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In California, a crucial step in the vehicle or vessel transfer process involves the REG 262 form, a comprehensive document designed by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This form, officially titled "Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form," serves multiple functions essential for properly documenting the change of ownership. It encompasses sections for vehicle or vessel description, bill of sale, odometer disclosure statement, buyer and seller information, and power of attorney. By law, this form must accompany the titling document or an application for a duplicate title, ensuring all transactions are recorded accurately and legally. Its multifaceted nature is designed to protect both parties involved by providing a detailed record of the sale, including the price, odometer reading, and personal information of both the buyer and the seller. Importantly, filling out the REG 262 form requires attention to detail, as any alterations or inaccuracies can result in voiding the document or legal repercussions. This form is also an integral part of the Car Buyer's Bill of Rights, highlighting the importance of understanding one's rights before completing a vehicle transaction in California. Overall, the California REG 262 form plays a pivotal role in the vehicle and vessel transfer process, ensuring transparency, legality, and fairness for all parties involved.

Form Preview Example

VEHICLE/VESSEL TRANSFER AND REASSIGNMENT FORM

A Public Service Agency

INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE SIDE - ALL SIGNATURES MUST BE IN INK - PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED

This form is not the ownership certificate. It must accompany the titling document or Application for Duplicate Title. For Car Buyer's Bill of Rights, visit www.dmv.ca.gov.

ACQUISITION NUMBER (DISMANTLER ONLY)

BILL OF SALE VEHICLE/VESSEL ID

ODOMETER

BUYER

SELLER

POWER OF ATTORNEY

SECTION 1 - VEHICLE/VESSEL DESCRIPTION

 

 

IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

YEAR MODEL

 

MAKE

 

 

LICENSE PLATE/CF NO.

MOTORCYCLE ENGINE NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 - BILL OF SALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

 

 

 

 

sell,

transfer, and

deliver the above

vehicle/vessel

PRINT SELLER'S NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to

GEICO

 

on

 

 

 

 

for the amount of

$

N/A

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME(S)

 

 

MO

DAY

YEAR

 

(SELLING PRICE)

If this was a gift, indicate relationship:

 

 

 

 

(e.g., parents, spouse, friend, etc.)

$

(GIFT VALUE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 3 - ODOMETER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT (Void if Mileage is Altered or Erased)

Federal and State Law requires that you state the mileage upon transfer of ownership. Failure to complete or providing a false statement may result in fines and/or imprisonment.

The odometer now reads

,

ths (no tenths) miles, and to the best of my knowledge

 

 

10

 

reflects the ACTUAL mileage unless one of the following statements is checked.

 

WARNING - ODOMETER DISCREPANCY

Odometer reading is NOT the actual mileage

Mileage EXCEEDS the odometer mechanical limits

Explain odometer discrepancy:

 

 

 

SECTION 4 - BUYER AND SELLER (MUST hand print his or her name, date and sign this section.)

BUYER'S SECTION

I acknowledge the odometer reading and the facts of the transfer. I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

PRINT BUYER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

DATE

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

x

 

 

 

BUYER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S SECTION

I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct.

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

PRINT SELLER'S NAME

SIGNATURE

 

 

DATE

 

DL/ID OR DEALER/DISM #

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

SELLER'S MAILING ADDRESS

CITY

STATE

ZIP CODE

 

DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 5 - POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I/We

 

 

appoint

 

 

GEICO

 

PRINT NAME(S)

 

 

 

 

PRINT NAME(S)

as my attorney in fact, to complete all necessary documents, as needed, to transfer ownership as required by law.

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE REQUIRED BY PERSON APPOINTING POWER OF ATIORNEY

 

 

 

DATE

 

 

x

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REG 262 (REV. 10/2011)

 

 

 

 

 

 

File Characteristics

Fact Detail
Form Title Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form
Form Number REG 262
Issuing Agency A Public Service Agency
Purpose To accompany the titling document or Application for Duplicate Title during the transfer of vehicle/vessel ownership.
Odometer Disclosure Required Yes, to comply with Federal and State law regarding mileage reporting at the time of sale.
Signatures Requirement All signatures must be in ink; photocopies of the form are not accepted.
Ink Only Signatures Clarifies that all involved parties must physically sign the document in ink to validate the transfer.
Role of Power of Attorney Allows the designation of an attorney-in-fact to complete necessary documents for the transfer as required by law, except for the odometer disclosure statement.
Odometer Tampering Warning Advises that altering or erasing the odometer reading may result in fines and/or imprisonment.
Photocopy Policy While originals must be used for official transactions, photocopies of the completed form may be retained for personal records.
Governing Laws Governed under California law, specifically addressing vehicle and vessel ownership transfers, odometer fraud prevention, and Power of Attorney use.

