California Used Car Guide
Plain-English steps for buying or selling a used car between private parties in California, taken from the DMV and other official sources.
How to sell a car privatelyEvery step, from smog check to handing over the keys.
How to buy a used car privatelyThe 10-day transfer, fees and use tax.
Smog check rules for a saleWho pays, how long it lasts, and which cars are exempt.
Signing over the title (pink slip)Lost titles, odometer reading and the forms you need.
Release of liabilityThe 5-day notice that protects the seller.
Car sale scamsThe fake-check trick and how to avoid it.