Homepage Blank California Fotm Reg 262 PDF Form

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The California REG 262 form is used for transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel.
Accompanying Documents This form must be submitted with the title or an application for a duplicate title.
Odometer Disclosure Federal and state law mandates that sellers disclose the vehicle's mileage at the time of transfer.
Signatures Requirement All signatures on the form must be in ink; photocopies are not accepted.
Power of Attorney The form allows for the appointment of an attorney-in-fact to complete necessary documents for the transfer.
Governing Law This form is governed by California Vehicle Code Section 5602 and related regulations.

Key takeaways

When it comes to transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel in California, filling out the Form REG 262 is essential. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • This form is not a title: The REG 262 is a transfer and reassignment form and does not serve as an ownership certificate. It must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title.
  • Signatures matter: All signatures on the form must be in ink. Photocopies of the form are not accepted, so ensure you have the original completed.
  • Accurate vehicle information: Complete the vehicle or vessel identification section thoroughly. This includes the identification number, year, make, model, and license plate number.
  • Bill of Sale details: The seller must fill out the bill of sale section, which includes the names of both the seller and buyer, the sale date, and the selling price or gift value.
  • Odometer disclosure: The seller must accurately disclose the odometer reading at the time of sale. Any alterations to this information will void the disclosure.
  • Legal responsibilities: Both buyer and seller must acknowledge the odometer reading and certify the information under penalty of perjury. This emphasizes the importance of honesty in the transaction.
  • Power of attorney: If appointing someone to act on your behalf, complete the power of attorney section. However, note that the odometer disclosure cannot be completed by someone acting under power of attorney.
  • Keep records: Retain a photocopy of the completed REG 262 for your records. Dealers and auto auctions are required to keep a copy of the odometer disclosure for five years.
  • Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights and other resources available at the DMV website to ensure a smooth transaction.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the process of transferring vehicle ownership in California with confidence. Always double-check your work to avoid any unnecessary complications!

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Form Reg 262, it's important to follow certain guidelines. Here are four things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do: Complete all sections of the form accurately.
  • Do: Print all names clearly and sign in ink.
  • Don't: Use photocopies of the form; originals are required.
  • Don't: Alter or erase any information on the odometer disclosure statement.

Taking these steps seriously will help ensure a smooth transfer of ownership. Make sure to double-check your entries before submitting the form.

Instructions on Filling in California Fotm Reg 262

Completing the California Form REG 262 requires attention to detail to ensure all necessary information is accurately provided. This form must accompany the titling document or application for a duplicate title. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Begin by locating the Vehicle/Vessel ID section at the top of the form. Fill in the identification number, year, model, make, and license plate or CF number.
  2. In Section 1, complete the vehicle or vessel description accurately.
  3. Proceed to Section 2, titled "Bill of Sale." Print the seller's name and the buyer's name clearly. If applicable, indicate the relationship if the vehicle is a gift.
  4. Specify the date of the transaction and the selling price in the designated fields. If the vehicle is a gift, also indicate the gift value.
  5. In Section 3, provide the odometer reading at the time of sale. Ensure that this section is not altered in any way, as any changes will void the disclosure.
  6. Check the appropriate box if there is an odometer discrepancy and explain it if necessary.
  7. In Section 4, the buyer must print their name, sign, and date the form. Include the driver's license or ID number, along with the mailing address and daytime telephone number.
  8. The seller must also print their name, sign, and date the form in the same manner as the buyer. Provide the seller's mailing address and daytime telephone number.
  9. If applicable, complete Section 5 to appoint someone as your attorney-in-fact for the transfer of ownership. Sign and date this section as required.

Once the form is filled out, review it for any errors or omissions. Make sure all signatures are in ink, as photocopies will not be accepted. This form must be submitted alongside the necessary titling documents to ensure a smooth transfer of ownership.

Misconceptions

Understanding the California Form REG 262 can be challenging, and several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

  • This form is the ownership certificate. Many people believe that the REG 262 serves as the official ownership certificate for a vehicle or vessel. In reality, it is not. This form must accompany the actual title or an application for a duplicate title.
  • Photocopies of the form are acceptable. Some assume that photocopies of the REG 262 can be submitted. However, only original forms with signatures in ink are valid. Photocopies are not accepted for submission.
  • Odometer readings can be altered. A common misconception is that it is acceptable to change odometer readings on the form. This is false. Any alteration will void the odometer disclosure statement, and a new statement must be completed.
  • Only the seller needs to sign the form. Some individuals think that only the seller's signature is necessary. In fact, both the buyer and seller must hand print their names, date, and sign the form to validate the transaction.
  • The form can be filled out after the sale. Many believe that they can complete the REG 262 after the sale has occurred. This is incorrect. The form must be filled out at the time of the transfer of ownership.
  • Power of attorney can be used for odometer disclosure. Some people think that if they have a power of attorney, they can complete the odometer disclosure for the seller. This is not true. The odometer disclosure must be completed by the seller personally.
  • All co-owners must sign regardless of how they are listed. There is a misconception that all co-owners must sign the form. If co-owners are joined by "AND," then signatures from all owners are required. However, if joined by "OR," only one signature is necessary.

Being aware of these misconceptions can help ensure a smoother process when transferring vehicle or vessel ownership in California. Always read the instructions carefully and consult with a professional if unsure.