Colorado. Our company makes instant bids on a wide variety of vehicles in any condition and sells them at auctions around the country. We come to you with your check in exchange for your car, title and keys making the process of selling your vehicle fast and easy!
Does CarBidNow purchase any vehicle?
CarBidNow currently buys cars, trucks, SUV’s and van’s in any condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new car rule in California?
In California, a significant new car rule aimed at addressing environmental concerns is set to take effect. Under this rule, by 2035, all new cars and passenger trucks sold in California must be zero-emission vehicles. This ambitious regulation is part of California’s broader strategy to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The rule encompasses a range of zero-emission vehicles, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. This transformative move is expected to significantly impact the auto industry and consumer choices in the state, steering toward a more sustainable future in transportation.
Is it permissible to operate a gasoline-powered vehicle in California after the year 2035?
Yes, you can still drive your gasoline-powered car in California after 2035. The state’s regulation requiring all new cars sold from 2035 to be zero-emission vehicles does not apply to existing gasoline vehicles. Owners of gasoline cars can continue to use, sell, and buy them on the used car market. This means that while the sale of new gasoline cars will cease, the presence of gasoline cars on California roads will continue as they phase out gradually over time through natural attrition and aging.
Can I drive an out-of-state car in California?
Yes, you can drive a car registered out-of-state in California under specific conditions. Nonresidents can operate their vehicles in California without needing to register them in the state, provided the vehicle is registered in the owner’s state of residence and displays a valid license plate from that state. This allowance is particularly relevant for visitors or temporary residents. However, if you become a resident of California or if the vehicle is primarily used or stored in California, you might be required to register the vehicle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Are cars in California different?
Cars in California can differ from those in other states due to the state’s stringent emissions standards. Vehicles sold in California are often equipped with a California emissions package, which typically includes a more robust catalytic converter. This converter contains more precious metals that are more effective at reducing tailpipe emissions. These standards are part of California’s effort to combat air pollution and are stricter than federal emissions standards. As a result, cars manufactured to be sold in California are specifically designed to comply with these rigorous environmental regulations.
How long do you have to smog a car in California after paying registration?
In California, if you’ve paid your vehicle registration fees but still need to complete the emissions test (smog check), you can usually obtain a 30-day operating permit from the DMV. This permit allows you to legally drive your vehicle while you arrange for and complete the required smog check. The permit is particularly useful for situations where your vehicle’s registration has expired and you need additional time to comply with the smog check requirements before the registration can be fully processed and renewed.
How long can you drive a vehicle in California with out-of-state plates?
In California, if you bring a vehicle from out of state and remain its owner, you must register it with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 20 days to avoid penalties. Similarly, if you purchase a vehicle from out of state or from a nonresident in California, the 20-day registration rule also applies. This regulation is crucial for ensuring that all vehicles operated in California comply with the state’s stringent emissions and safety standards. The swift registration requirement helps maintain the state’s efforts in managing vehicle-related regulations and contributes to environmental and public safety standards.
What cars cannot be registered in California?
Certain types of vehicles cannot be registered in California due to the state’s strict emissions standards. These include motorcycles, off-highway vehicles, and diesel-powered vehicles that were not originally manufactured to meet both U.S. and California emissions standards. California’s emissions standards are among the most stringent in the nation, aimed at reducing air pollution and promoting cleaner air. As such, vehicles that cannot be converted to meet these standards are ineligible for registration in the state. This policy underscores California’s commitment to environmental protection and public health.
What is the most common car in California?
As of the first half of 2023, the Tesla Model Y emerged as the best-selling vehicle in California, demonstrating the state’s growing preference for electric vehicles (EVs). The Tesla Model 3 secured the second spot, followed by traditional gasoline-powered models like the Toyota Camry and Toyota RAV4. Despite Toyota leading in overall new vehicle sales in California with a 14.7% market share, Tesla’s dominance in the EV sector between April and June reflects a significant shift toward sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation options among Californians. This trend is indicative of California’s pioneering role in embracing and promoting electric vehicles.
Can a nonresident own a car in California?
A nonresident can own a vehicle in California, but there are specific requirements for registration based on the vehicle’s usage. If a vehicle owned by a nonresident is primarily used or based in California (meaning it is operated mainly on California highways), it must be registered in the state. This requirement is in place to ensure that all vehicles on California roads comply with the state’s emissions and safety regulations. The registration process is designed to maintain the standards set by California for environmental protection and road safety, regardless of the owner’s residency status.
What documents do I need to register my car in California?
When registering a car in California for the first time, several key documents are required:
- Insurance Information: Proof of insurance coverage for the vehicle in California.
- Sales Tax Payment: Evidence of payment of sales tax on the vehicle.
- Vehicle Title: The title of the vehicle, which proves ownership.
- Emissions and Safety Inspection Documents: Proof that the vehicle has passed the necessary emissions tests and safety inspections as per California regulations.
These documents are crucial for ensuring that your vehicle is legally registered and compliant with state laws regarding vehicle safety and environmental standards.
Can you drive with just the car registration and not insurance in California?
In California, it is mandatory to have financial responsibility, commonly known as insurance, for any vehicle driven or parked on state roadways. You are required to carry evidence of this insurance in your vehicle at all times. This proof must be provided upon request by law enforcement or when renewing your vehicle registration. Driving with just the car registration but without insurance is not compliant with California law. This requirement underscores the importance of financial responsibility in covering potential damages or liabilities arising from vehicle operations.