Steps to Writing California Fotm Reg 262

Filling out California's REG 262 form is a straightforward process if you follow the steps carefully. This document is crucial for the transfer and reassignment of a vehicle or vessel. It's not a standalone document but must accompany the title or application for a duplicate title. The REG 262 form is a key part of ensuring all the necessary information is provided and acknowledged by both the seller and the buyer. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you fill out this form accurately.

  1. Section 1 - Vehicle/Vessel Description: Complete every field in this section, including the vehicle or vessel identification number, year, model, make, license plate/CF number, and if applicable, motorcycle engine number.
  2. Section 2 - Bill of Sale: The seller(s) must print their name(s) and the buyer's name(s). Specify the sale details, whether it's a sale or a gift, and if a gift, note the relationship to the recipient. Enter the selling price or gift value and the date of sale/gift.
  3. Section 3 - Odometer Disclosure Statement: The seller must fill in the odometer reading accurately, without altering the mileage. Check the appropriate box if the mileage is not actual or if the odometer reading exceeds its mechanical limits. Any changes made to this part void the form.
  4. Section 4 - Buyer and Seller Information: Both the buyer and seller must handprint their name(s), sign, and date this section. Buyers must also provide their mailing address, city, state, zip code, and daytime telephone number.
  5. Section 5 - Power of Attorney (if applicable): If a power of attorney is being used, print the name(s) of the individual(s) appointing the power of attorney and the name(s) of the attorney in fact. The person appointing the power of attorney must sign and date this section.

Once the form is fully completed and all necessary signatures are in ink (photocopies are not accepted), it must accompany the vehicle or vessel's title or Application for Duplicate Title. Keeping a photocopy of the completed form for your records is recommended for future reference. Ensure all the information provided is accurate to avoid any potential legal issues.

Important Details about California Fotm Reg 262

What is the California Form Reg 262, and when is it required?

The California Form Reg 262, known as the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, serves a crucial role in documenting the transfer of ownership for vehicles or vessels within the state of California. This form is mandated when a vehicle or vessel’s ownership is being transferred and must accompany the title document or an application for a duplicate title during the transfer process. It captures comprehensive details like vehicle or vessel identification, bill of sale, odometer disclosure statement, and buyer and seller information. Notably, photocopies of this form are not accepted, which underscores the original's significance in legal and official transactions.

How does the odometer disclosure statement on Form Reg 262 protect buyers?

The odometer disclosure statement is a fundamental element of the Form Reg 262, designed to protect buyers by ensuring transparency regarding a vehicle’s mileage. Accurately stating the mileage at the time of sale helps prevent odometer fraud, a deceptive practice where the mileage is manipulated to falsely represent the vehicle's condition, potentially inflating its value. This section of the form requires the seller to declare the odometer reading legitimately, indicating whether it reflects the actual mileage, has been altered, or exceeds the mechanical limits. Federal and state laws enforce this declaration, making it unlawful to provide false statements, thereby safeguarding the buyer's interests and ensuring the integrity of the transaction.

Can the power of attorney section on Form Reg 262 be used for the odometer disclosure?

The power of attorney section on Form Reg 262 allows a vehicle or vessel owner to appoint an individual or a company as their attorney-in-fact to sign documents necessary for transferring ownership. However, it explicitly cannot be used for completing the odometer disclosure statement. This provision ensures the accuracy and integrity of the mileage disclosure during the ownership transfer. The odometer statement must be directly filled out and signed by the seller to guarantee that the mileage reported is accurate and to hold the seller personally accountable for its accuracy, thereby preventing possible fraud and protecting consumer rights.

Why are photocopies of the Form Reg 262 not accepted for official transactions?

