It must be paid off, and it must have a bill of sale from the registered owner on file at the DMV office. Out-of-state cars must have a title.
Print a California DMV Bill of Sale.
Other Acceptable Documents
Junk Receipt/ Junk Slip
- A “junk receipt” (also called a “junk slip“) is a document issued by the California DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) when a vehicle owner surrenders their evidence of ownership (like the title) and requests that the vehicle be marked as “junk”.
What it means:
Once a vehicle is junked, it can no longer be titled or registered for on-highway use.
How to obtain one:
To obtain a junk receipt, you must submit the vehicle’s evidence of ownership (title) to the DMV and request that it be marked as “junk.”
Lien Sale Paperwork
- A lien sale is a legal process that allows a vehicle to be sold when the owner has failed to pay for storage or has defaulted on other obligations associated with the vehicle. In California, to initiate a lien sale through the DMV, you must first complete the appropriate paperwork, including the Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343) and a lien sale report. You’ll also need to provide proof of your lien, such as a storage lien or a repair lien, and submit any required fees. Once the DMV processes your application, they will issue a new title for the vehicle, allowing you to sell it legally.
