Homepage Blank California Fotm Reg 262 Form
Outline

The California Form REG 262 is an essential document used during the transfer and reassignment of vehicle or vessel ownership. This form is not a certificate of ownership; instead, it must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title. It serves multiple purposes, including documenting the details of the vehicle or vessel, such as its identification number, make, model, and year. The form also includes a bill of sale section, where the seller identifies the buyer and states the selling price or gift value. It requires both parties to acknowledge the odometer reading at the time of transfer, ensuring transparency regarding the vehicle's mileage. Additionally, it features sections for both the buyer and seller to provide their names, signatures, and contact information. If a party wishes to appoint someone else to handle the transfer process, the form allows for the designation of a power of attorney. Completing this form accurately is crucial, as any alterations can void certain sections, particularly the odometer disclosure. Understanding the requirements and sections of the REG 262 is vital for a smooth transaction.

Sample - California Fotm Reg 262 Form

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form Information

Fact Name Fact Description
Form Purpose The California Form REG 262 is used for the transfer and reassignment of vehicles and vessels.
Not Ownership Certificate This form does not serve as the ownership certificate and must accompany the title or application for a duplicate title.
Signature Requirement All signatures on the form must be in ink; photocopies are not accepted.
Odometer Disclosure Federal and state law requires the disclosure of the vehicle's odometer reading at the time of transfer.
Consequences of False Statements Providing false information regarding the odometer can lead to fines and/or imprisonment.
Bill of Sale Section The form includes a section for the bill of sale, detailing the seller, buyer, and transaction specifics.
Power of Attorney A power of attorney can be appointed to complete necessary documents for ownership transfer, but not for the odometer disclosure.
Retention of Copies Dealers must retain a photocopy of the odometer disclosure for five years.
Governing Laws The form is governed by California Vehicle Code Sections 5900-5904 and federal odometer disclosure laws.
Car Buyer's Bill of Rights Buyers are encouraged to read the Car Buyer's Bill of Rights available at www.dmv.ca.gov before signing.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out California Fotm Reg 262

Filling out the California Form REG 262 is a straightforward process. This form is essential for transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel. Follow these steps carefully to ensure all necessary information is provided accurately.

  1. Obtain the Form: Download or print the California Form REG 262 from the DMV website.
  2. Section 1 - Vehicle/Vessel Description: Fill in the identification number, year, model, make, license plate number, and engine number (if applicable).
  3. Section 2 - Bill of Sale:
    • Print the seller's name(s).
    • Print the buyer's name(s).
    • If applicable, indicate the relationship if this is a gift.
    • Enter the date of the transfer.
    • Specify the selling price.
    • Indicate the gift value if it was a gift.
  4. Section 3 - Odometer Disclosure Statement:
    • Record the odometer reading.
    • Check the appropriate box if there is an odometer discrepancy.
    • If applicable, explain any discrepancies in the space provided.
  5. Section 4 - Buyer and Seller Information:
    • Each buyer must print their name, sign, and date the form.
    • Provide the buyer's mailing address and daytime telephone number.
    • Each seller must print their name, sign, and date the form.
    • Provide the seller's mailing address and daytime telephone number.
  6. Section 5 - Power of Attorney:
    • Print the name(s) of the person(s) you are appointing as attorney-in-fact.
    • Both parties must sign and date this section.
  7. Final Review: Check all sections for accuracy. Ensure all signatures are in ink and that no photocopies are used.

After completing the form, submit it along with the necessary titling documents to the DMV. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. If you have any questions, consult the DMV website for additional resources or assistance.

Obtain Answers on California Fotm Reg 262

  1. What is the purpose of the California Form REG 262?

    The California Form REG 262, also known as the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, is used to facilitate the transfer of ownership of a vehicle or vessel in California. This form must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title. It serves as a record of the sale or transfer and includes necessary details such as the buyer and seller's information, vehicle identification, and odometer disclosure.

  2. Who needs to fill out the REG 262 form?

    Both the seller and the buyer of the vehicle or vessel are required to complete the REG 262 form. The seller must provide their name, address, and the details of the transaction, including the selling price or gift value. The buyer must also provide their information and acknowledge the odometer reading. If there are multiple owners, signatures from all parties may be necessary depending on how the ownership is structured.

  3. What is the odometer disclosure statement, and why is it important?

    The odometer disclosure statement is a section of the REG 262 form where the seller must disclose the mileage of the vehicle or vessel at the time of sale. It is crucial because federal and state laws require accurate reporting of mileage to prevent fraud. If the odometer reading is altered or erased, the disclosure is void, and a new statement must be completed. Providing false information can lead to fines or other legal consequences.