The stipulation that photocopies of the Form Reg 262 are not accepted for official transactions underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity and authenticity of documents related to the transfer of vehicle or vessel ownership. This requirement ensures that all information provided during the transfer process is original, accurate, and has not been tampered with. It protects both the buyer and seller by providing a verifiable, original document that accurately reflects the transfer's terms, thereby minimizing the risk of fraud and legal discrepancies. In a domain as susceptible to deceptive practices as the sale and transfer of vehicles and vessels, original documents stand as a bastion against manipulation and forgery.

Common mistakes

Filling out forms required by the DMV can be daunting, especially the California Form REG 262, their Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form. Here are ten mistakes that are commonly made on this form, often complicating what should be a straightforward process.

Firstly, all signatures must be in ink, a detail that can be overlooked. Using a pencil, or even printing, then signing digitally, will invalidate the form. This traditional rule is strictly enforced, highlighting the importance of physical documentation in these transactions.

Another common error occurs in Section 1, the Vehicle/Vessel Description. Every detail from the Identification Number to the License Plate/CF No. must be filled out accurately. Mistypes here can lead to confusion over the vehicle’s identity, potentially complicating legal ownership or responses to recalls.

In Section 2, the Bill of Sale, accurately reporting the sale amount or clearly stating if the vehicle was a gift is crucial. Misreported figures or unclear gift declarations can affect tax implications and legal interpretations of the transfer.

The Odometer Disclosure Statement in Section 3 is another critical part of the form. Failing to report the mileage correctly, or altering it after the fact, can void the form and could lead to legal penalties. This is a federal requirement, not just a state one.

Ensuring that every required party signs in Section 4 is a must. Whether it's the buyer, seller, or both, missing signatures will render the form incomplete. This section’s requirement for the hand-printed name, date, and signature is often missed in the confusion of sale details.

Another mistake can be found in not accurately handling co-ownerships. If the vehicle is co-owned "AND" requires both parties to sign, a single signature won’t suffice. Conversely, understanding that if ownership is joined by "OR," only one party needs to sign can save time and frustration.

When it comes to the Power of Attorney in Section 5, failing to assign someone correctly if you're unable to carry out the transaction yourself can halt the entire process. This section cannot be completed by power of attorney for odometer disclosure, a fact often overlooked.

A common yet simple error occurs when people fail to use blue or black ink as required. Though it may seem trivial, documents can be rejected outright for this reason, leading to delays in what might be urgent transactions.

Not keeping a photocopy of the completed form is another oversight. While original documents are necessary for processing, having a photocopy can be crucial for personal records, especially if disputes arise later.

Lastly, not thoroughly reading the instructions or consulting the Car Buyer’s Bill of Rights and relevant brochures available on the DMV website can lead to misconceptions and mistakes not only in filling out Form REG 262 but also in understanding the rights and responsibilities entailed in vehicle transactions.

Addressing these common errors can streamline the process of transferring vehicle ownership, ensuring that both parties are protected and the transition is as smooth as possible. Given the legal implications of these documents, taking the time to review and complete them carefully is time well spent.

Documents used along the form

In the process of transferring vehicle ownership in California, the California Form Reg 262, also known as the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, serves as an essential document. However, it’s only a part of the documentation needed. Understanding other forms and documents, which often accompany Form Reg 262, can make the process smoother and more efficient.

  • Form REG 227, Application for Duplicate or Paperless Title: This form is used if the original title is lost, stolen, or damaged. It allows the owner to apply for a duplicate title, making it possible to transfer ownership without the original document.
  • Form REG 343, Application for Title or Registration: Used by individuals to apply for a new or used vehicle's title and registration. It's essential for the owner to fill out this form when they are bringing a vehicle into California from another state or country, or when buying or selling a vehicle privately.
  • Form REG 138, Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability: After selling or transferring a vehicle, this form should be submitted to the DMV to officially release the former owner from liability for what the new owner does with the vehicle. It is a crucial step in protecting the seller after the transaction.
  • Bill of Sale (REG 135): While the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form contains a section for the bill of sale, a separate Bill of Sale form can also be provided for additional detail. This document includes information about the seller, the buyer, and the sale price, serving as proof of the transaction.
  • Smog Certification: Required for most vehicles in California, this certification is proof that the vehicle has passed the required emissions testing. Certain sales and transfer situations may exempt a vehicle from needing a current certification, but often, it's a necessary document for the transfer.
  • Form REG 17, Statement of Facts: This form is utilized for various declarations regarding vehicle registration. For instance, if certain exemptions apply to the sale or transfer--like family transfers or smog exemption in some regions--this form will be necessary to document those details.

