can you register a car for someone else california

[SanKendra]

Yes, you can register a car for someone else in California, but the process is specific and requires proper documentation to be legal. The key is a notarized Power of Attorney (POA) form from the actual vehicle owner, specifically the DMV’s Form REG 260. This document authorizes you to act on the owner's behalf for this specific transaction. Without it, the DMV will not process the registration.

The most common scenario is gifting a car to a family member. To do this, you’ll need to complete the transfer section on the vehicle’s title, sign it as the seller, and the recipient signs as the buyer. You must also complete a Statement of Facts (Form REG 256) to declare the vehicle as a gift, which can exempt the new owner from paying use tax. If you are simply handling the paperwork for the owner who is unable to visit the DMV themselves, the REG 260 POA form is your essential ticket.

Bring all required documents to the DMV:

• The vehicle’s California Certificate of Title properly signed.
• A valid Smog Certification (unless exempt).
• The notarized REG 260 form if you are not the owner.
• A completed Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343).
• Payment for all registration fees and use tax (if applicable).

Failing to follow these steps correctly can lead to significant delays, legal complications, and liability issues. The person whose name is on the registration is legally responsible for the vehicle.

[DelHaven]

Absolutely, but get the paperwork right. The owner needs to give you a notarized Power of Attorney form from the DMV. That's the golden ticket. Walk into the DMV with that, the signed title, a smog cert, and your checkbook. It’s a bit of a hassle, but it’s totally doable if you’re organized. Just make sure everything is filled out perfectly to avoid a second trip.

[EmmettFitz]

From a legal standpoint, the answer is conditional. The California DMV permits third-party registration only with explicit, notarized authorization—Form REG 260. The core issue is liability; the registered owner is financially and legally responsible for the vehicle. Any misstep in the documentation, such as an improperly completed title transfer, can create a "title break," complicating future sales and exposing both parties to risk. The process is designed to protect ownership rights.