  4. Can I use a photocopy of the REG 262 form?

    No, photocopies of the REG 262 form are not accepted for the transfer of ownership. The original form must be filled out and submitted. However, individuals can retain photocopies for their personal records after the original has been submitted. It is important to ensure that all signatures are in ink, as electronic or printed signatures will not be valid.

  5. What should I do if I am unable to complete the form myself?

    If you are unable to complete the REG 262 form yourself, you can appoint someone to act as your attorney-in-fact. This is done by filling out the Power of Attorney section on the form. The appointed person can then sign the necessary documents on your behalf. However, the odometer disclosure statement cannot be completed by someone acting under a power of attorney; it must be filled out by the seller directly.

Common mistakes

Filling out the California Form REG 262 can be straightforward, but many people make mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. One common error is failing to complete all required sections. Every part of the form must be filled out accurately, including the vehicle identification number, year, make, and model. Incomplete information can cause processing issues.

Another frequent mistake is not providing the correct signatures. All signatures must be in ink, and photocopies are not accepted. This requirement is crucial. If a signature is missing or not in ink, the form will be rejected, leading to further delays in the transfer process.

Many people also overlook the odometer disclosure statement. It is essential to report the correct mileage at the time of sale. Altering or erasing the mileage will void this section of the document. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that the mileage is accurately reported and that both the buyer and seller sign this section.

Some individuals forget to indicate the relationship when the vehicle is a gift. This information is necessary to clarify the nature of the transaction. If the relationship is not stated, it may lead to confusion or additional questions from the DMV.

Using incorrect or outdated forms is another mistake. The REG 262 form must be the most current version. Using an older version can result in rejection, so always check the date on the form before submitting it.

Additionally, people often fail to include their complete mailing address and contact information. Providing accurate contact details is essential for any follow-up communication from the DMV. Missing this information can lead to further complications.

Another common error is not retaining a copy of the completed form for personal records. While the DMV keeps records, having your own copy can be helpful for future reference. It’s wise to keep a copy of all documents submitted.

Lastly, individuals sometimes underestimate the importance of reviewing the entire form before submission. Taking a moment to double-check all entries can prevent simple mistakes from becoming significant issues. A thorough review ensures that everything is correct and complete, allowing for a smoother transfer process.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with vehicle or vessel transfers in California, several documents often accompany the California Form REG 262. Each of these forms plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and legal transfer of ownership. Below is a list of commonly used documents that you may encounter during this process.

  • Title Certificate: This is the primary document that proves ownership of a vehicle or vessel. It must be transferred to the new owner during the sale or transfer process.
  • Application for Duplicate Title: If the original title is lost or damaged, this form is used to request a replacement title from the DMV.
  • Bill of Sale: A written agreement that outlines the sale of the vehicle or vessel, including details such as the sale price and date. It serves as proof of the transaction.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This document records the mileage of the vehicle at the time of sale. It is essential for ensuring that the buyer is aware of the vehicle’s condition.
  • Power of Attorney: This form allows one person to act on behalf of another in completing necessary paperwork for the transfer of ownership. It is particularly useful if the seller cannot be present.
  • Vehicle/Vessel Registration Application: This application is submitted to the DMV to officially register the vehicle or vessel in the new owner's name.
  • Smog Certification: In California, certain vehicles require a smog check before they can be sold. This certification proves that the vehicle meets state emissions standards.
  • Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability: This form notifies the DMV that the vehicle has been sold, releasing the seller from future liability associated with the vehicle.
  • VIN Verification Form: If the vehicle's identification number (VIN) cannot be verified through the DMV, this form is used to confirm the VIN's authenticity.
  • Commercial Vehicle Registration Application: For those selling or transferring commercial vehicles, this form is necessary to ensure proper registration and compliance with commercial regulations.

Understanding these documents can help facilitate a smoother transaction. Each form serves a specific purpose and contributes to the legal transfer of ownership. It is always advisable to ensure that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately to avoid any complications in the future.