Each document has its own set of requirements and details that need to be accurately completed to ensure the ownership transfer process is valid and legal. Collectively, they serve to protect all parties involved in the transfer, clearly outline the vehicle's history and condition, and fulfill state regulatory requirements. Navigating through the specifics of each form and understanding its role can dramatically reduce any potential complications during the vehicle transfer process.

Similar forms

The Bill of Sale Form is fundamentally similar to the California Form Reg 262, particularly with its Section 2. This form legally documents the sale of an item, generally detailing the buyer, the seller, and essential information about the item sold such as price and date of sale. Like Form Reg 262, it offers a structured way to outline the transaction between two parties, ensuring there’s a record of the transfer of ownership which can serve various legal and tax purposes.

The Odometer Disclosure Statement, intertwined with Section 3 of Form Reg 262, serves a specific legal requirement by recording the mileage of a vehicle at the time of sale. This document is vital for preventing odometer fraud and ensuring the buyer is aware of the true condition of the vehicle. It shares the purpose of ensuring transparency in the sale process, a crucial aspect mirrored in the California Form Reg 262. Federal law necessitates this disclosure, highlighting its importance across transactions involving vehicles.

Power of Attorney Forms bear resemblance to Section 5 of Form Reg 262 in that they authorize an individual or entity to act on another's behalf under specific circumstances. For vehicle transactions, this could involve signing documents to transfer ownership or complete registration. Both documents legitimize someone other than the owner to make legal decisions about the property in question, streamlining processes that might otherwise require the direct involvement of the owner.

The Title Transfer Form, closely related to the entire concept of Form Reg 262, is crucial when the ownership of a vehicle changes hands. While Form Reg 262 facilitates this process as part of its function, a Title Transfer Form officially records the change of ownership with the relevant state agency. It includes detailed information about the vehicle, seller, and buyer, and is necessary for the buyer to re-register the vehicle in their name.

The Vehicle Registration Form, while primarily for registering a vehicle with a state's DMV for the first time or renewing an existing registration, shares commonalities with Form Reg 262 in the context of vehicle identification and owner information sections. Although its primary purpose differs, it similarly gathers detailed information about the vehicle and its legal owner, which is necessary for law enforcement and state record-keeping.

The Application for Duplicate Title is another document associated closely with the functions of Form Reg 262. When the original vehicle title is lost, mutilated, or destroyed, this form allows the owner to apply for a replacement title. Given that Form Reg 262 is also involved in the process of transferring and reassigning ownership, both forms play significant roles in the documentation and verification of vehicle ownership and legality.

The Dealer Reassignment Form, used by vehicle dealerships during the sale or trade of vehicles, parallels the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form (Form Reg 262) in functionality. This form is specifically designed for dealers to document the reassignment of a vehicle to a new owner when the original title has no space for assignment. It complements the Reg 262 by providing a structured method for dealers to record such transfers.

Lastly, the Gift Letter for Vehicle Transfer, related to the Bill of Sale section of Form Reg 262 where gifts are mentioned, is used when a vehicle is being transferred as a gift. Though not a sale in the traditional sense, this document provides a formal record of the transfer and the relationship between the giver and recipient, ensuring transparency and legality in the transaction, similar to how gifts are documented in Form Reg 262.

Dos and Don'ts

Understanding the California Form REG 262, or the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, is crucial for anyone involved in the transfer of a vehicle or vessel in California. This document plays a key role in documenting the sale and ensuring the legal transfer of ownership. Here are essential dos and don'ts to keep in mind when filling out this form:

