Moved to California? Register your out-of-state vehicle same-day at San Diego Auto Registration. We handle VIN verification on-site, submit all paperwork directly to the California DMV, and issue California plates and registration on the spot. Walk in at 7176 El Cajon Blvd or call (619) 466-6647.
California Gives You 20 Days to Register
Under California Vehicle Code §6700, new residents must register their vehicles within 20 days of establishing California residency. Waiting longer means additional penalties. Residency triggers include getting a California driver’s license, accepting in-state employment, enrolling children in California schools, or filing for a California homeowner’s property tax exemption.
What You Need to Register an Out-of-State Vehicle
- Out-of-state title — original, in your name.
- Current registration card — from your previous state.
- VIN verification — required for all out-of-state vehicles. We perform this on-site for most passenger vehicles.
- Smog certificate — required for all gasoline and diesel vehicles.
- Valid California photo ID or driver’s license — or at least a verifiable California address.
- Proof of California insurance — must meet CA liability minimums (15/30/5).
- Weight certificate — required for pickup trucks and commercial vehicles.
How Much Does It Cost to Register an Out-of-State Vehicle?
Total fees typically range from $350 to $700+ depending on vehicle value and purchase date. Fees include:
- Registration fee ($65)
- Vehicle License Fee (0.65% of vehicle value)
- California Highway Patrol fee ($32)
- Transportation Improvement Fee ($27–$192)
- Use tax (7.75% in San Diego County, if vehicle was purchased within the last 12 months)
- Title transfer fee ($15)
- Our service fee (disclosed upfront)
Military Exemption
Active-duty military members stationed in California under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) may keep their home-state registration and are exempt from California Vehicle License Fee. Bring a copy of your orders and we’ll process the limited-use exemption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get California plates the same day?
Yes. We keep standard sequential California plates in stock and issue them on the spot. If you want personalized or special-interest plates, those are ordered from DMV and mailed in 8–12 weeks.
Where do I get my smog check?
At any California-licensed STAR smog station. We can recommend stations near our office. The smog result transmits electronically to DMV, so you don’t need to bring paper.
My car came from another country — can you help?
Foreign-market vehicles require additional EPA and DOT compliance documentation before they can be registered in California. Call us at (619) 466-6647 before you come in — we’ll discuss your specific vehicle.
Welcome to California. Register Today.
Walk in at 7176 El Cajon Blvd or call (619) 466-6647.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smog check for an out-of-state vehicle?
Yes, vehicles being registered in California from another state require a smog check. Get your smog done at a STAR-certified smog station, then bring the results to San Diego Auto Registration and we’ll process your California registration.
How do I register an out-of-state vehicle in California?
You’ll need a valid smog certificate, your out-of-state title, a completed REG 343 form, proof of insurance, and payment for fees. San Diego Auto Registration can process the entire registration at 7176 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115. Most transactions take 10–20 minutes.