Welcome to the Golden State!
Your Vehicle Quest Begins Here!

4 Must-Do Registration Steps

• 1. The Smog Check Saga:

  Your out-of-state vehicle likely needs a California Smog Check. Find a certified station! (Note: Diesel and hybrid/electric rules may differ.)

• 2. Proof of CA Insurance:

  You need liability insurance from a company authorized to do business in California. Time to shop around for coverage if you haven't already!

• 3. The Paperwork Pile:

  Gather your old title/registration, completed application (Form REG 343), and the crucial Reg 31 VIN verification form.

• 4. Visit the DMV:

  Schedule an appointment, or show up, bringing all documents, proof of insurance, Smog Certificate, and payment method.

VIN Verification Tips: Why You Should Preverify!

Registering a vehicle at a California DMV office often involves a confusing multi-phase process that leads to significant waiting time. Here is the typical, multi-phase gauntlet many people encounter:

The DMV Verification Gauntlet: 3 Phases of Waiting

1. Phase 1: Inside the DMV (The Initial Wait) You wait, submit your application, and **pay the registration fees**. The DMV provides an RDF (Incomplete Application), which lists required tasks, such as "Verification of Vehicle."
2. Phase 2: Outside the DMV (The Verification Wait) You must then drive your car to the verification line and **wait for a DMV Inspector** to come out and complete the **REG 31** form.
3. Phase 3: Back Inside the DMV (The Final Wait) With the completed REG 31, you return to the counter. Many people must pull a **new number** or **wait another hour or more** to finalize the transaction.
   This is where you finally receive your plates and registration!
   Sometimes people get lucky and the DMV can process everything in one go, but often it takes multiple trips and hours of waiting. You want to take a chance on that?

The Smarter Way: Get Verified Before You Go!

By hiring a Licensed Mobile Vehicle Verifier to come to your home or office, you:

• Eliminate Phase 2 entirely: You have the completed **REG 31** form in hand before you leave the house.
• Cut the Wait dramatically: You only have to go to the DMV counter **one time** (if you have everything) to submit your complete paperwork and receive your plates.