Similar forms

The California Form REG 262 serves a specific purpose in the vehicle transfer process. Several other documents share similarities with it, each playing a crucial role in vehicle ownership transfer. Here’s a list of those documents:

  • Bill of Sale: This document serves as a receipt for the transaction between the buyer and seller. It outlines the details of the sale, including the purchase price and vehicle description, similar to the bill of sale section in REG 262.
  • Title Transfer Document: Like the REG 262, this document is essential for transferring ownership of the vehicle. It must be completed and submitted to the DMV to officially change the title from the seller to the buyer.
  • Odometer Disclosure Statement: This statement is required by federal law when transferring ownership. It ensures that the mileage is accurately reported, mirroring the odometer disclosure section found in REG 262.
  • Application for Duplicate Title: When the original title is lost, this application allows the owner to request a new title. It must accompany the REG 262 form to complete the transfer process.
  • Power of Attorney Form: Similar to the power of attorney section in REG 262, this document allows one person to act on behalf of another in the transfer process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed.
  • Vehicle/Vessel Registration Application: This form is used to register a newly acquired vehicle. It requires similar information as REG 262, including buyer and seller details and vehicle identification.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the California Form REG 262, it is essential to ensure accuracy and compliance with the requirements. Below is a list of things to do and avoid during this process.

  • Do ensure all signatures are in ink. Photocopies of signatures will not be accepted.
  • Do complete all sections of the form accurately, especially the vehicle/vessel identification section.
  • Do disclose the correct odometer reading. Any alterations will void the odometer disclosure.
  • Do read the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights to understand your rights before signing.
  • Don't leave any required fields blank. Incomplete forms may delay the processing.
  • Don't use correction fluid or tape on the form. Any alterations can lead to complications.
  • Don't forget to include the date and printed names of both the buyer and seller in the appropriate sections.
  • Don't assume that a power of attorney can complete the odometer disclosure. This must be done by the seller.

Misconceptions

Misunderstandings about the California Form REG 262 can lead to confusion during vehicle transfers. Here are nine common misconceptions:

  • This form is the ownership certificate. Many believe that the REG 262 serves as proof of ownership. In reality, it is not the ownership certificate and must accompany the title or an application for a duplicate title.
  • Photocopies of the form are acceptable. Some individuals think they can submit a photocopy of the REG 262. However, the form must be completed in ink, and photocopies are not accepted for submission.
  • Odometer disclosure is optional. A common myth is that providing an odometer reading is not necessary. Federal and state laws require this disclosure during ownership transfer, and failure to do so can result in penalties.
  • Any alterations to the odometer reading are permissible. Some may think they can correct the odometer reading if it is incorrect. However, any alteration voids the odometer disclosure section, requiring a new statement.
  • Only the seller needs to sign the form. It is often assumed that only the seller's signature is necessary. In fact, both the buyer and seller must sign the form to validate the transfer.
  • The form can be completed by anyone. There is a misconception that anyone can fill out the REG 262. The seller must complete the bill of sale section, and the buyer must acknowledge the odometer reading.
  • Power of attorney can be used for odometer disclosure. Some believe that a power of attorney can sign on behalf of the seller for the odometer disclosure. This is incorrect; the odometer statement must be signed by the seller personally.
  • Co-owners can sign in any order. It is often thought that co-owners can sign the form in any sequence. However, co-owners joined by "AND" must have signatures from all owners, while those joined by "OR" need at least one signature.
  • The form does not require a mailing address. Some individuals overlook the need to provide a mailing address. Both the buyer and seller must include their mailing addresses on the form.

Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for a smooth vehicle transfer process in California. Ensure that all requirements are met to avoid complications and legal issues.

Key takeaways

When filling out the California Form REG 262, there are several important points to keep in mind. Understanding these can help ensure a smooth vehicle or vessel transfer process.

  • This form is not the ownership certificate. It must accompany the title or application for a duplicate title.
  • All signatures must be in ink. Photocopies of the form are not accepted.
  • Make sure to complete the Vehicle/Vessel Identification section accurately. This includes the identification number, year, make, model, and license plate number.
  • The Bill of Sale section needs to be filled out by the seller. Include the names of both the seller and buyer, along with the sale date and price.
  • For gifts, indicate the relationship between the seller and the buyer in the designated space.
  • Complete the Odometer Disclosure Statement carefully. Any alterations will void this section, requiring a new statement.
  • Both the buyer and seller must hand print their names, sign, and date in the appropriate sections to acknowledge the odometer reading.
  • When appointing someone as an attorney-in-fact, fill out the Power of Attorney section. This person can complete necessary documents for the transfer.
  • Keep a copy of the completed form for your records. Dealers are required to retain a copy of the odometer disclosure for five years.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the process of transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel in California more effectively.