  • Do ensure that all signatures are written in ink. The form strictly requires ink signatures to maintain the authenticity and prevent alterations.
  • Do complete every section thoroughly. Each part of the form asks for specific information ranging from vehicle identification to the details of the sale and odometer reading. Missing out on any section can invalidate the form.
  • Do accurately disclose the odometer reading. It's not just a legal requirement; it's also a crucial piece of information for the buyer. Ensure that the mileage reported is correct to the best of your knowledge.
  • Do provide clear and complete information about both the seller and the buyer, including names, addresses, and signatures. This information is vital for legal and contact purposes.
  • Don't leave the odometer disclosure section incomplete or make alterations. Any attempt to tamper with this information can void the document and lead to legal repercussions.
  • Don't use photocopies of the form for official transactions. The DMV requires the original form to process the transfer of ownership. Photocopies can be kept for personal records only.
  • Don't underestimate the power of attorney section. If you are acting on behalf of someone else, this section must be completed meticulously to ensure the transfer is lawful and binding.
  • Don't skip reading the instructions on the reverse side of the form. They offer important guidance on completing the form accurately and help avoid common mistakes.

Remember, the REG 262 is not just a formality. It's a critical document that protects the rights of both buyer and seller and ensures the smooth legal transfer of property. Taking the time to fill it out carefully and accurately reflects respect for the law and the transaction itself.

Misconceptions

Understanding the California Form REG 262, the Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form, can sometimes be confusing. Here are seven common misconceptions explained to help clarify its purpose and requirements.

  • Photocopies are acceptable: A common misunderstanding is that photocopies of the REG 262 form are acceptable for official transactions. The form clearly states that photocopies are not accepted. The original form must be used whenever a vehicle or vessel is being transferred or reassigned.

  • It serves as the ownership certificate: Some might think that Form REG 262 itself is the ownership certificate. However, it is not. This form must accompany the actual title or application for a duplicate title when ownership is being transferred.

  • Electronic signatures are permitted: All signatures on REG 262 must be in ink. There's a misconception that electronic signatures are allowed, but according to the form, this is not the case. Actual ink signatures are required for the form to be valid.

  • Odometer disclosure is optional: The form requires the seller to disclose the mileage of the vehicle/vessel at the time of sale. This is a federal and state requirement, not optional. Omitting this information or providing false statements can lead to penalties, including fines and/or imprisonment.

  • Any section can be completed by Power of Attorney (POA): While the form allows for a Power of Attorney to be used in signing the document, it specifically states that the odometer disclosure statement cannot be completed by POA. This distinction is important and often misunderstood.

  • Form is needed only for sales: The REG 262 form is not solely for selling vehicles or vessels. It's also required for gifting, as the section for the Bill of Sale includes options to indicate if the vehicle/vessel was a gift and to specify the relationship to the recipient.

  • It’s only for use with cars: Another common misconception is that this form is exclusively for cars. In reality, the REG 262 form is used for the transfer and reassignment of both vehicles and vessels, which means it’s applicable for boats and other watercraft, not just automobiles.

In summary, understanding these key points about the California Form REG 262 can help ensure that the transfer or reassignment of a vehicle or vessel is completed accurately and in compliance with the law.

Key takeaways

Here are key takeaways about filling out and using the California Form REG 262:

  • The form must be completed in ink; photocopies are not accepted. This helps maintain the integrity and legality of the document.
  • It is not the ownership certificate but must accompany the titling document or Application for Duplicate Title when submitting to DMV. This step is crucial for accurate processing of vehicle/vessel transfers.
  • Section 1 requires detailed vehicle or vessel information. Accurate details are essential for identification and processing of the transfer.
  • In Section 2, the bill of sale, the seller needs to identify the buyer or gift recipient, include the selling price or gift value, and the date of sale or gift. This section establishes the terms of the transfer.
  • The odometer disclosure statement in Section 3 must be filled out by the seller, disclosing the mileage at the time of sale. Altering this information may lead to legal consequences.
  • Both the buyer and the seller must hand print their names, date, and sign in Section 4 to acknowledge the information provided and the transfer of ownership. This mutual acknowledgement is key to the form’s legality.
  • Section 5 is used to appoint a power of attorney for completing vehicle or vessel transfer documents. However, this cannot be used for the odometer disclosure statement, underscoring its importance from a legal standpoint.
  • Photocopies of the completed form may be retained for personal records, offering both parties a record of the transaction and terms.
  • Understanding your rights, as mentioned in the Car Buyer's Bill of Rights and other DMV brochures, is encouraged before signing the form. This ensures both parties are well informed.

These points outline the critical aspects and formal requirements of the REG 262 form, guiding sellers and buyers through the vehicle or vessel transfer process in California.

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